Budget-Friendly Chicken Fried Rice Recipe

Name: Budget-Friendly Chicken Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup cooked chicken, diced; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a quick and delicious way to turn leftover chicken and rice into a satisfying meal. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Created by

Bethany Clarke

Last updated on 2025-12-30T01:31:14.728Z

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Fried Rice is a great way to use up leftover chicken and rice. It's packed with flavor and can be made in under 30 minutes!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
Customizable with your choice of vegetables
Deliciously savory and satisfying

      

A Versatile Meal for Any Day

Chicken fried rice is not only a delicious dish but also incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or use whatever ingredients you have on hand. Whether you have some leftover vegetables, different proteins, or even a splash of hot sauce, this recipe allows for creativity in the kitchen. It's an excellent way to use up those odds and ends in your fridge while still creating a meal that everyone will love.

This dish is perfect for those times when you're short on time or ingredients. With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up a tasty meal in no time. The simplicity of fried rice makes it a go-to choice for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. Plus, it's a great way to impress family or friends with your cooking skills, even if you think you're not a master chef!

Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken fried rice is not only satisfying but also offers a balanced meal with protein, carbohydrates, and vegetables. The chicken provides lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health. The mixed vegetables add a variety of vitamins and minerals, making this dish a nutritious option for any meal. Additionally, using brown rice instead of white can increase fiber content, promoting better digestion and sustained energy levels throughout the day.

By controlling the ingredients, you can make this dish healthier. Opting for less oil, incorporating more vegetables, or choosing low-sodium soy sauce can elevate the nutritional profile of your fried rice. This makes it a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle while enjoying their favorite flavors.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of chicken fried rice is its suitability for meal prep. You can make a large batch and portion it out for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week. Store the fried rice in airtight containers in the fridge, and it will keep well for several days. Reheating is a breeze—just pop it in the microwave or reheat it in a skillet for a quick meal that tastes just as good as when it was freshly made.

Meal prepping with chicken fried rice allows you to save time and money while ensuring you have a nutritious meal ready to go. It's a fantastic way to avoid the temptation of takeout or unhealthy snacks, keeping you on track with your dietary goals. Plus, the flavors often deepen after a day in the fridge, making it an even more enjoyable dish the next time you serve it.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Chicken Fried Rice

2 cups cooked rice
1 cup cooked chicken, diced
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
3 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are prepped before starting to cook for the best results!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and ensure the rice and chicken are cold to help prevent sticking.

Cook the Eggs

In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Stir-fry the Vegetables and Chicken

Add the mixed vegetables and cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Add Rice and Seasonings

Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Finish with Eggs and Green Onions

Stir in the scrambled eggs and chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Enjoy your homemade chicken fried rice!

Serving Suggestions

Chicken fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but if you're looking to add more variety, consider serving it with a side of egg rolls or dumplings. These crispy appetizers complement the soft texture of the fried rice while adding an extra layer of flavor. A light salad with a citrus dressing can also balance the savory elements of the dish, providing a refreshing contrast.

For those who enjoy a bit of spice, serve your chicken fried rice with Sriracha or chili sauce on the side. This allows everyone to customize their heat level, making the meal enjoyable for all palates. You can also garnish the dish with sesame seeds or additional chopped green onions for a pop of color and flavor.

Storage Tips

To maximize freshness, store any leftover chicken fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to four days, allowing you to enjoy your meal prep throughout the week. If you want to keep it longer, chicken fried rice can be frozen for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.

When reheating frozen fried rice, it's best to let it thaw in the fridge overnight. This ensures even heating and a better texture when reheated. You can also add a splash of water or soy sauce when reheating to prevent it from drying out, keeping each bite deliciously moist and flavorful.

Customization Ideas

One of the best features of chicken fried rice is its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the chicken for other proteins such as shrimp, beef, or tofu, depending on your dietary preferences. Likewise, you can adjust the vegetables based on what's in season or what you have available. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas are all excellent additions that can enhance both the flavor and nutritional value of the dish.

For those who enjoy a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce to the mix. These sauces can elevate the overall taste profile, giving your fried rice an authentic restaurant-style touch. Experimenting with different seasonings, such as garlic or ginger, can also add depth and complexity, making each batch uniquely yours.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used for a healthier option, but it may require a longer cooking time.

→ What other proteins can I use?

You can substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef depending on your preference.

→ Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes during the cooking process for an extra kick.