Name: Chifa Fried Rice (Arroz Chaufa) with Local California Vegetables
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old); 6 oz boneless, skinless chicken thighs, diced; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup red bell pepper, diced; 1/2 cup snap peas, sliced; 1/4 cup green onions, sliced; 2 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tbsp oyster sauce; 2 tsp sesame oil; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 small carrot, diced; 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp white pepper

Chifa Fried Rice (Arroz Chaufa) with Local California Vegetables

finack

This Chifa Fried Rice (Arroz Chaufa) celebrates the Chinese-Peruvian fusion found in California's vibrant food scene. Blending classic wok technique with fresh, seasonal California produce, each bite balances savory chicken, fluffy eggs, and crisp vegetables—all kissed by a smoky wok char. The key here is using day-old jasmine rice, which fries up perfectly without getting mushy. A drizzle of sesame oil and the deep umami of oyster sauce bring it together, while the finishing touch of fresh green onions adds brightness. Enjoy a taste of global comfort food, beautifully adapted for a sunny California evening.

Ingredients

Instructions

Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat. Add 1 tbsp vegetable oil. Once shimmering, add diced chicken, season with salt and white pepper, and stir-fry until golden and cooked through, 3-4 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
Add remaining 1 tbsp oil to the wok. Add garlic, bell pepper, carrot, and snap peas. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until crisp-tender and fragrant.
Push vegetables to one side. Pour beaten eggs onto the other side, letting them set slightly, then scramble gently and mix with vegetables.
Add the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry everything together for 2 minutes, making sure rice is heated through.
Return chicken to the wok. Drizzle soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil over the mixture. Toss well to coat everything evenly, letting the rice brown slightly against the hot wok for extra flavor.
Add green onions and toss to combine. Stir-fry for 1 more minute, then taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.