Jump to brown rice stir fry recipe!
One of the great things about stir-fries is its versatility—you can combine your favorite proteins, vegetables, and rice, then finish it all off with your favorite sauce to create a meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Our Sesame Ginger Chicken Brown Rice Stir Fry is a perfect example of this, bursting with flavor and made with our signature Brown Milled California Japonica Rice.
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients and the finest rice, we've created a meal that's quick and easy to prepare, making it the ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends.
➡️Shop Chico Rice Brown Milled California Japonica Rice ⬅️
Why Choose a Brown Rice Stir Fry?
Brown rice is not only a healthier option, but it also adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor to this stir fry.
Unlike white rice, brown rice retains its bran and germ, which means it’s packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
When you choose a brown rice stir fry recipe like this one, you're not just enjoying a tasty meal but making a healthier food choice.
➡️ Learn more about brown japonica rice in our blog, A Guide to Brown Japonica Rice.
Tips for Cooking Brown Rice Stir Fry
Pre-Cook the Rice
For the best results, cook your brown rice ahead of time. This allows it to cool down and firm up, making it perfect for stir frying.
Super fresh cooked rice can sometimes be too soft and become mushy during the stir fry process.
Make sure you do not leave your rice out for longer than 2 hours. Any longer than that and you will need to refrigerate it.
Leftover Brown Rice Recipe
You can even make this a leftover brown rice recipe and cut your cook time in half!
Use your old rice from a previous meal and add it in the pan when you combine all the ingredients.
This is a great way to not waste your delicious brown rice but also skip a cooking step.
High Heat
Stir frying requires high heat. Make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding your ingredients.
This helps to quickly sear the chicken and vegetables, locking in their flavors and creating that delicious caramelization.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan
If your pan is too small or you are doubling the recipe you can split the ingredients up and cook it in smaller batches.
Overcrowding the pan can cause the food to steam rather than stir fry, leading to soggy vegetables and chicken.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about a brown rice stir fry is its versatility. Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own. Here are a few variations to consider:
Vegetarian Option: Swap out the chicken for tofu or tempeh to make a vegetarian brown rice stir fry that’s just as delicious.
Add More Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself to the veggies listed in the recipe. Feel free to add mushrooms, zucchini, or even more garlic to your brown rice stir fry for added flavor and nutrition.
Spice It Up: If you like your stir fry with a bit of a kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha or your favorite hot sauce to the stir fry sauce.
Storing Your Leftover Brown Rice Stir Fry
Store any leftover stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a little water or an ice cube to maintain moisture in your brown rice stir fry.
Recipe: Sesame Ginger Chicken Brown Rice Stir Fry
This delectable brown rice stir fry is a perfect recipe for a family of four or a quick dinner for two, with the option for delicious leftovers. Discover a new favorite in your weekly meal rotation!
Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 52 minutes
Total Time: 67 minutes
What You Will Need
- 2 cups of Brown Milled California Japonica Rice
- 4 cups water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1-pound boneless chicken breasts (tofu for a vegetarian option), cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, minced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (use a mix of colors)
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1/2 cup sliced scallions
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your preferred spice level)
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Cooking Instructions
Cook The Rice
- Rinse Chico Rice Brown Milled California Japonica Rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a medium saucepan, add the water and bring to a boil.
- Add the rinsed rice to the boiling water. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 40 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes.
Cook The Stir Fry
- In a large skillet or wok, heat one tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken (or tofu) and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining one tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add broccoli, bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots to the skillet. Stir fry for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked protein and rice to the skillet with the vegetables.
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and red pepper flakes.
- Pour the sauce over the stir fry and toss everything together for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- To serve, divide the cooked brown rice stir fry among four plates and top with additional stir fry sauce mixture.
- Garnish with sliced scallions and sesame seeds.
Try It!
This Sesame Ginger Chicken Brown Rice Stir Fry meal is an easy dish that brings together the best of flavor, nutrition, and convenience.
Whether you're cooking for family or looking for a quick and delicious leftover brown rice recipe, this brown rice stir fry will become a staple in your kitchen.
