Simple Chilli Crisp Fried Rice Recipe

There is something undeniably satisfying about a bowl of fried rice that’s bursting with flavor and texture, and this Simple Chilli Crisp Fried Rice Recipe hits all those notes perfectly. Packed with the spicy crunch of chili crisp, fresh vegetables, and the comforting chew of day-old rice, each bite delivers a delightful contrast of heat, crispness, and savory depth. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends with a vibrant, flavorful dish, this recipe is a total game changer that’s both approachable and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Simple Chilli Crisp Fried Rice Recipe lies in its simplicity—the ingredients are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor and that perfect fried rice texture. These pantry staples come together quickly, turning everyday items into something truly special.

• 3 cups Cooked Rice: Using day-old rice is key for achieving that perfect, non-mushy texture.
• 3-4 tablespoons Chili Crisp: The star of the dish, this adds spicy crunch and aromatic depth.
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil: Ideal for stir-frying without overpowering the other flavors.
• 2-3 cloves Garlic: Minced for a punch of fragrant warmth.
• 2-3 Green Onions: Both white and green parts chopped, bringing freshness and a subtle bite.
• 1 cup Mixed Vegetables: Small diced peas, carrots, and bell peppers provide color and a sweet crispness.
• Salt: To taste, enhances all the natural flavors.
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground for mild heat and slight earthiness.
• 1 cup Optional Protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu add heartiness and extra flavor.

How to Make Simple Chilli Crisp Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients and prepping them thoughtfully. Make sure your rice is cold and separated into grains for frying—this step is crucial to get that irresistible bite and avoid any clumping.

Step 2: Heat the Oil

Warm up 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. When the oil is shimmering and ready, it sets the stage for perfectly crisped rice and sautéed veggies.

Step 3: Sauté the Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and stir quickly to avoid burning. Cook it just until fragrant—about 30 seconds—so it releases its rich aroma that builds the base flavor.

Step 4: Add the Green Onions

Next, toss in the chopped green onions, but reserve a small bit for garnish later. Let them sauté for a minute, softening just enough to bring out their sweet and sharp notes.

Step 5: Cook the Mixed Vegetables

Pour in your diced mixed vegetables and stir for 3 to 4 minutes until they become tender but still retain a bit of their crunch, contributing essential texture and vibrant color.

Step 6: Add the Rice

Push the vegetables to one side of your skillet and add more oil if necessary. Then add the cold cooked rice, breaking up any clumps with your spatula for even cooking and that classic fried rice texture.

Step 7: Crisp the Rice

Let the rice fry undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes, allowing the bottom layer to get crispy and golden. This little wait rewards you with that delightful contrast of textures.

Step 8: Combine and Spice it Up

Stir the vegetables back into the rice and add your chili crisp. Mix everything thoroughly so every grain and veggie is coated in that irresistible chili-infused crunch.

Step 9: Season to Taste

Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper throughout the dish, adjusting as you go. This fine-tuning is what brings all the ingredients into perfect harmony.

Step 10: Add Protein (Optional)

If you’re including your choice of protein—whether chicken, shrimp, or tofu—fold it in now and heat everything together for a minute or two until hot and blended.

Step 11: Final Touch and Serve

Remove your skillet from the heat, sprinkle on the reserved green onions, and get ready to dig into this spectacular Simple Chilli Crisp Fried Rice Recipe!

How to Serve Simple Chilli Crisp Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh green onions adds a touch of color and well-rounded flavor, but feel free to add a handful of toasted sesame seeds or even a drizzle of extra chili crisp to amplify the crunch and spice. These finishing touches elevate the presentation and the overall experience.

Side Dishes

This fried rice shines on its own, but pairing it with simple sides like steamed dumplings, a crisp cucumber salad, or even stir-fried greens balances the meal perfectly and adds an exciting variety of textures and flavors to your dinner table.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the fried rice wrapped in crisp lettuce cups or stuff it into bell pepper halves for a colorful, appetizing presentation that looks even more inviting. This recipe also works wonderfully as a filling for savory turnovers or as a base for a burrito-style bowl.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Simple Chilli Crisp Fried Rice Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making next-day meals just as tasty.

Freezing

If you want to stash some for later, freeze the fried rice in a zip-top bag or freezer-safe container for up to a month. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing to maintain the best texture and flavor.

Reheating

To bring your fried rice back to life, reheat it in a hot skillet with a splash of oil, stirring often to prevent sticking and to refresh the crispiness. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep that coveted texture intact.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

Freshly cooked rice tends to be too soft and moist, which can make the fried rice mushy. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out to cool and dry slightly before frying to help mimic day-old rice texture.

What exactly is chili crisp?

Chili crisp is a flavorful condiment made from chili peppers, oil, and crunchy bits like fried garlic or shallots. It adds both heat and crunch, which is what gives this fried rice its unforgettable character.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Simply skip the protein or use tofu, and check your chili crisp to ensure it is vegan-friendly. The vegetables and chili crisp provide plenty of flavor on their own.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on how much chili crisp you use. You can adjust the amount based on your tolerance, making it as mild or as fiery as you like.

What can I substitute for vegetable oil?

Any neutral-flavored oil like canola, sunflower, or light olive oil works great for frying the rice without overpowering the other flavors.

Final Thoughts

This Simple Chilli Crisp Fried Rice Recipe is a fantastic crowd-pleaser with its perfect balance of crunch, spice, and savory goodness. Once you try it, you’ll see just how easy it is to create a flavorful, satisfying meal from simple ingredients. I encourage you to dive in, make it your own with your favorite proteins or veggies, and enjoy every comforting bite!

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