22 Fried Rice Recipes for Every Craving
Fried rice recipes offer a delicious way to enjoy comfort food with a touch of variety. Each recipe combines rice with fresh vegetables, proteins, and spices to create satisfying, flavorful meals.
These dishes are perfect for using up leftovers or creating something special with simple ingredients. Fried rice can range from mild and savory to bold and spicy, catering to all taste preferences.
It’s a versatile dish that can stand alone or serve as a great side. Check out 22 fried rice recipes that add flavor and fun to any meal:
Thai Basil Fried Rice
Thai basil fried rice delivers a remarkable flavor experience that elevates traditional fried rice to new levels.
Infused with the aromatic essence of Thai basil and complemented by succulent shrimp, this dish boasts an enticing blend of spicy and savory notes.
The freshness from the herbs transforms each bite into a culinary delight you won’t forget.
It's perfect for those seeking something exciting yet easy to whip up during busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Nasi Goreng
Nasi goreng is a flavorful Indonesian fried rice dish that stands out due to its unique combination of shrimp paste and kecap manis, which impart rich depth and sweetness.
This meal often features an array of colorful vegetables, offering not just taste but visual appeal as well.
With its satisfying texture and aromatic spices, it captures the essence of comfort food while being quick to prepare.
Whether enjoyed solo or paired with your favorite proteins, it's sure to leave a lasting impression on your palate.
Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice
Hawaiian pineapple fried rice is a tasty dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors of the islands. The standout feature lies in its combination of sweet, savory, and umami notes created from simple ingredients you likely have on hand.
This recipe transforms leftover rice into a colorful meal bursting with tropical goodness and tantalizing textures. With each bite, the juicy pineapple mingles harmoniously with crisp vegetables and tender grains to create an enjoyable experience for your palate.
Perfectly suited for lunch or dinner, it brings a taste of Hawaii straight to your kitchen table without requiring extensive preparation.
Hibachi Fried Rice
Hibachi fried rice offers a flavorful way to repurpose leftover rice, transforming it into an appetizing dish.
Featuring the robust flavors often found in Japanese teppanyaki restaurants, this recipe delivers that signature taste right at home in just 15 minutes.
You’ll appreciate how easily you can incorporate vegetables and proteins of your choice, making each serving customizable to suit your palate.
The simplicity of preparing hibachi fried rice makes it a go-to option for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends.
Arroz Chaufa (Peruvian Fried Rice)
Arroz chaufa is a tasty Peruvian fried rice dish that elevates your typical comfort food into something extraordinary.
Featuring a delightful mix of rice, tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and savory soy sauce, this meal comes together quickly in under 20 minutes.
Utilizing leftover ingredients not only minimizes waste but also allows for endless variations tailored to what you have on hand.
Ideal for busy weeknights, it transforms simple pantry staples into an exciting culinary experience that's sure to satisfy hunger and ignite the palate with every forkful.
Pork Fried Rice
Pork fried rice is a classic dish that brings the flavors of Chinese takeout right into your home kitchen.
Featuring succulent pork and a vibrant mix of vegetables, this recipe elevates leftover rice to new heights with its rich sauces.
You can whip up this satisfying meal in around 20 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
Chinese Restaurant Fried Rice
Chinese restaurant fried rice is a flavorful dish that transforms leftover rice into a satisfying meal.
Known for its versatility, this recipe allows you to add your favorite proteins and vegetables, making it easy to tailor the flavors to suit your taste.
With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can whip up an irresistible side or main course in no time.
It's not merely about filling your plate; it's about enhancing your dining experience with vibrant tastes typical of authentic Chinese cuisine while using what you already have at home.
Breakfast Fried Rice
Breakfast fried rice brings together savory bacon, fluffy eggs, and tender green onions for a delightful twist on traditional morning meals.
This quick stir-fry transforms leftover rice into a satisfying dish that’s ready in under 15 minutes.
You can enjoy this creation any time of day, making it perfect for brunch or even dinner leftovers reimagined.
With its hearty flavors and easy preparation, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe whenever you're looking to mix things up in the kitchen without much fuss.
Jambalaya Fried Rice
Jambalaya fried rice combines the essence of classic Cajun flavors with comforting stir-fried rice.
This dish features a delightful blend of spices, succulent sausages, and tender okra that come together to create a satisfying meal bursting with character.
Using just one pan simplifies preparation, making it an ideal option for any weeknight dinner or casual gathering.
With its rich taste and vibrant colors, this recipe offers a delicious way to enjoy beloved Southern ingredients in every mouthful while bringing warmth to your table through shared experiences around food.
Fried Brown Rice
Fried brown rice is a wholesome alternative to traditional fried rice, boasting added nutrients that enhance its profile. The hearty and slightly chewy texture of brown rice provides a satisfying base for various ingredients, making every dish unique.
You can easily incorporate your favorite vegetables or proteins into the mix, creating a versatile meal option tailored to your taste preferences. With its robust flavor and nutritional benefits, this variation makes it easy to enjoy comfort food without compromising on health.
Whether it's served as an accompaniment or stands alone as a main dish, fried brown rice brings both substance and satisfaction to any table.
Mexican Fried Rice
Mexican fried rice is a tasty dish that bursts with the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine.
With its combination of colorful vegetables, spices, and hearty grains, this one-pot meal transforms simple ingredients into an exciting culinary experience.
You’ll appreciate how easily you can prepare this satisfying dinner option on busy weeknights without compromising on taste or nutrition.
Kimchi Fried Rice
Kimchi fried rice is a flavorful take on traditional stir-fried rice, elevating leftovers into a dish bursting with bold Korean spices.
Packed with fermented kimchi and aromatic ingredients, this recipe delivers an irresistible kick that will satisfy your cravings for something hearty yet simple.
The beauty of this creation lies in its adaptability; you can incorporate various proteins or veggies to suit your taste preferences while maintaining the authentic essence of Korean cuisine.
A quick cook time makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without much fuss.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Shrimp fried rice delivers a quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with succulent shrimp and an assortment of fresh vegetables, this dish brings together a balance of flavors in every forkful.
With just thirty minutes needed from prep to plate, it transforms ordinary ingredients into something truly special.
You can easily customize the mix of veggies to suit your tastes or what you have on hand, making it both versatile and practical for any kitchen.
Indo Chinese Fried Rice
Indo-Chinese fried rice is a tasty dish that fuses traditional Chinese flavors with Indian spices, creating a unique culinary experience.
Packed with colorful vegetables and an abundance of ginger and garlic, this stir-fried rice delivers both aroma and taste in every bite.
This dish brings together the warmth of Indian cuisine while honoring classic Chinese cooking techniques.
I appreciate how easily you can adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or what’s available in your pantry.
Cauliflower Fried Rice
Cauliflower fried rice serves as a nutritious alternative to traditional grain-based options, packing a punch of flavor while keeping carbs in check.
This dish is ideal for those seeking a quick and wholesome meal, taking just around 25 minutes to prepare from start to finish.
By substituting cauliflower for rice, it adds an extra serving of vegetables without compromising on taste or texture.
You can easily incorporate your favorite proteins or vegetables into this versatile recipe, making it adaptable to any dietary preference.
Indian Masala Fried Rice
Indian masala fried rice is a zesty dish known as phodnicha bhat, celebrated for its bold spices and aromatic flavors.
Utilizing leftover rice transforms everyday ingredients into an exciting meal that tantalizes your palate.
With the addition of vibrant vegetables and traditional seasonings, it becomes a go-to option for those seeking to spice up their dining experience.
This quick recipe not only saves time but also delivers satisfying warmth in every serving, making it an excellent choice for lunch or dinner.
Sheet Pan Chicken Fried Rice
Sheet pan chicken fried rice offers a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a classic dish with minimal effort.
Utilizing the oven instead of traditional stovetop methods, this recipe delivers perfectly cooked ingredients in just 15 minutes.
With tender pieces of chicken mingling seamlessly among flavorful rice and vibrant vegetables, it transforms weeknight dinners into effortless meals that satisfy your cravings without fuss.
The versatility allows for easy customization based on what you have on hand, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when time is tight yet flavor can't be compromised.
Beef Fried Rice
Beef fried rice stands out as a fulfilling dish featuring tender flank steak and vibrant peas, delivering an array of satisfying flavors.
A quick preparation time makes this meal perfect for those moments when you're longing for Asian-inspired comfort food.
With its savory profile, every spoonful brings together rich ingredients that cater to your appetite without complicating the cooking process.
It’s a fantastic option whether you’re planning dinner or just need something delicious in no time.
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Thai pineapple fried rice offers a refreshing twist on traditional fried rice, highlighted by the sweetness of juicy pineapple and aromatic spices.
This dish comes together quickly using straightforward ingredients, making it an ideal choice for busy days or casual gatherings.
Serving it in a hollowed-out pineapple not only enhances its visual appeal but also adds a tropical flair that’s sure to impress at any Asian-themed event.
Spicy Chicken Fried Rice
Spicy chicken fried rice brings a fiery twist to the classic comfort dish, perfect for those craving bold flavors.
Infused with sriracha and other traditional ingredients, this meal delivers a delightful heat that transforms each bite into an adventure.
Tender pieces of chicken mingle with vegetables and perfectly cooked rice, creating a satisfying combination that's hard to resist.
Ideal for weeknight dinners or whenever you need something quick yet exciting on your plate, it’s sure to become a go-to recipe in your kitchen repertoire.
Golden Fried Rice
Golden fried rice is a sumptuous dish that features grains enveloped in rich egg yolk, imparting an enticing golden hue and delightful crispiness. Packed with succulent shrimp and an assortment of fresh vegetables, this meal offers both flavor and nutrition in every forkful.
The method of stir-frying ensures that each grain remains separate while absorbing the vibrant flavors from its companions. A satisfying option for lunch or dinner, it brings together essential ingredients seamlessly to create something truly special on your table.
Whip up this colorful delight for a quick yet impressive feast any day of the week.
Spam Fried Rice
Spam fried rice is a quick meal that transforms pantry staples into something extraordinary. Utilizing the beloved canned ham, this dish incorporates frozen vegetables and eggs for a balanced weeknight dinner ready in mere minutes.
The combination of flavors creates an easy yet fulfilling option you can whip up when time is tight. With its versatility, it seamlessly adapts to whatever ingredients are on hand while still delivering comfort in each bowl.
For those seeking simplicity without sacrificing taste, this recipe stands out as a go-to solution any night of the week.
Linda Dean
Expertise
Culinary Arts, Food Journalism, Global Cuisine, Exploration, Recipe Development, Cultural Food Studies, Culinary Travel and Storytelling
Education
Culinary Institute of America, Hyde Park, NY
Program: Associate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Developed a comprehensive understanding of global cuisines and essential cooking techniques. Engaged in intensive hands-on practice in both kitchens and real-world settings, guided by expert chefs. This program emphasized the application of culinary skills in professional environments, preparing students for a variety of roles in the culinary industry.
City, University of London, London, UK
Program: BA Journalism
Focus: Gained expertise in media studies with a strong foundation in reporting, editing, and communicating. While the program focuses broadly on journalism, the skills acquired apply to food journalism, including the ability to analyze and report on food culture and culinary trends effectively.
Linda Dean is an experienced chef and food writer who loves exploring flavors from around the world. Trained at the Culinary Institute of America, Linda has spent over ten years mastering the art of making dishes that truly represent different cultures. She also studied journalism at City, University of London, which helps her write engaging stories about these foods.
On heythattastesgood.com, Linda shares recipes that bring the world’s kitchens to her readers. She focuses on authentic tastes and the stories behind them, making it easy for anyone to try international cuisine at home.