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Fried rice is a perfect way to turn rice and simple ingredients into a satisfying, savory meal with great texture and big taste. Whether you like yours spicy, sweet, smoky, or packed with protein and veggies, there are countless ways to customize it at home. This list includes classics, take‑out inspired favorites, international versions, and creative twists that elevate everyday rice into a full meal. Each recipe brings its own unique flair while celebrating the familiar stir‑fried base we all love.

Filipino Fried Rice

A close-up of Filipino fried rice mixed with cabbage, onions, and meat pieces. A spoon is partially visible on the left side.
Filipino Fried Rice. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Golden garlic and rice stir together with savory soy and a hint of sweetness. Often mixed with bits of pork or leftover meats, it’s hearty and flavorful. A touch of vinegar or calamansi brightens the dish. Easy to make and beloved across households.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Fried Rice

Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

Leftover Turkey Fried Rice. Photo credit: xoxo Bella.

Turkey from dinner gets chopped and stir‑fried with rice, eggs, and veggies. Soy sauce and sesame oil add deep, savory flavor. It’s great for clearing out leftovers while making something new. The turkey keeps this version extra substantial.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Fried Rice

Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice (Easy Homemade Recipe)

Pineapple half filled with chicken fried rice, peas, and diced red peppers; garnished with green onions.
Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice (Easy Homemade Recipe). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Tender chicken and sweet pineapple chunks mix with rice and peas in this tropical take. The sweetness of pineapple balances the savory soy and garlic notes. Cashews or green onions add crunch and bright flavor. A quick, one‑pan meal with sweet and savory contrast.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice (Easy Homemade Recipe)

Ham Fried Rice

Ham fried rice on a white plate.
Ham Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Chunks of salty ham pair beautifully with scrambled egg, rice, and mixed veggies. The extra protein makes it especially filling. Soy sauce and pepper tie the flavors together. A simple upgrade to leftover rice.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice

Nigerian Fried Rice

An overhead image of Nigerian fried rice in a serving bowl.
Nigerian Fried Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

This colorful fried rice features mixed vegetables, meats, and often shrimp or chicken. Long grain rice gets flavored with broth and seasonings before stir‑frying. Bright colors and bold spices make it stand out. Great for gatherings or weeknight dinners.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Fried Rice

Spicy Egg Fried Rice

A pan of Spicy Egg Fried Rice with scrambled eggs, garnished with seasonings and stirred with a wooden spatula.
Spicy Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Eggs All Ways.

Eggs scramble into sizzling rice with chili paste or hot sauce for bold heat. Scallions and garlic add extra punch. The spice level can be dialed up or down. A fiery take on a simple classic.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Egg Fried Rice

Hibachi Fried Rice

Hibachi Fried Rice. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

This version mimics the Japanese steakhouse style with buttery rice, eggs, and soy. It’s often cooked on high heat for a little smoky char. Peas, carrots, and onions add color and texture. A diner‑favorite you can make at home.
Get the Recipe: Hibachi Fried Rice

Authentic Shrimp Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout!)

Bowl of shrimp fried rice with vegetables, accompanied by a small dish of chili sauce, on a table with a blue checkered cloth.
Authentic Shrimp Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout!). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Juicy shrimp sear quickly before being tossed with rice, eggs, and veggies. A splash of soy and sesame oil gives rich, savory notes. The shrimp adds delicate sweetness to every bite. Great if you want seafood fried rice at home.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Shrimp Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout!)

PF Chang’s Fried Rice – Copycat Recipe

PF Chang’s Fried Rice – Copycat Recipe. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

This take‑out favorite combines chicken, eggs, peas, carrots, and rice with savory sauces. The flavor aims to match the restaurant’s balance of sweet and salty. Stir‑frying at high heat brings a smoky note. A satisfying homemade version you can customize.
Get the Recipe: PF Chang’s Fried Rice – Copycat Recipe

Basil Fried Rice

Basil Fried Rice. Photo credit: Running to the Kitchen.

Fresh basil leaves wilt into savory rice with garlic and soy. The herb adds a bright, peppery aroma to each spoonful. It pairs especially well with chicken or tofu. An easy, fragrant spin on classic fried rice.
Get the Recipe: Basil Fried Rice

Teriyaki Chicken Egg Fried Rice

Teriyaki Chicken Egg Fried Rice. Photo credit: Ramona’s Cuisine.

Chunks of teriyaki‑glazed chicken mix with egg and rice for sweet and savory bites. The sticky chicken adds flavor throughout. Veggies like peas and carrots bring color and crunch. A great weeknight meal with familiar flavors.
Get the Recipe: Teriyaki Chicken Egg Fried Rice

Spam Fried Rice

Spam Fried Rice. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Crispy cubes of Spam give this fried rice a salty, savory edge. Eggs, veggies, and rice cook together in one pan. A little soy sauce and sesame oil round out the taste. A comforting, simple version that’s quick to make.
Get the Recipe: Spam Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice on a white plate with a green napkin.
Chicken Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

A staple version with diced chicken, scrambled eggs, mixed veggies, and seasoned rice. Garlic, soy sauce, and green onions build the classic flavor base. Protein and carbs come together in one pan. A go‑to recipe for everyday dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Kimchi Fried Rice

Kimchi Fried Rice. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Tangy, spicy kimchi brings bold fermented flavor to fried rice. Pork or tofu can be added for protein. A fried egg on top makes it extra satisfying. Each bite is vibrant with umami and heat.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Fried Rice

Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice

A plate of fried rice with limes.
Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice. Photo credit: All Ways Delicious.

This sweet and savory version features pineapple, ham or chicken, and colorful veggies. The fruit adds juicy sweetness that balances the salty soy sauce. Cashews or macadamias bring a crunchy finish. A fun, tropical twist on fried rice.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice

Easy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe: For Busy Weeknights

A plate of fried rice with tofu, peas, corn, carrots, and egg.
Easy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe: For Busy Weeknights. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Soft tofu cubes get lightly browned and mixed with vegetables and rice. It uses simple seasonings for straightforward flavor. Quick to prepare, it’s ideal for weeknight cooking. A balanced, vegetarian‑friendly meal.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe: For Busy Weeknights

Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe

A plate of fried rice with cherry tomatoes, basil, green onions, spinach, and lime wedges.
Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe. Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Fresh Thai basil mingles with jasmine rice, garlic, and protein of choice. The herb’s peppery aroma elevates each bite. A touch of fish sauce or soy deepens the flavor. A fragrant, satisfying fried rice variation.
Get the Recipe: Basil Fried Rice: Delicious Thai-Inspired Recipe

Brisket Fried Rice

Brisket fried rice in black serving dish on white background.
Brisket Fried Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Smoky brisket pieces add rich, beefy flavor to fried rice. Leftover brisket works perfectly here. Eggs and veggies round out the dish. A savory, hearty meal that turns leftovers into something new.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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