Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice is a versatile freezer staple that brings the flavors of takeout straight to your kitchen. Packed with seasoned chicken, scrambled eggs, carrots, peas, and rice, this dish offers a balanced and satisfying meal in minutes. Whether you enjoy it as-is or pair it with other dishes, it's a convenient and budget-friendly option for busy nights.
The frozen fried rice is pre-cooked and ready to heat, making it an easy choice for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. At $2.99, it's a great value for a freezer meal that's both tasty and filling.
Review of Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice
Taste and Texture
Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice delivers a well-rounded flavor with a subtle hint of soy sauce and sesame oil. The chicken pieces are tender and well-seasoned, while the veggies add a pop of freshness. The rice itself is fluffy, not overly greasy, and reheats well, maintaining its texture and flavor.
I appreciated the inclusion of scrambled egg, which adds richness and authenticity to the dish. While it's mildly seasoned, the neutral flavor profile allows for easy customization with your favorite sauces or spices.
Convenience and Value
This frozen fried rice is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It's ready in just a few minutes, whether you're using the stovetop or microwave. The portion size is generous, easily serving two people as a main dish or more as a side. At $3.99, it's an affordable and reliable option for a quick meal that doesn't skimp on flavor.
Overall
Realizing that chicken was not terribly noticeable, I decided to add my own chicken to it, in the form of a fried egg. Will it scratch the itch of fried rice? Yes. Is it as good as your local Chinese establishment? Probably not. Will you need to add protein to this? Yes. Beef, chicken, shrimp, pork, tofu, or a fried egg are needed to make this go from a side to an actual meal.
Is it meant as a side? Probably. If you are like me and fried rice an be the main meal be prepared to add to this. But for $2.99 (it used to be $2.29, but everything seems to be going up) I'm not going to complain too much. You'll spend far more at your local Chinese eatery.
The rice was fine, the veggies were cooked through. The bits of scrambled egg I could take or leave, but my hangup was the lack of chicken. Because it is called chicken fried rice and I wanted this to eat like a meal.
It just didn't. You are totally going to have to supplement this or serve it as a side dish.
Because this is priced more than the Vegetable Fried Rice that's where my issue is. There wasn't enough chicken in this to even remotely think that this was worth the extra money.
Ingredients
Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice features a mix of simple and wholesome ingredients:
- Cooked Rice: Forms the base of the dish, with a fluffy and slightly sticky texture.
- Seasoned Chicken: Provides protein and a subtle savory flavor.
- Egg: Adds richness and authenticity to the fried rice experience.
- Vegetables (Carrots and Peas): Contribute freshness, sweetness, and color.
- Soy Sauce and Sesame Oil: Bring classic fried rice flavors, with a mild, slightly nutty taste.
The ingredient list is straightforward, making it a great option for those looking for a cleaner frozen meal.
How to Prepare Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice
Basic Preparation Instructions
- Stovetop: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add a tablespoon of oil (optional), then pour the frozen fried rice into the skillet. Stir occasionally and cook for 5-7 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place the frozen fried rice in a microwave-safe dish. Cover and heat on high for 4-5 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Pair with Other Dishes
- Serve as a side dish with potstickers, spring rolls, or grilled chicken for a takeout-inspired meal.
- Pair it with Trader Joe's Mandarin Orange Chicken for a quick and complete Chinese-inspired dinner.
Recipe Suggestions
- Chicken Fried Rice Stir-Fry
Add sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or snow peas to the skillet while reheating for extra veggies and texture. - Spicy Fried Rice
Toss the cooked fried rice with a tablespoon of sriracha or chili garlic sauce for a fiery kick. - Breakfast Fried Rice
Top the reheated fried rice with a fried egg and a sprinkle of green onions for a hearty breakfast option.
Creative Uses for Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice
- Rice Bowl: Serve the fried rice as a base for a rice bowl, adding grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp.
- Stuffed Peppers: Use the fried rice as a filling for bell peppers, bake, and enjoy a twist on a classic dish.
- Fried Rice Wrap: Wrap the fried rice in a tortilla with shredded lettuce and hoisin sauce for a portable lunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are some frequently asked questions about Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice:
No, the soy sauce in this dish contains gluten.
This product costs $2.99
Add a drizzle of soy sauce, sriracha, or sesame oil for extra flavor. You can also toss in additional veggies, proteins, or spices.
Final Thoughts on Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice
Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice is a reliable and tasty option for those busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without much effort. With tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and a fluffy rice base, it delivers on flavor and convenience. While it may not rival freshly made fried rice, its versatility and quick prep make it a worthy addition to your freezer lineup.
At $2.99, it's an affordable, easy-to-customize dish that pairs well with other favorites or stands on its own. Whether you're a fried rice fan or just looking for a new go-to frozen meal, this one is worth adding to your next Trader Joe's haul.
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Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice
Product Name: Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice
Product Description: Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice is a quick meal ready in about 5 minutes.
Price: $2.99
Currency: USD
Availability: InStoreOnly
Summary
Trader Joe's Chicken Fried Rice is a long standing favorite in the freezer section.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Convenient: Quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop or microwave.
- Balanced Flavors: Mildly seasoned, with tender chicken and fresh veggies.
- Affordable: At $2.99, it’s a great value for a satisfying meal.
- Customizable: Works well with additional sauces, spices, or ingredients.
Cons
- Not Gluten-Free: Contains soy sauce with gluten.
- Mild Seasoning: Some may prefer stronger flavors, which can easily be added.
- Chicken: While I understand that fried rice isn't usually very protein-forward, this was barely able to be called Chicken Fried Rice.
Amy says
You should try their Japanese style fried rice. No chicken, but there's so much more flavor.
becomebetty says
I'll add that to my list. Thanks for the suggestion!
Anupum pant says
I agree. I tried the Japanese first. Just loved it. But then this was disappointing.
Alek says
It screams that you would need to supply your own chicken. BYOC in the product.
Paige N. says
I'm a big fan of the vegetable fried rice, but I always doctor it up. I usually add a little extra soy sauce, a little sesame oil, and mirin. And I add a scrambled egg. I think I'll stick with the veggie rice if this one has very little chicken!