Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice 

Introduction

If you’re craving something savory, smoky, and incredibly satisfying, Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice might just become your new weeknight hero. Imagine fluffy rice tossed in a hot pan with juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and a burst of umami flavor in every bite—comfort food at its absolute best. This dish is the kind of recipe that makes everyone hover around the stove, sneaking bites before it even hits the table.

Fun fact: fried rice was originally created as a clever way to use leftovers, but over time it’s become a beloved dish on its own. Adding bacon? That’s a modern twist that turns a simple classic into something downright irresistible. What makes this Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice truly special is how quick, budget-friendly, and family-approved it is. You can have dinner on the table in under 30 minutes, using ingredients you probably already have in your fridge.

Compared to our popular Chicken Stir-Fry with Vegetables, this recipe feels heartier and more indulgent thanks to the smoky bacon and rich seasoning, yet it’s just as easy to make. Whether you’re feeding picky eaters, meal-prepping for the week, or just want something cozy after a long day, this recipe delivers every time. Grab your pan—this is one dish you’ll be excited to cook and even happier to eat.

What Is Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice?

So, what exactly is Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice? Is it breakfast? Is it dinner? Is it a brilliant excuse to put bacon in everything? Yes—yes to all of that. At its core, it’s a flavor-packed fried rice dish where tender chicken meets crispy bacon, all wrapped up in warm, seasoned rice. Why the name? Because sometimes the best recipes don’t need fancy titles—they just tell you exactly what deliciousness you’re getting.

Legend has it this dish was born from someone staring into their fridge thinking, “I have chicken, bacon, and rice… now what?” And honestly, that’s how some of the greatest meals are created. After all, the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and bacon certainly helps speed things up. Ready to see what the hype is about? Let’s get cooking.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

First, the highlight: the unbeatable combination of smoky bacon and juicy chicken. The bacon fat coats the rice, giving it a deep, savory flavor that takeout just can’t match.

Second, it saves you money. Making Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice at home costs a fraction of what you’d pay at a restaurant, and it’s a fantastic way to use leftover rice and cooked chicken without wasting a thing.

Third, the ingredients bring serious flavor. Garlic, soy sauce, eggs, and green onions work together to create layers of taste and texture—crispy, soft, salty, and comforting all at once.

If you enjoyed our Egg Fried Rice, this version takes things up a notch with extra protein and richness. Try it once, and you’ll want to make it part of your regular rotation—so grab your skillet and give it a go tonight.

How to Make Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

Quick Overview

This Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice is easy, fast, and deeply satisfying. Everything cooks in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. The dish is packed with bold flavors, a slightly crispy texture, and plenty of protein. From start to finish, you’re looking at about 25–30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Key Ingredients for Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, cold rice)

• 1 cup chicken breast, diced into small pieces

• 4 strips bacon, chopped

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ cup frozen peas and carrots (optional but recommended)

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)

• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for extra depth)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or use bacon fat)

• 2 green onions, sliced

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the bacon
   Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5–7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the fat in the pan.

2. Cook the chicken
   Increase heat to medium-high. Add the diced chicken directly into the bacon fat. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is golden and fully cooked.

3. Add garlic and vegetables
   Stir in the minced garlic and frozen peas and carrots. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and heated through.

4. Scramble the eggs
   Push everything to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and gently scramble until just set, then mix them into the chicken.

5. Add the rice
   Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir well so the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors.

6. Season the fried rice
   Drizzle in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, letting the rice get slightly crispy at the bottom.

7. Finish with bacon and green onions
   Add the cooked bacon back into the pan along with the sliced green onions. Toss everything together, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed.

8. Serve hot
   Remove from heat and serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

What to Serve Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice With

This dish is hearty on its own, but it pairs beautifully with:

• A light cucumber salad for freshness

• Steamed or roasted broccoli for balance

• Spring rolls or egg rolls for a takeout-style meal

• Iced green tea or lemonade to cleanse the palate

These sides complement the richness without overpowering the main dish.

Top Tips for Perfecting Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice

• Use cold, day-old rice. Fresh rice can turn mushy, while cold rice fries up perfectly.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Too much at once can steam the rice instead of frying it.

• Swap proteins if needed. Leftover rotisserie chicken or turkey works great.

• Control the salt. Bacon and soy sauce are salty—taste before adding more.

• Add heat if you like spice. A dash of chili oil or sriracha goes a long way.

Avoid rushing the process—letting the rice sit briefly in the pan creates that irresistible crispy texture.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Storing:
Let the Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing:
Yes, it freezes well! Place portions in freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating:
For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a small splash of water or oil to revive the texture. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly.

This Chicken and Bacon Fried Rice is proof that simple ingredients can create something truly memorable. Try it once, and it just might become your new favorite comfort meal. 🍚🥓