18 Fried Rice Recipes That Bring Serious Flavor

Fried rice has a way of pulling everything together, leftovers, fresh ingredients, bold sauces, and quick technique, into one fast, flavorful dish. This list gives you a range of options to try whether you want something quick for dinner or a way to make your favorite takeout dish at home.

Chicken Fried Rice

Cooked chicken, scrambled eggs, and mixed vegetables all folded into fluffy rice with soy sauce and sesame oil. This version is a go-to for busy nights. It’s easy to prep ahead and customize with what you have. A squeeze of lime or chili sauce on top gives it extra punch.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Pork Fried Rice

Ground or shredded pork is the base for this savory version, which often includes garlic, onions, and a few dashes of oyster sauce. The meat adds a deeper flavor compared to chicken or tofu. Cook it hot so the edges get a little crispy. It works well for meal prep too.
Get the Recipe: Pork Fried Rice

Tofu Fried Rice

Cubed tofu is pan-fried until crisp and then stirred into rice with veggies and soy sauce. The tofu acts like a sponge, soaking in the flavors around it. It’s a lighter option that still feels complete. You can use firm or extra-firm tofu for the best texture.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice

Juicy pineapple, savory ham, and colorful veggies come together in this tropical-inspired dish. The sweet and salty combination gives each bite a lot of personality. It’s often served right in a hollowed-out pineapple for extra flair. Great as a side or stand-alone dinner.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice

PF Chang’s Fried Rice – Copycat Recipe

This at-home version brings in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil for the signature savory depth. It’s usually packed with scrambled eggs, vegetables, and your choice of protein. Cooked on high heat for that signature wok flavor. It comes together fast and tastes just like takeout.
Get the Recipe: PF Chang’s Fried Rice – Copycat Recipe

Hibachi Fried Rice

Cooked on a flat grill or a hot skillet with butter, soy sauce, and garlic, this version is all about texture and sear. Scrambled eggs and chopped vegetables are mixed in right before serving. You can add steak, chicken, or shrimp for a full meal. It’s rich, smoky, and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Hibachi Fried Rice

Authentic Shrimp Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout!)

Shrimp are quickly seared, then folded into rice with eggs, peas, and scallions. High heat is key to keeping everything crisp without overcooking. Garlic and a splash of sesame oil finish it off. It’s fast, flavorful, and hits all the right notes.
Get the Recipe: Authentic Shrimp Fried Rice (Better Than Takeout!)

Ham Fried Rice

Diced ham gives this dish a salty, satisfying flavor that works well with eggs and rice. It’s easy to make from pantry and fridge staples. Frozen peas or chopped carrots can add color and sweetness. Great for breakfast or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice

Nigerian Fried Rice

This West African version is often made with liver or shrimp and seasoned with curry powder, thyme, and mixed vegetables. The rice is vibrant, slightly spicy, and full of bold flavors. The ingredients are cooked separately to keep the texture light and each component distinct. It’s bold, colorful, and always satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Fried Rice

Brisket Fried Rice

Leftover brisket adds smokiness and richness to this unexpected fried rice. The meat breaks down into tender, flavorful bites. It’s a great way to stretch barbecue leftovers. Toss in some sautéed onions or a fried egg to round it out.
Get the Recipe: Brisket Fried Rice

Filipino Fried Rice

This version, often called “sinangag,” uses garlic as its main flavor and is typically paired with salty meats like tocino or longganisa. The rice is cooked until it gets just a bit of crunch at the edges. It’s simple but deeply flavorful. Usually topped with a fried egg.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Fried Rice

Spam Fried Rice

Cubes of pan-fried spam give this rice a salty, crispy edge that’s tough to beat. Often paired with eggs, scallions, and soy sauce, it’s fast and filling. A splash of rice vinegar or sriracha can take it further. Great for when the fridge is running low.
Get the Recipe: Spam Fried Rice

Bacon Fried Rice

Crispy bacon pieces bring a smoky kick, and the fat helps coat the rice for a silky texture. Add scrambled eggs and some scallions to round it out. It’s a crowd-pleaser that disappears fast. A little chili oil wouldn’t hurt either.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Rice

Basil Fried Rice

Fresh basil leaves are stir-fried with chili, garlic, and protein like chicken or shrimp. The aroma is unmistakable, and the spice level can be adjusted to taste. It’s fast and loaded with Thai-inspired flavor. Often served with a lime wedge for extra zing.
Get the Recipe: Basil Fried Rice

Thai Fried Rice

This version uses jasmine rice for a lighter, more fragrant base, and is typically seasoned with fish sauce, sugar, and lime. It often includes protein like shrimp or chicken and fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. A runny egg or cucumber slices are common sides. It’s all about contrast—salty, sour, and sweet.
Get the Recipe: Thai Fried Rice

Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice (Easy Homemade Recipe)

Tender pieces of chicken and pineapple are stir-fried with rice in a lightly sweet sauce. The chicken gets a bit of caramelization while the fruit softens slightly. Soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of ginger round things out. It’s a balanced mix of savory and tropical.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Chicken Fried Rice (Easy Homemade Recipe)

Spicy Egg Fried Rice

A quick dish with heat from chili oil or sauce, balanced by the richness of scrambled eggs. The rice is toasted in the pan just enough to add a bit of crisp. Green onions and garlic bring in freshness. It’s simple but bold, and easy to scale up.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Egg Fried Rice

Garlic Fried Rice

Golden, crispy garlic is the focus here, adding aroma and crunch to every bite. It works as a base for other dishes or holds its own as a side. A little fish sauce or soy adds depth. Easy to make but big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Fried Rice