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, shredded; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 eggs, beaten; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a quick and easy meal that transforms leftover rice into a delicious dish, perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Lacey Montgomery

Last updated on 2025-12-28T20:10:10.591Z

This chicken fried rice is not only budget-friendly but also a delightful way to use leftover ingredients. Packed with protein and veggies, it’s a complete meal in one bowl!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Uses affordable ingredients without compromising on flavor
Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies

      

The Benefits of Using Leftover Rice

Leftover rice is a fantastic base for many dishes, and chicken fried rice is no exception. Not only does it help reduce food waste, but it also saves you time and money. With just a little planning, you can cook a larger batch of rice and store it in the fridge for quick meals later in the week. This not only makes meal prep easier but also ensures that you always have a delicious and filling option at your fingertips.

Using leftover rice also enhances the texture of your fried rice. When rice cools, it firms up, making it less likely to become mushy during cooking. This results in a delightful bite that elevates the overall dish. Whether it's from last night's dinner or a batch you made specifically for this recipe, leftover rice is a key ingredient that will help you whip up a satisfying meal in no time.

Customizing Your Fried Rice

One of the best things about this chicken fried rice recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have in your fridge or your personal preferences. If you’re a fan of spicy food, consider adding some chili sauce or sliced jalapeños for an extra kick. Alternatively, if you want a more refreshing flavor, toss in some chopped bell peppers or snap peas.

Feel free to switch up the protein as well! While this recipe calls for shredded chicken, you can substitute it with cooked shrimp, tofu, or even beef. The key is to ensure that whatever protein you choose is pre-cooked, as this dish comes together quickly and requires minimal cooking time once everything is in the skillet. This makes it an excellent option for using up whatever you might have on hand.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

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

Feel free to add any additional vegetables or proteins you have on hand!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and ensure your rice is cooked and cooled. This helps to prevent the rice from becoming mushy when frying.

Heat the Oil

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Scramble the Eggs

Add the beaten eggs to the skillet and scramble until fully cooked. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Chicken and Vegetables

Add the shredded chicken and mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes until heated through.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the cooked rice and soy sauce to the skillet. Mix everything together and stir-fry for another 3-5 minutes.

Finish the Dish

Add the scrambled eggs and chopped green onions back to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir until combined.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot. Enjoy your budget-friendly chicken fried rice!

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

To achieve the best results with your fried rice, it’s important to use rice that has been cooked and cooled. Freshly cooked rice tends to be sticky and clumps together, making it difficult to achieve that ideal fried rice texture. If you can, prepare your rice a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This will allow it to dry out slightly, ensuring each grain stays separate during cooking.

Another tip for perfect fried rice is to avoid overcrowding the pan. If you have a large amount of rice or ingredients, consider cooking them in batches. This will allow for even cooking and prevent steaming, which can lead to soggy rice. A hot skillet or wok is essential for getting that slight char and enhancing the flavors of the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken fried rice is a delicious standalone meal, but it can also be paired with other dishes for a more complete dinner. Consider serving it alongside a simple cucumber salad or some spring rolls for a delightful Asian-inspired feast. The fresh crunch of a salad can provide a nice contrast to the savory fried rice, making for a more balanced meal.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a side of spicy kimchi can complement the flavors of the fried rice beautifully. You can also serve it with a drizzle of soy sauce or sesame oil on top for an extra layer of flavor. No matter how you choose to serve it, this budget-friendly dish is sure to please!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice can be used, but it may require more cooking time.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ Can I add other proteins?

Absolutely! Shrimp, pork, or tofu can be great additions.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.