Combination Fried Rice
A classic take-out favorite made right at home! This dish is loaded with tender chicken, juicy shrimp, savory BBQ pork, and colorful veggies, all stir-fried with fluffy day-old rice and a savory soy sauce blend. A complete meal in one wok, ready in under 30 minutes.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 15 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preparation (10 minutes)
- b.Ensure all proteins and vegetables are chopped and ready. Pat the chicken and shrimp dry with paper towels.
- c.In a small bowl, lightly beat the eggs.
- d.In another small bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, and white pepper to create the sauce mixture. Set aside.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook Eggs and Proteins (5-7 minutes)
- b.Heat a large wok or skillet over high heat until it just begins to smoke. Add 1 tbsp of vegetable oil and swirl to coat.
- c.Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble for 30-60 seconds until just set. Remove from the wok and set aside.
- d.Add another 1 tbsp of oil to the wok. Add the chicken and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- e.Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes until pink and opaque. Add the diced char siu and toss for 30 seconds to heat through. Remove all proteins and set aside with the eggs.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables (3-4 minutes)
- b.Add the final 1 tbsp of oil to the hot wok.
- c.Add the diced onion and the white parts of the scallions. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until softened and translucent.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- e.Toss in the thawed peas and carrots and stir-fry for 1 minute until heated through.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Combine and Finish (4-5 minutes)
- b.Add the chilled, day-old rice to the wok. Use your spatula to press and break up any clumps. Toss continuously for 2-3 minutes, ensuring each grain is separated and heated.
- c.Return the cooked proteins (chicken, shrimp, char siu) and scrambled egg to the wok.
- d.Pour the prepared soy sauce mixture over everything. Add the salt.
- e.Toss vigorously for 2 minutes to combine everything evenly and coat the rice in the sauce.
- f.Turn off the heat. Stir in the green parts of the scallions and the toasted sesame oil.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Serve
- b.Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use cold, day-old rice. Fresh rice is too moist and will lead to a mushy texture. Spreading freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and chilling it for a few hours can work in a pinch.
- 2A very hot wok is key to achieving the signature 'wok hei' (breath of the wok) smoky flavor. Don't be afraid to turn up the heat.
- 3Have all ingredients prepped and within arm's reach before you start cooking. Stir-frying is a very fast process.
- 4Cook ingredients in batches. Overcrowding the wok will steam the food instead of frying it, preventing proper browning and flavor development.
- 5Add the sesame oil at the very end, off the heat. Its delicate, nutty flavor is volatile and can be destroyed by high cooking temperatures.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian
Omit all meats and substitute with firm tofu (pressed and cubed), edamame, and additional vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or bean sprouts.
SpicySpicy
Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili garlic sauce or a few chopped Thai chilies along with the garlic for a spicy kick.
Seafood SpecialSeafood Special
Replace the chicken and char siu with other seafood like scallops, calamari, or chunks of firm white fish.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Complete Protein
Combining chicken, shrimp, pork, and eggs provides a rich source of high-quality, complete protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
Energy Boosting Carbohydrates
The rice base offers easily digestible carbohydrates, providing a quick and efficient source of energy to fuel your body and brain.
Source of Vitamins and Minerals
Vegetables like peas, carrots, onions, and scallions contribute essential vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium, which support vision, immunity, and heart health.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this Combination Fried Rice contains approximately 800-850 calories, primarily from the rice, proteins, and cooking oil. The exact number can vary based on the specific ingredients used, especially the fat content of the char siu.