The 10 Best Types of Rice for Chicken Fried Rice

As a lover of chicken fried rice, I’ve always believed that the perfect rice can make all the difference in this classic dish.

So, imagine a world where every grain of rice dances with the flavors of tender chicken, fragrant spices, and crispy vegetables.

Well, my friends, I’m here to guide you through the top 10 types of rice that will elevate your chicken fried rice to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Get ready to embark on a culinary adventure like no other!

Basmati Rice

If you want your chicken fried rice to have a fragrant and fluffy texture, you should use basmati rice.

Basmati rice is my go-to choice when making this dish because of its unique qualities. The long grains of basmati rice have a delicate aroma that adds a wonderful fragrance to the dish. When cooked, the rice becomes light and fluffy, creating a perfect base for the chicken and other ingredients.

It also has a slightly nutty flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish. The grains remain separate and don’t clump together, ensuring a beautiful presentation.

Using basmati rice truly elevates the chicken fried rice to another level, making it a favorite among my family and friends.

Jasmine Rice

When making jasmine rice for your chicken fried rice, make sure to rinse it thoroughly before cooking. Rinsing the rice helps remove any excess starch, resulting in a lighter and fluffier texture.

To rinse jasmine rice, place it in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water until the water runs clear. Once rinsed, add the rice and water to a pot in a 1:1.5 ratio and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.

Fluff the rice with a fork and let it cool before using it in your delicious chicken fried rice recipe.

Arborio Rice

Arborio rice is commonly used to make creamy risotto dishes. I love using Arborio rice when I want to create a rich and velvety texture in my risotto.

This short-grain rice has a high starch content, which gives the dish its signature creaminess. When cooked, the grains of Arborio rice become tender and plump, while still maintaining a slight bite in the center. This makes it perfect for absorbing the flavors of the broth and other ingredients.

Whether I’m making a classic mushroom risotto or experimenting with different flavors like asparagus or seafood, Arborio rice always delivers a satisfying and indulgent dish. Its versatility and ability to create a creamy texture make it a staple in my kitchen for risotto recipes.

Brown Rice

To make a healthier choice, you should consider using brown rice as a nutritious alternative to white rice. Brown rice is a whole grain that retains its bran and germ, unlike white rice which has been stripped of these nutritious components. As a result, brown rice is packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are beneficial for our bodies.

It has a nutty flavor and a slightly chewy texture, adding a pleasant taste to any dish. Brown rice is also a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy throughout the day. Additionally, it has a lower glycemic index compared to white rice, making it a better option for managing blood sugar levels.

Sticky Rice

You’ll love the sticky texture of glutinous rice, which makes it perfect for creating delicious desserts and traditional Asian dishes. As someone who enjoys experimenting with different ingredients in the kitchen, I can’t help but be fascinated by the versatility of sticky rice.

It has a unique ability to bind ingredients together, giving dishes a satisfying chewiness that is hard to resist. Whether I’m making sticky rice pudding with coconut milk and mangoes or crafting homemade sushi rolls, this type of rice never fails to deliver a delightful eating experience.

Its stickiness also allows it to be easily molded into various shapes, making it a fun ingredient to work with. With its delicious taste and delightful texture, sticky rice has become a staple in my pantry, and I’m always excited to explore new recipes that highlight its wonderful qualities.

Sushi Rice

Now, let’s talk about sushi rice. This type of rice is perfect for making delicious chicken fried rice with a Japanese twist.

I absolutely love using sushi rice for this dish because it has a sticky texture that holds all the flavors together. The grains are short and plump, which gives the fried rice a delightful chewiness.

Sushi rice also has a slightly sweet taste that pairs well with the savory flavors of chicken and vegetables. It absorbs the flavors of the seasonings and sauces beautifully, creating a vibrant and tasty dish.

Whether you’re a fan of sushi or not, sushi rice is definitely worth trying in your chicken fried rice recipe.

Wild Rice

If you’re looking to switch up your usual grain options, wild rice is a great alternative. It adds a unique and nutty flavor to any dish, making it a perfect choice for chicken fried rice.

I love how the grains are long and slender, giving the dish a visually appealing look. When cooked, wild rice has a slightly chewy texture that adds a nice contrast to the tender chicken and vegetables.

It also packs a nutritional punch, being high in fiber and protein. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a suitable choice for those with dietary restrictions.

Black Rice

Black rice, also known as forbidden rice, is a nutritious option that offers a unique texture and flavor to any dish. I absolutely love cooking with black rice because it adds a beautiful visual appeal to my meals and brings a delightful nutty taste.

The texture is slightly chewy, which adds a satisfying bite to every spoonful. Not only does black rice taste amazing, but it also packs a nutritional punch. It is rich in antioxidants, fiber, and minerals like iron and magnesium. Plus, it has a lower glycemic index compared to white rice, making it a suitable choice for those watching their blood sugar levels.

Whether I’m making a stir-fry or a colorful salad, black rice always elevates the dish to another level.

Red Rice

When you cook with red rice, you’ll notice its distinct nutty flavor and firm texture that pairs well with a variety of dishes. I love using red rice in my cooking because it adds a beautiful pop of color to any meal.

The grains are slightly larger than traditional white rice, giving it a satisfying chewiness that I find delightful. Whether I’m making a hearty stir-fry or a flavorful pilaf, red rice always adds a unique and delicious element to the dish.

It’s also a healthier option as it contains more fiber and nutrients compared to white rice. So, if you’re looking to switch things up and add some excitement to your meals, I highly recommend giving red rice a try. You won’t be disappointed!

Forbidden Rice

Have you ever tried cooking forbidden rice? It’s a unique and delicious type of rice that I absolutely love.

Forbidden rice, also known as black rice, has a striking deep purple color and a nutty flavor that adds a delightful twist to any dish. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also has numerous health benefits. This rice is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and iron, making it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Cooking forbidden rice is quite simple. Just like any other rice, you rinse it, add water, and let it simmer until it’s tender and fluffy.

Whether you’re making a stir-fry, a rice salad, or a side dish, forbidden rice is a fantastic option that will elevate your culinary experience. Give it a try, and you won’t be disappointed!