PF Changs Fried Rice: Recipe, Ingredients, and Easy Steps

PF Changs Fried Rice, that iconic dish of perfectly seasoned rice, tender vegetables, and savory protein, is a culinary masterpiece that has captivated taste buds for years. Have you ever craved that restaurant-quality fried rice but wanted to enjoy it in the comfort of your own home? Well, you’re in luck! I’m going to show you how to recreate this beloved dish with a simple and delicious recipe.

Fried rice, in general, has a rich history rooted in Chinese cuisine, dating back centuries as a resourceful way to use leftover rice and ingredients. It’s a testament to the ingenuity of transforming simple components into a flavorful and satisfying meal. While PF Chang’s version is a modern interpretation, it pays homage to these traditional techniques with its balanced flavors and textures.

What makes PF Changs Fried Rice so irresistible? It’s the harmonious blend of fluffy rice, crisp vegetables, and savory sauce that creates an explosion of flavor in every bite. The slight sweetness, the umami depth, and the satisfying texture make it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can customize it with your favorite proteins and vegetables, making it a convenient and adaptable dish for any occasion. Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure and learn how to make this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

• For the Rice:
• 3 cups cooked long-grain rice, preferably day-old and chilled (this is crucial for the right texture!)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, divided
• 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix, thawed
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced, white and green parts separated
• For the Protein (Choose one or a combination):
• 8 ounces cooked chicken breast, diced
• 8 ounces cooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 ounces cooked pork tenderloin, diced
• 8 ounces firm tofu, pressed and diced
• For the Sauce:
• 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but adds great depth of flavor)
• 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce (for color, optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon white pepper (or black pepper)
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon water
• Optional Garnishes:
• Sesame seeds
• Red pepper flakes
• Extra green onions, sliced

Preparing the Sauce:

First things first, let’s get that delicious sauce ready. This is what really brings the whole dish together, so don’t skip this step!

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), dark soy sauce (if using), sesame oil, ground ginger, garlic powder, white pepper, sugar, and water. Make sure everything is well combined. Give it a taste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. Maybe you want a little more ginger, or a touch more sweetness – go for it!
2. Set the sauce aside. We’ll use it later when we’re stir-frying everything together.

Cooking the Fried Rice:

Now for the main event! We’re going to build layers of flavor, starting with the aromatics and then adding the veggies and protein.

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Make sure the wok is nice and hot before you add anything. You want to hear that sizzle!
2. Add the diced yellow onion and the white parts of the green onions to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until the onion is softened and fragrant. Don’t let it brown too much.
3. Add the thawed peas and carrots mix to the wok. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until they are heated through.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the wok. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the empty side.
5. Pour the lightly beaten eggs into the empty side of the wok. Let them cook for a few seconds, then scramble them with a spatula until they are cooked through. Break the eggs into small pieces.
6. Now, combine the scrambled eggs with the vegetables in the wok.
7. Add your choice of protein (chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu) to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until the protein is heated through. If you’re using tofu, make sure it gets a little crispy on the edges.
8. Add the cooked, chilled rice to the wok. Break up any clumps of rice with your spatula. This is where using day-old rice really makes a difference – it won’t get mushy!
9. Pour the prepared sauce over the rice and protein mixture. Stir-fry everything together, making sure the sauce is evenly distributed and coats all the ingredients. Continue to stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, until the rice is heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
10. Taste the fried rice and adjust the seasonings if needed. Maybe it needs a little more soy sauce, or a pinch of salt.

Serving and Garnishing:

Almost there! Now it’s time to plate up your delicious homemade fried rice and add those finishing touches.

1. Remove the fried rice from the wok and divide it among serving plates.
2. Garnish with the sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips for Perfect Fried Rice:

• Use Day-Old Rice: This is the most important tip! Day-old rice has less moisture, which prevents it from becoming mushy when stir-fried.
• High Heat is Key: Use a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat to get that signature fried rice texture.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Wok: If you’re making a large batch, cook the fried rice in batches to avoid overcrowding the wok, which can lower the temperature and result in soggy rice.
• Prepare Your Ingredients in Advance: Have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. This will make the cooking process much smoother and faster.
• Adjust the Seasonings to Your Liking: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the seasonings to create your perfect fried rice.
• Get Creative with the Protein: Feel free to use any protein you like in your fried rice. Leftover roast chicken, ham, or even sausage would work well.
• Add More Vegetables: You can also add other vegetables to your fried rice, such as broccoli florets, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
• Make it Vegetarian/Vegan: Omit the oyster sauce and use tofu as your protein to make this dish vegetarian or vegan.

Variations:

• Spicy Fried Rice: Add a tablespoon of chili garlic sauce or sriracha to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Pineapple Fried Rice: Add 1 cup of diced pineapple to the wok along with the vegetables.
• Kimchi Fried Rice: Add 1 cup of chopped kimchi to the wok along with the rice.
• Shrimp Fried Rice: Use only shrimp as the protein.
• Chicken Fried Rice: Use only chicken as the protein.
• Pork Fried Rice: Use only pork as the protein.
• Vegetable Fried Rice: Omit the protein and add more vegetables.

Storing Leftovers:

Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

Why This Recipe Works:

This recipe is designed to mimic the flavors and textures of PF Chang’s fried rice, but with a homemade touch. The use of day-old rice, high heat, and a flavorful sauce are key to achieving that authentic taste. The recipe is also customizable, so you can adjust the ingredients and seasonings to your liking.

Troubleshooting:

• Rice is Mushy: Make sure you’re using day-old rice and not overcrowding the wok.
• Fried Rice is Bland: Adjust the seasonings in the sauce to your liking. You may need to add more soy sauce, ginger, or garlic.
• Protein is Dry: Don’t overcook the protein. Add it to the wok towards the end of the cooking process.
• Vegetables are Soggy: Make sure you’re using thawed frozen vegetables and not overcrowding the wok.

Nutritional Information (Approximate):

(Based on chicken fried rice, per serving)

• Calories: 400-500
• Protein: 25-35g
• Fat: 15-25g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Enjoy your homemade PF Chang’s style fried rice!

Conclusion:

Okay, friends, let’s recap why you absolutely need to make this PF Chang’s Fried Rice recipe. Seriously, clear your schedule, put on some tunes, and get ready for a flavor explosion! This isn’t just another fried rice recipe; it’s a culinary adventure that brings the restaurant experience right into your kitchen. We’ve meticulously crafted this recipe to capture the authentic taste and texture of PF Chang’s beloved dish, ensuring that every bite is packed with savory goodness. What makes this recipe a must-try? First, the depth of flavor is incredible. The combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic creates a symphony of tastes that will tantalize your taste buds. Second, the texture is spot on. The perfectly cooked rice, the tender vegetables, and the succulent protein (whether you choose chicken, shrimp, or tofu) all come together to create a satisfying and delightful mouthfeel. Third, it’s surprisingly easy to make! While it might seem intimidating at first, our step-by-step instructions and helpful tips will guide you through the process, making you a fried rice pro in no time. But the best part? You can customize it to your heart’s content! Feeling adventurous? Add some diced pineapple for a sweet and tangy twist. Want to kick up the heat? A dash of sriracha or chili flakes will do the trick. Vegetarian? Simply omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli. The possibilities are endless! Here are a few serving suggestions to elevate your PF Chang’s Fried Rice experience: * Serve it as a main course with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad. * Pair it with your favorite Asian-inspired appetizers, such as spring rolls or potstickers. * Use it as a base for a delicious and satisfying bowl meal, topped with a fried egg and some chopped green onions. * For a truly authentic experience, serve it in a traditional Chinese takeout container. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own! That’s the beauty of cooking – it’s all about creativity and having fun. I truly believe that this PF Chang’s Fried Rice recipe will become a staple in your household. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or any time you’re craving a delicious and satisfying meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress your family and friends. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your wok (or a large skillet), gather your ingredients, and get cooking! I’m confident that you’ll be amazed at how easy and delicious this recipe is. And now, for the most important part: I want to hear about your experience! Did you try the recipe? What did you think? Did you make any modifications? Share your thoughts, photos, and tips in the comments below. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Let’s build a community of fried rice enthusiasts! Remember, cooking should be enjoyable, so relax, have fun, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. The most important thing is to create something delicious that you and your loved ones will enjoy. Happy cooking, and I hope you love this PF Chang’s Fried Rice as much as I do! I’m excited to see what you create! Print