There’s something undeniably satisfying about a plate of chicken fried rice. The blend of tender chicken, crispy rice, and a medley of vegetables, all brought together with the savory notes of soy sauce, is a culinary treat. But what if you could recreate this takeout favorite in your home using your Blackstone griddle? Let’s dive into creating the perfect chicken fried rice on the griddle.
The Allure of Fried Rice
Fried rice, a staple in many Asian cuisines, is a universal dish that often combines leftover rice, a mix of vegetables, and a protein source like chicken, shrimp, or even pork. It’s generally cooked in a wok or frying pan, but the Blackstone griddle offers a unique twist, ensuring even cooking and a lovely crispy texture.
Grilling Chicken on the Blackstone
Grilling chicken on the Blackstone is a snap. Opt for skinless, boneless chicken breasts or thighs, ensuring they remain juicy and tender. Keep in mind, chicken cooks quickly on the grill, so keep an eye on it. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure it’s cooked to perfection.
The Key to Perfect Fried Rice: Pre-cooked Rice
For the best results, use pre-cooked rice. Leftover rice has had time to dry out slightly and is perfect as it fries up nicely without becoming mushy.
Elevate Your Chicken Fried Rice: Unique Tips and Variations
- Infuse with Aromatics: Before adding your chicken, sauté a mixture of minced garlic, ginger, and shallots until aromatic. This aromatic triad will boost the overall flavor profile of your fried rice.
- Add a Splash of Wine: When your chicken is almost cooked, add a splash of Shaoxing wine or dry sherry. This will give the dish a more decadent flavor reminiscent of gourmet Asian restaurants.
- Play with Textures: Consider adding some crunchy elements like water chestnuts or roasted cashews. These not only add a lovely crunch but also introduce a new layer of flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Stir in some fresh cilantro or Thai basil before serving. The freshness of the herbs counters beautifully with the savory elements of the dish.
- Spice it Up: For those who like a hot kick, drizzle chili oil or sprinkle red pepper flakes for an added kick. Alternatively, a spoonful of sambal oelek (chili paste) can be incorporated for a spicy punch.
- Sweet Element: Add a touch of sweetness by including diced pineapples or mangoes. The fruity sweetness can balance the savory notes and make the dish even more tantalizing.
- Go Vegan: Replace chicken with firm tofu cubes or tempeh. These protein sources soak up the flavors beautifully and offer a delightful, meat-free alternative.
- Umami Boost: A dash of fish sauce or a sprinkle of dried seaweed can intensify the umami flavor, making your fried rice even more irresistible.
- Grain Variations: Apart from the usual white rice, consider using quinoa, farro, or barley. These grains offer a remarkable texture and added nutritional benefits.
- Seasonal Veggies: Swap out the peas and carrots for seasonal vegetables. Think asparagus in spring, bell peppers in summer, or even roasted pumpkin in the fall.
Blackstone Griddle Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Ready to transform that Blackstone Griddle into a fried rice fiesta? Dive into our Chicken Fried Rice Recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 Chicken Breasts, Boneless (diced into 1-inch pieces)
- 2 Tbsp of sesame oil
- 2 Tbsp of vegetable oil
- 4 1/2 cups cooked rice, cooled
- 2 1/2 Tbsp of soy sauce
- salt and pepper, to your liking
- 1 cup of frozen peas and diced carrots blend
- 4 eggs light beaten
Instructions
- Preheat the Griddle: Set your Blackstone griddle to medium-low heat, aiming for around 350F.
- Cook the Chicken: Spread vegetable oil on the griddle. Add the diced chicken and sauté until fully cooked, roughly 4-6 minutes. Move the chicken to a cooler section of the griddle.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Introduce the peas and carrots mix, cooking until they soften.
- Scramble the Eggs: Push the veggies aside and scramble the eggs on the griddle.
- Combine and Season: Add the cooked rice, drizzling with sesame oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well-mixed and the rice gets a slight crisp.
- Serve and Relish: Once everything is heated through and combined, serve your delicious homemade chicken fried rice immediately.
Made some of our Blackstone Griddle chicken fried rice and loved it? Give that image below a pin, and let your Pinterest feed drool a bit! 🙂
Tips for the Perfect Fried Rice:
Garnish: Enhance the dish with sliced green onions before serving.
Oil Variations: Swap vegetable oil with avocado, canola, or coconut oil.
Rice Advice: Cold, leftover rice works best. For a healthier twist, consider using brown rice, jasmine rice, or even cauliflower rice.
Protein Variations: Feel free to replace your chicken with salmon, shrimp, or pork
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free soy sauce.
Low-Carb Option: Substitute regular rice with cauliflower rice.
Storing and Reheating:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. To reheat, microwave or toss it back on the griddle for a few minutes.
More Delicious Blackstone Griddle Recipes
Blackstone Griddle Chicken Thighs
Blackstone Griddle Chicken Wings
Blackstone Griddle T-bone Steak
Blackstone Griddle Juicy Smash Burger
Blackstone Griddle Eggs in a Basket
The Blackstone Advantage:
The Blackstone griddle, with its high heat and expansive cooking surface, is perfect for dishes like fried rice. Whether you’re serving a large family or entertaining guests, the griddle ensures consistent heating and impeccable flavor.
Now that you’re trained with the knowledge and recipe, it’s time to bring the flavors of your favorite takeout to your backyard. Happy grilling!
