Fried rice is one of those meals that just works. It’s simple, filling, and comes together fast with things you probably already have.
Whether you like bold spices, prefer something meat-free, or need a dish that fits a certain diet, there’s a version here that’ll fit.
This list brings together 19+ fried rice recipes that show how flexible this dish can be. Some are rich and comforting; others are light and fresh. A few bring in heat, while others keep it mellow.
Take a look and see which one fits what you’re in the mood for today.
1. Hibachi Garlic Butter Fried Rice
This Japanese-style fried rice keeps it simple but full of flavor. The combo of soft scrambled egg, sautéed veggies, and plenty of garlic butter gives every bite a rich, savory taste. It’s the kind of fried rice that works well as a side dish or even the main course with a protein on top.
You can try this garlicky hibachi-style rice with this recipe for hibachi garlic butter fried rice.
2. Thai Basil Chicken Fried Rice
Fragrant Thai basil gives this dish a fresh, peppery flavor that stands out. Ground chicken and chilies bring in the heat, while the rice soaks up all the spicy-sweet sauce. It’s a great pick when you want something quick but packed with flavor.
Make a batch with this Thai-inspired chicken and basil fried rice from this recipe.
3. Lemongrass Chicken Fried Rice
Bright and bold, this fried rice is filled with the citrusy aroma of lemongrass. The marinated chicken is cooked with garlic and chilies, giving the dish a gentle heat. It’s refreshing but still hearty enough to stand alone.
Check out the full lemongrass chicken rice recipe right here.
4. Truffle Mushroom Fried Rice
This one is all about earthy richness. Buttered mushrooms and a drizzle of truffle oil make this rice extra comforting and flavorful. It feels a little fancy but is surprisingly easy to pull together for a cozy dinner.
Get the details for this buttery mushroom truffle rice in this recipe.
5. Furikake Tuna Fried Rice
With canned tuna, soy sauce, and sesame oil, this is a quick and easy meal that still feels complete. The furikake adds a crunchy, salty finish that ties it all together. Great for lunch or a fast weeknight dinner.
Try this tuna and furikake fried rice by following this recipe.
6. Egg Fried Rice with Scallion Oil
Fluffy rice and scrambled egg are tossed in fragrant scallion oil for a simple, satisfying dish. It’s mild in flavor but rich in aroma, perfect for serving on its own or with stir-fried veggies or meat.
Give this scallion oil egg rice a go using this recipe.
7. Cauliflower Veggie Fried Rice
This lighter take on fried rice swaps in cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It’s still colorful and filling thanks to the mix of veggies, and works great as a side or a quick veggie-packed lunch.
Follow this easy cauliflower veggie rice with this recipe.
8. Mushroom Garlic Fried Rice
With sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and soy sauce, this fried rice has deep flavor and just the right amount of saltiness. It’s a great side dish that also works well with a fried egg or tofu on top.
You can find this garlicky mushroom rice recipe here.
9. Bacon and Corn Fried Rice
Crispy bacon and sweet corn make this fried rice smoky and a little sweet. It’s a satisfying combo that’s great on its own or served with a runny egg on top.
Make this bacon-corn rice combo with help from this recipe.
10. Indian-Style Masala Fried Rice
This version uses basmati rice, turmeric, and garam masala for warm, spiced flavor. Mixed veggies add color and texture, making it a complete meal on its own.
Try this Indian masala-style fried rice by following this recipe.
11. Filipino Sinangag (Garlic Fried Rice)
This extra-garlicky fried rice is a Filipino breakfast favorite. It’s usually served with eggs and meat on the side, but it’s tasty enough to enjoy on its own too.
Make your own Filipino garlic rice with this recipe.
12. Korean Bulgogi Beef Fried Rice
Sweet and savory bulgogi beef takes center stage in this hearty rice dish. The meat adds plenty of flavor, and a touch of sesame oil gives it a nice finish.
Follow along with this bulgogi beef fried rice recipe right here.
13. Vegan Tofu Fried Rice with Peanut Sauce
This fried rice is tossed with crispy tofu and coated in a rich, creamy peanut sauce. It’s plant-based but still filling and flavorful. A great pick for meatless days.
Try this vegan tofu and peanut rice with this recipe.
14. Japanese Curry Fried Rice
Leftover Japanese curry finds new life in this hearty fried rice. The curry adds a rich, stew-like flavor, making each bite extra warming and satisfying.
Warm up with this curry fried rice recipe found here.
15. Breakfast Fried Rice with Sausage & Egg
This morning-friendly version has sausage, egg, and melted cheese mixed right into the rice. It’s a fun, savory way to change up your usual breakfast.
Check out this breakfast-style sausage and egg rice in this recipe.
16. Cottage Cheese Kimchi Fried Rice
This dish mixes the tangy spice of kimchi with the creamy texture of cottage cheese. It’s a bold combo that balances heat with a little creaminess.
Give this kimchi and cottage cheese rice a go using this recipe.
17. Sweet Chilli Garlic Fried Rice
Sweet chili sauce brings a mild kick to this garlic-forward fried rice. It’s flavorful without being too spicy, and pairs well with chicken or tofu.
Try this sweet and spicy garlic rice using this recipe.
18. Curry Pineapple Fried Rice
This dish blends curry spices with sweet pineapple for a fun mix of savory and fruity. It’s bright and colorful, great for a summer meal or to serve with grilled meat.
Check out the full pineapple curry rice recipe here.
19. Spicy Schezwan Fried Basmati Rice (Indo‑Chinese Style)
This one brings serious heat. Schezwan sauce coats the basmati rice, creating a spicy, tangy dish that’s perfect for fans of bold flavor.
Make your own Indo-Chinese style Schezwan rice with this recipe.
20. Kimchi Sesame Fried Egg Rice
Fried rice gets a tangy upgrade from kimchi, with toasted sesame oil and a fried egg rounding it out. It’s savory, spicy, and ready fast.
Try this easy kimchi and sesame rice by following this recipe.
Final Thoughts
Fried rice is one of the easiest ways to turn leftovers or pantry staples into something warm and filling.
From spicy to mild, veggie-packed to meat-heavy, these recipes offer plenty of choices depending on what you’re craving.
No matter which one you try, the key is starting with cold rice and building layers of flavor from simple ingredients.
There’s a lot you can do with just a pan and a few basics—these recipes are a great place to start.