If you’ve got leftover rice and some chicken in the fridge, you’re already halfway to a delicious meal. Chicken fried rice is that comforting, no-fuss dish we all crave—savory, satisfying, and super customizable.
Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole crew, there’s a fried rice variation out there with your name on it. We’ve gathered 20 fun and flavorful twists you can try at home, so let’s dive in and fire up that wok!
1. Classic Takeout-Style Chicken Fried Rice
This is your go-to comfort food with juicy chicken, scrambled eggs, carrots, peas, and green onions all tossed in seasoned soy sauce. It’s the version we all know and love—perfectly balanced, not too oily, and full of flavor. The key to mastering this is cold, day-old rice and high heat to get that signature texture. Pair it with a drizzle of sesame oil at the end for that iconic takeout taste.
2. Peanut Chicken Fried Rice
Inspired by Thai peanut sauce, this version adds creamy richness and bold flavor. Use shredded chicken and mix in a quick sauce of peanut butter, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of honey or brown sugar. Toss with rice and add shredded carrots or chopped bell peppers for crunch. Garnish with chopped peanuts and cilantro for a punch of flavor and texture.
3. Teriyaki Chicken Fried Rice
Sweet and savory meet in this teriyaki-inspired take. Use shredded or diced chicken coated in homemade or bottled teriyaki sauce. Add pineapple chunks, edamame, and bell peppers for a tropical flair. The sticky sauce caramelizes slightly in the pan, making every bite burst with umami goodness. It’s like having hibachi at home—minus the show. This version is perfect if you’re craving something a little different but still comforting.
4. Chicken Broccoli Fried Rice
If you love chicken and broccoli stir-fry, this is your match. Use chopped, steamed broccoli and tender chicken with rice to create a satisfying, well-balanced dish. A garlic-soy sauce blend adds flavor while keeping things light. This version is perfect for a weeknight meal that feels healthy but still delivers that craveable fried rice texture. It’s also great for sneaking in more greens for the kids (or yourself).
5. Cauliflower Chicken Fried Rice
Looking to cut carbs without sacrificing flavor? Swap out traditional rice for cauliflower rice. You still get that fried rice vibe but in a lighter, veggie-packed format. Use cooked, chopped chicken, scrambled eggs, and veggies like peas and carrots. Soy sauce, garlic, and a dash of sesame oil make this feel just like the real deal. It’s low-carb comfort food that’s easy to whip up in under 20 minutes.
6. Chicken Fried Rice with Kimchi
Kimchi adds a tangy, spicy edge that takes your fried rice to new heights. The fermented cabbage offers crunch and a hit of umami that complements chicken beautifully. Use leftover rice, add in chopped kimchi, and stir-fry with chicken, onions, and a touch of gochujang (Korean chili paste) for extra depth. This version is bold, flavorful, and great for when you’re craving something with a punch.
7. Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice
This fragrant version uses Thai basil to give your dish a sweet and peppery twist. Combine chicken, garlic, red chilies, and onions, then stir in soy sauce and fish sauce. Toss everything with rice and fresh Thai basil just before serving. It’s aromatic, spicy, and deeply satisfying. Perfect if you’re a fan of Thai takeout but want to recreate the experience at home with ease.
8. Honey Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
Sweet meets savory in this crowd-pleaser. Cube your chicken and coat it with a quick honey-garlic glaze before stir-frying with rice. Add in veggies like snap peas and carrots for crunch. The honey caramelizes slightly, giving each bite a sticky, golden finish. This version works well for both kids and adults, and it makes a great leftover lunch too.
9. BBQ Chicken Fried Rice
Ever wondered what would happen if BBQ met fried rice? Here’s your answer. Use shredded BBQ chicken—store-bought or homemade—and toss it with corn, black beans, and rice. A little BBQ sauce in the pan adds that smoky-sweet flavor, while green onions add freshness. This one’s perfect for summer nights or when you’ve got leftover grilled chicken from a weekend cookout.
10. Skillet Chicken with Rice, Zucchini and Corn
This summery combo is light, sweet, and satisfying. Zucchini adds moisture while corn brings a burst of sweetness to balance the savory chicken and soy sauce. Stir-fry everything together with garlic, green onions, and a splash of sesame oil. It’s an easy way to use up extra garden produce or frozen veggies and still get a meal that feels special.
11. Coconut Chicken Fried Rice
Coconut milk brings a rich, slightly sweet undertone to this island-inspired dish. Start by cooking your rice in coconut milk for extra flavor. Stir-fry with chicken, red bell peppers, onions, and chopped cilantro. Add a splash of lime juice and a dash of fish sauce for a tropical finish. It’s creamy, slightly exotic, and surprisingly easy to pull off. Ideal for when you want something outside the ordinary.
12. Chicken Fried Rice With Springtime Asparagus
This spring-inspired variation uses crisp-tender asparagus for a fresh, green twist. Cut the asparagus into bite-sized pieces and stir-fry with chicken and rice in a light soy-garlic sauce. The asparagus stays bright and slightly crunchy, adding texture to every bite. It’s a great way to celebrate seasonal produce and make a wholesome meal in one pan.
13. Garlic Chicken Fried Rice
This version is simple but packed with flavor. Sauté garlic in butter until golden, then add cooked chicken and rice. Stir-fry with a little soy sauce and finish with green onions and extra butter for richness. It’s indulgent without being over-the-top and makes a great base for adding other veggies or proteins. Sometimes, all you need is garlic and butter to make dinner special.
14. Buffalo Chicken Fried Rice
Love buffalo wings? Try this spicy, tangy twist. Use shredded buffalo chicken and toss it with rice, celery, and carrots. Add a dash of hot sauce and a sprinkle of blue cheese or ranch dressing on top. It’s a fun game-day variation that feels familiar but totally new. You’ll get all the bold flavors of your favorite wings—without needing napkins.
15. Mango Chicken Fried Rice
Take your fried rice to a tropical level by adding fresh mango chunks. The natural sweetness of the mango complements the savory chicken and other veggies, creating a vibrant dish with a mix of textures. This version is great for those who want a fruity, refreshing twist on traditional fried rice. Add some bell peppers and peas to balance the sweetness and add crunch, making it an easy yet exotic meal to enjoy anytime.
16. Sesame Chicken Fried Rice
Toast some sesame seeds and drizzle sesame oil over your fried rice for a nutty, rich flavor. The sesame oil gives the fried rice a signature taste that pairs beautifully with chicken and vegetables. This version is easy to prepare and brings depth to the dish, making it perfect for those who enjoy nutty, savory flavors. You can also sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top for added crunch, making it a simple yet flavorful dish.
17. Chicken, pineapple and cashew fried rice
For a tropical twist, toss in some pineapple chunks and crunchy cashews. The sweetness of the pineapple adds a refreshing contrast to the savory chicken, while the cashews provide a satisfying crunch. This fried rice is perfect for anyone looking to combine sweet and salty flavors. The combination of chicken, rice, pineapple, and cashews creates a well-balanced dish that’s perfect for a summer meal or anytime you want to bring some tropical flair to your dinner table.
18. Vegan Chicken Fried Rice
For a meat-free version, use tofu or plant-based chicken alternatives instead of regular chicken. This dish is great for vegetarians and those trying to reduce their meat consumption without sacrificing flavor. Tofu soaks up the soy sauce and seasonings, mimicking the texture of chicken in this fried rice. Add colorful veggies like peas, carrots, and bell peppers for an extra dose of nutrition, making it a hearty, protein-packed dish that’s both satisfying and tasty.
19. Jerk Chicken Fried Rice
For a bold, flavorful take, add Caribbean jerk-seasoned chicken to your fried rice. The spicy, aromatic seasoning blends perfectly with the tender chicken and fried rice, creating a dish that’s packed with heat and flavor. Bell peppers, onions, and allspice add complexity to this dish, making it a fantastic way to bring the tastes of the Caribbean to your dinner table. This version is perfect for anyone who enjoys a spicy, exotic flair in their meals.
20. Cilantro Lime Chicken Fried Rice
A refreshing cilantro-lime twist on your standard fried rice adds a burst of freshness. The cilantro gives the rice an aromatic, herbaceous flavor, while the lime provides a tangy, citrusy kick. This fried rice pairs well with chicken, and the bright, zesty flavors make it perfect for a light, healthy meal. It’s a great dish to enjoy during warmer months, providing a refreshing and vibrant twist on a classic comfort food.
