Make It Count Kitchen

A fast, flavor-packed take on a comfort classic

If you’re on the hunt for easy nutritious recipes that satisfy without the fuss, this Chicken Bacon Fried Rice is a weeknight winner. Loaded with protein from chicken and bacon, fiber-rich veggies, and jasmine rice for staying power, this is a wholesome, one-pan meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor.

It’s especially ideal for those summer dinner recipes that need to come together fast without heating up the whole kitchen. Perfect for using up leftover rice and a great way to repurpose everyday ingredients, this recipe is hearty, craveable, and guaranteed to earn a spot in your easy weeknight recipes rotation.

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Ingredients

• ½ lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
• 5 slices center-cut organic bacon
• 3 cups day-old jasmine rice (cold rice fries best)
• 2 cups green cabbage, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded or julienned carrots
• 1 whole green onion, sliced (reserve some for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Crisp the Bacon
   Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy, turning as needed. Remove bacon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the pan—it brings deep, smoky flavor to the rest of the dish.
2. Sear the Chicken
   Add the sliced chicken to the pan and cook for about 4–5 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and lightly golden. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
   Add the cabbage, carrots, and green onion to the skillet. Sauté in the remaining bacon drippings for 3–4 minutes, just until the veggies soften and take on a little color.
4. Bring It All Together
   Chop or crumble the bacon, and slice the chicken if needed. Add both back into the pan along with the cooked vegetables. Stir in the cold jasmine rice, breaking it up with a spatula. Continue tossing and stirring for 5–6 minutes, until everything is evenly combined and the rice is warmed through.
5. Garnish and Serve
   Finish with a sprinkle of fresh green onion and serve hot.

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Tips for Best Results

• Use day-old rice: Cold rice fries up without clumping, giving you that perfect chewy texture.
• Don’t rush the stir-fry: Let ingredients cook in layers for maximum flavor.
• Optional flavor boosters: Add a splash of low-sodium soy sauce or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra depth.

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Why This Recipe Works

This dish strikes the perfect balance between convenience and crave-worthiness. With just a handful of staple ingredients, you can throw together a satisfying dinner in under 30 minutes. It’s exactly what you need for easy weeknight recipes that deliver on taste without requiring a lot of prep.

Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a crowd-pleasing dinner, or a smart way to repurpose leftovers, Chicken Bacon Fried Rice is your go-to. Save it for those warm evenings when you want flavorful, low-lift summer dinner recipes that still feel comforting and fresh.