Quick Chicken Sausage Fried Rice Recipe – Easy Toddler Meal

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Quick Chicken Sausage Fried Rice Recipe – Easy Toddler Meal

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the lookout for quick, easy, and healthy meals that the whole family will enjoy. Especially when you’ve got little ones! This Chicken Sausage Fried Rice is a lifesaver. It’s become a regular in our house – a perfect way to use up leftover rice and sneak in some veggies. I first made this when my little one was starting solids, and it was such a hit! Let’s get cooking, shall we?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This fried rice isn’t just fast; it’s genuinely delicious. It’s a fantastic way to introduce your toddler to different textures and flavors. Plus, it’s super adaptable – you can swap out the veggies and protein to suit your family’s preferences. It’s a complete meal in one pan, which means fewer dishes (always a win!). And honestly, it’s just plain comforting.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this tasty fried rice:

• 1 cup Basmati Rice
• 2 cups water
• Salt (to taste)
• 1 tablespoon Butter
• 1 Egg
• 1 tablespoon Oil
• Chopped Onions (amount to your liking)
• 1 Carrot, chopped
• Chopped Green Bell Pepper (amount to your liking)
• 2 Chicken Sausages, chopped
• 1 teaspoon Soy Sauce
• Rice Vinegar (to taste)
• Chili Garlic Paste (to taste)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips I’ve picked up over the years…

Basmati Rice: Importance of rinsing & variety options.

Rinsing basmati rice is key to getting that fluffy, separate grain texture. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear – this removes excess starch. You can also use other long-grain rice like jasmine rice, but basmati has a lovely aroma. (About 180g uncooked rice)

Chicken Sausages: Regional variations & quality considerations.

I prefer using good quality chicken sausages for the best flavor. You can find different regional variations – some are spicier, some are herby. Feel free to experiment! You could also use pork or turkey sausages.

Chili Garlic Paste: Adjusting spice levels & homemade options.

Chili garlic paste adds a lovely kick, but it can be spicy! Start with a small amount and add more to taste, especially if you’re making this for little ones. You can even make your own by blending chili flakes, garlic, and a little oil.

Soy Sauce: Types & sodium content.

I usually use regular soy sauce, but you can opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you’re watching your salt intake. Dark soy sauce will give a richer color, but it also has a stronger flavor. (Around 15ml)

Rice Vinegar: Substitutes & flavor profile.

Rice vinegar adds a subtle tanginess. If you don’t have it, you can use apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar in a pinch, but use a little less. (Around 5-10ml)

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, rinse your basmati rice thoroughly. Then, cook it with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt until all the water evaporates. Once cooked, fluff it up with a fork and set it aside.
2. Now, heat a tablespoon of butter in a pan. Crack in your egg, scramble it with a little salt and pepper, and then transfer it to a bowl.
3. In the same pan, add a tablespoon of oil. Sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and bell pepper on high heat until the vegetables start to soften.
4. Add the chopped chicken sausages to the pan and cook until they’re lightly browned.
5. Pour in the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic paste. Give everything a good stir.
6. Reduce the heat and add the cooked rice and scrambled egg to the pan. Gently stir everything together until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcrowd the pan! Cook in batches if necessary to ensure the vegetables get nicely browned.
• Using day-old rice is actually better for fried rice, as it’s drier and won’t get mushy.
• Taste as you go! Adjust the soy sauce, rice vinegar, and chili garlic paste to your liking.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

• Vegan Fried Rice: My friend Sarah loves making this with tofu instead of sausage and using a vegan egg substitute. It’s just as delicious!
• Gluten-Free Fried Rice: Simply use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Spice Level Adjustment: For a milder flavor, omit the chili garlic paste altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
• Quick Weeknight Adaptation: Use pre-cut veggies to save time!

Serving Suggestions

This fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but it’s also great with a side of steamed broccoli or a simple salad. My kids love it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Is this fried rice suitable for babies/young toddlers?

Yes, it is! Just be mindful of the spice level and make sure the vegetables are cooked until soft. You can also cut the sausage into very small pieces.

Can I use leftover rice for this recipe? What kind?

Absolutely! Leftover rice is ideal. Basmati, jasmine, or any long-grain rice will work well.

What are some good vegetable substitutions?

Feel free to swap out the carrots and bell pepper for peas, corn, mushrooms, or whatever veggies your family enjoys.

Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the vegetables and cook the rice ahead of time. But it’s best to assemble and cook the fried rice just before serving.

How can I adjust the salt content in this recipe?

Use low-sodium soy sauce and go easy on the salt. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away!