Hello rice lovers! If you’re looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal, Nigerian fried rice is the perfect dish for you. This delicious dish is made with fluffy long-grain rice, juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and lots of herbs and spices. The combination of flavors in Nigerian fried rice is simply irresistible, making it a must-try recipe for all foodies out there. Plus, it’s super easy to make with the help of your trusty rice cooker. So, let’s get cooking! We’ve made this nigerian fried rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

nigerian fried rice ingredients

Ingredients

  • 4 cups of long grain white rice
  • 1 can of green peas (15 ounces)
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 tablespoon of curry powder
  • 1 teaspoon of thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon of white pepper
  • 1/2 cup of vegetable oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 2 cups of chicken broth
  • 1/2 pound of cooked and diced chicken breast

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the diced carrots and peppers to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the curry powder, thyme, salt, and white pepper to the skillet and stir to combine.
  5. Add the rinsed rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the vegetable mixture. Cook for 2-3 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
  6. Add the chicken broth and green peas to the skillet and stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid.
  7. Simmer until the liquid is fully absorbed and the rice is tender, about 20-25 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
  8. Add the cooked and diced chicken to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat the chicken through.
  9. Serve the Nigerian fried rice hot and garnish with additional fresh herbs or sliced scallions if desired.

nigerian fried rice

How long does nigerian fried rice last in the fridge?

Nigerian fried rice can be stored in the fridge after cooking for up to 3-4 days if it is properly stored in an airtight container. It is important to let the rice cool down to room temperature before storing. Additionally, it is recommended to reheat the fried rice before consuming it. However, it’s worth noting that the longer the rice is stored, the drier it may become. If you are unsure about the freshness of your fried rice, it’s best to err on the side of caution and throw it out. As a helpful chef, I would suggest storing the rice in smaller portions, so that you only reheat what you plan to consume to avoid waste.

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Low calorie nigerian fried rice recipe substitutions

To make this Nigerian fried rice recipe lower in calories, some substitutions that can be made include using brown rice instead of white rice. Brown rice is a healthier option as it contains more fiber which makes one feel full for longer with fewer calories. Additionally, using a non-stick cooking spray instead of vegetable oil can reduce the added fat. Using chicken broth with low sodium content can also help in minimizing salt intake. Lastly, adding more vegetables like spinach, broccoli or even zucchini can help increase fiber and make the meal more filling, without adding extra calories. These substitutions can help reduce the overall calorie count of the dish while still keeping the amazing flavors and nutrients.

What to serve with a nigerian fried rice?

When serving Nigerian fried rice, it’s best to pair it with other traditional Nigerian dishes such as grilled chicken, plantains, and moi-moi (steamed bean pudding) for a complete meal. Alternatively, fried fish or beef and stewed vegetables like spinach or cabbage can also complement the flavors of the rice. Adding a side of salad or coleslaw can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of the dish. To finish, serve a sweet dessert, such as jollof rice cake, to complete the meal.

Whats the best sauce for a nigerian fried rice?

The best sauce for Nigerian fried rice is the tomato-based sauce commonly known as “stew.” This sauce is made of tomatoes, onions, peppers, and seasonings, and it is a staple in Nigerian cuisine. To make the sauce, you cook the chopped onions, peppers, and tomatoes in oil until they are soft and well combined. Then you add in seasoning cubes, salt, and any other spices you like. Allow the sauce to simmer for some time and adjust the taste to your preference. Pour the sauce over the fried rice to add some extra flavor and moisture to it.

Nigerian fried rice health benefits

Nigerian fried rice is a delicious and flavorful dish that is typically made with rice, mixed vegetables, and various spices. While fried rice can be a satisfying and tasty dish to enjoy, it is not particularly healthy due to the high calorie and fat content. However, one way to make the dish healthier is to use brown rice instead of white rice which is a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Additionally, adding more vegetables to the dish can increase its nutritional value and provide vitamins and antioxidants. Overall, while Nigerian fried rice is a tasty and flavorful dish, there are healthier options available such as brown rice stir-fry with vegetables and lean protein.

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