There’s nothing quite like a steaming plate of chicken fried rice cooked to perfection. Now, imagine that, but on a Blackstone griddle. It’s smoky, flavorful, and loaded with crispy bits you can’t replicate in a regular pan. Whether hosting a backyard barbecue or simply spicing up weeknight dinners, chicken fried rice on a Blackstone is a guaranteed hit.
In this article, we’re diving into everything you need to know—including prep tips, ingredient hacks, and, most importantly, why your grill truly stands out as the real MVP of this dish.
Why Chicken Fried Rice Is Perfect for a Blackstone
First things first, why the Blackstone? Well, it’s simple: the flat-top surface is a game-changer. Unlike a standard frying pan, the Blackstone griddle allows you to spread your ingredients so everything cooks evenly. Plus, it adds that smoky, grilled flavor that screams restaurant quality.
But beyond that, the Blackstone lets you cook big batches at once. Got a crowd to feed? No problem. Want leftovers for lunch? Done and done.
For more quick and versatile recipes, try this 4 Ingredient Chicken Salad.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you fire up the grill, talk about what you’ll need. The beauty of chicken fried rice is its flexibility. You can mix and match ingredients based on what’s in your fridge. That said, here’s a classic lineup:
The Essentials
- Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work great. Thighs are juicier, but breasts are leaner—your call.
- Rice: Day-old, cold rice is key. Freshly cooked rice gets mushy on the grill, so plan ahead and make it the night before.
- Eggs: Scrambled eggs add that classic fried rice vibe.
- Vegetables: Think peas, carrots, green onions, and maybe even some diced onions for a little crunch.
- Soy Sauce: The star seasoning. It’s salty and savory and ties everything together.
- Garlic and Ginger: Fresh is best, but powder works in a pinch.
- Sesame Oil: Just a drizzle for that nutty, aromatic finish.
- Optional Extras: Got leftovers like bacon, shrimp, or veggies? Toss them in!
Prep Work: Setting Yourself Up for Success
Before you even think about turning on the Blackstone, spend a few minutes prepping. Trust me, this step makes everything smoother later on.
- Chop Everything in Advance
- Dice the chicken, mince the garlic and ginger, and chop your veggies. Having everything ready means you’re not scrambling while the grill’s hot.
- Cook the Rice Ahead of Time
- As I mentioned earlier, cold rice is non-negotiable. Make it the night before and stick it in the fridge. If you forgot (hey, it happens), spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and pop it in the freezer for 20-30 minutes.
- Organize Your Ingredients
- This might sound overly organized, but grouping your ingredients in bowls or on a tray makes life easier. Think of it like a cooking show—everything in its place so you can focus on the fun part.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Fried Rice on a Blackstone
Now, let’s get to the good stuff: cooking!
Preheat the Blackstone
Start by preheating your Blackstone griddle on medium-high heat. You want it hot—like, sizzle-when-it-hits hot. While it’s heating, drizzle a bit of oil (vegetable or canola) across the surface.
Cook the Chicken
Toss the diced chicken onto the griddle, seasoning it with a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it cook for about 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Once done, push it to one side of the griddle.
Scramble the Eggs
Crack your eggs directly onto the griddle, scrambling them with a spatula. They’ll cook quickly, so keep an eye on them. Once set, mix them into the chicken.
Add the Veggies
Next, throw your veggies onto the griddle. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they’re slightly tender but still have some crunch. Pro tip: if you’re using frozen veggies, thaw them beforehand to avoid excess water.
Toss in the Rice
Spread your cold rice across the griddle, breaking up any clumps with your spatula. This is where the magic happens! Let the rice sit for a minute or two before stirring—this gives it a slightly crispy texture.
Season It All
Drizzle soy sauce and a touch of sesame oil over the rice, chicken, eggs, and veggies. Toss everything together until it’s well combined and coated in that rich, savory sauce.
Finish with Garnishes
Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for a fresh pop of flavor, adding a vibrant finishing touch. Additionally, if you’re feeling a bit fancy, sesame seeds can be a delightful addition to elevate the presentation and taste.
Pro Tips for Chicken Fried Rice Blackstone Success
- Use Two Spatulas Seriously, this makes flipping and mixing so much easier. You’ll feel like a pro hibachi chef in no time.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Griddle Even though the Blackstone has a lot of space, try to fill it sparingly. Keeping everything spread out ensures even cooking.
- Let the Rice Sit For crispy bits (the best part, let’s be honest), let the rice sit undisturbed for a minute or two before flipping.
- Adjust Heat as Needed If things are cooking too quickly, feel free to lower the heat. It’s better to take your time than to end up with burnt rice.
Why Chicken Fried Rice Blackstone is a Crowd-Pleaser
Here’s the thing: chicken fried rice is incredibly versatile, making it a perfect choice for just about any occasion. Not only is it great for picky eaters, but it’s also packed with protein and veggies, so it’s both delicious and nutritious. Moreover, it works equally well as a satisfying main dish or a tasty side. On top of that, cooking it on a Blackstone griddle means there’s less cleanup afterward—and honestly, who wouldn’t love that?
And if you’re looking for variations, you can easily swap the chicken for shrimp, steak, or tofu. You can also play around with flavors—try adding teriyaki sauce, chili garlic sauce, or even pineapple for a sweet twist.
Perfect Side Dishes to Serve with Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is already a complete meal, but pairing it with the right sides can take your dinner to the next level. Here are a few crowd-pleasing options:
Egg Rolls
Crispy on the outside and packed with savory fillings, egg rolls are a classic companion. They add crunch and a burst of flavor to balance the softness of fried rice.
Asian Cucumber Salad
A refreshing cucumber salad with rice vinegar, sesame oil, and a sprinkle of chili flakes is the perfect contrast to the rich, savory fried rice.
Miso Soup
This light, umami-packed soup is great for rounding out the meal without making it too heavy.
Steamed Dumplings
Soft, juicy dumplings filled with pork, chicken, or veggies are an absolute treat. Pair them with soy sauce or chili oil for dipping.
Stir-Fried Vegetables
Boost your veggie intake with a side of stir-fried broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy. The fresh crunch and light seasoning complement fried rice beautifully.
Pair your fried rice with some of these side dishes for chicken salad for a well-rounded meal.
Top Tips for Perfect Chicken Fried Rice Blackstone Every Time
Want to make your chicken fried rice even better? Here are some game-changing tips:
Use Day-Old Rice
Cold, leftover rice is drier, which helps it fry better without getting mushy if you’re short on time; cool freshly cooked rice in the fridge or freezer before cooking.
Don’t Skip the Oil
A little oil truly goes a long way in creating that signature fried rice texture we all love. For the best results, opt for vegetable oil or sesame oil, as they not only prevent sticking but also enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Cook in Batches
Overcrowding the griddle or pan can make your rice steam instead of fry. Keep ingredients spread out for even cooking.
Adjust Seasoning Last
When adding soy sauce, sesame oil, and other seasonings, it’s best to do so gradually. This allows you to control the flavors and ensure everything is well-balanced. Be sure to taste as you go to avoid over-salting and get the perfect seasoning every time.
FAQs About Chicken Fried Rice Blackstone
What Are Some Interesting Facts About Fried Rice?
- Fried rice originated in China over 1,500 years ago as a way to use up leftovers.
- Many cultures have their own versions, like Indonesia’s Nasi Goreng and Thailand’s Khao Pad.
- The smoky flavor of restaurant fried rice, called “wok hei,” comes from cooking over high heat.
What Culture Is Chicken Fried Rice From?
Chicken fried rice has its roots in Chinese cuisine, where the original fried rice dish began. Over time, it was adapted globally, with chicken emerging as a favorite protein in both Western and various Asian versions of the dish.
Why Can’t You Eat Leftover Fried Rice?
Leftover fried rice is safe if stored and reheated correctly. Cooked rice left at room temperature can grow Bacillus cereus, so refrigerate it quickly and reheat it to steaming hot before eating.
Why Put Eggs in Fried Rice?
Eggs not only bring rich flavor and a fluffy texture to fried rice but also pack a punch of protein, making the dish even more satisfying. Furthermore, they’re a staple in many traditional recipes, so leaving them out just wouldn’t feel right!
Wrapping It Up
There, you have everything you need to make the perfect chicken fried rice on a Blackstone. Whether it’s your first time firing the grill or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe is a guaranteed hit. And honestly, once you try it, you’ll never return to making fried rice on the stovetop.And if you’re a fan of bold flavors, you’ll love this Marry Me Chicken recipe for your next meal.
So, grab your spatulas, fire up that Blackstone, and get ready to wow your taste buds. Trust me, your family (and your stomach) will thank you.
What’s your favorite fried rice addition? Let me know—I’m always looking for new ideas!