Chicken fried rice is a classic dish that’s beloved all over the world for its convenience, versatility, and downright deliciousness But after one too many takeout boxes, it can start to feel a bit repetitive. If you find yourself wondering “what to cook with chicken fried rice?” to liven things up, you’ve come to the right place!
In this article, we’ll explore 20 amazing meal ideas to serve alongside chicken fried rice. From light appetizers to hearty mains, these recipes complement the savory umami flavors of the fried rice beautifully. With a little creativity chicken fried rice can be so much more than just a boring leftover meal. Let’s get cooking!
Lighter Appetizers and Sides
These appetizer and side dish recipes add a refreshing brightness and contrast of textures to complement the hearty fried rice.
1. Edamame
Nutty, protein-packed edamame makes a satisfying appetizer or side. Toss the steamed pods with a little sesame oil, soy sauce, and chili flakes for a spicy kick. The crunchy beans pair perfectly with the tender rice grains.
2. Miso Soup
A steaming bowl of miso soup provides a light, comforting contrast to the richness of chicken fried rice. Its delicate umami broth washes nicely between bites of food. Add soft tofu, seaweed, and scallions for garnish.
3. Cucumber Salad
A cool cucumber salad in a tangy rice vinegar dressing cuts through the heaviness of fried rice beautifully. We love Japanese cucumber sunomono, but a basic cucumber salad works great too.
4. Vegetable Spring Rolls
Crispy veggie spring rolls are a tasty pre-meal snack alongside chicken fried rice. The combination of crunchy wrapper and fresh filling is hard to beat. DIY spring rolls are healthier and fresher tasting than store-bought.
5. Steamed Vegetables
Quick-cooked vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, bok choy, or asparagus make an easy veggie side. Toss them with a little sesame oil, oyster sauce, and garlic for flavor. The crunch and brightness balance the rice perfectly.
Hearty Mains and Large Plates
Ramp up your chicken fried rice meal with these hearty mains that complement the rice’s savory flavors.
6. Mongolian Beef
Sliced beef tossed in a brown sauce has amazing synergy with chicken fried rice. The tender beef and sweet/savory glaze are perfectly foiled by the fried rice. Serve over rice, or try wrapping in lettuce cups.
7. Kung Pao Chicken
Spicy kung pao chicken is a classic pairing for chicken fried rice. Wok-seared chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and plenty of chili make a satisfying flavor and textural contrast to the rice.
8. Sweet and Sour Pork
Chinese-style sweet and sour pork is a beloved partner for chicken fried rice. The sweet, bright sauce complements the rice’s savory umami notes. A true takeout fakeout meal.
9. Shrimp Skewers
Char-grilled shrimp skewers marinated in garlic, ginger and lemongrass are an amazing protein pairing. Alternate bites of smoky shrimp with fried rice for flavor bliss.
10. Korean Bulgogi
Thin slices of Korean barbecued beef make a fantastic topping for chicken fried rice. The sweet and salty marinated beef mingles deliciously with the rice. Add a fried egg for the perfect protein boost.
More Unique Fried Rice Accompaniments
Here are 10 more unique, globally inspired dishes that make incredible complements to basic chicken fried rice. Expand your culinary horizons!
11. Kimchi
Spicy, funky kimchi is a fantastic palate cleanser between bites of chicken fried rice. The combination of tastes and textures is stellar. Even just a simple cucumber kimchi banchan would pair nicely.
12. Tom Yum Soup
Tom yum’s hot, sour, herbal broth makes a stellar starter before chicken fried rice. The Thai soup’s intense flavors contrast beautifully with the comforting fried rice.
13. Chicken Tikka Masala
Chicken tikka masala’s creamy, lightly spiced tomato gravy pairs divinely with chicken fried rice’s flavors. Scoop the curry over the fried rice for an instant flavor explosion.
14. Caprese Salad
A fresh caprese salad with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil makes a lighter, brighter accompaniment to chicken fried rice’s richness. The flavors meld beautifully.
15. Vegetarian Chili
A warm bowl of vegetarian chili complements chicken fried rice wonderfully. Alternate spoonfuls of each, and enjoy the interplay of spicy, savory, and comforting flavors.
16. Greek Salad
A bright Greek salad tossed in a lemony dressing provides the perfect fresh contrast to savor between bites of chicken fried rice. Feta, olives, tomatoes, and crisp greens are so refreshing.
17. Tacos
Tacos might seem unorthodox, but they’re amazing with chicken fried rice. Fill tortillas with your favorite fixings, then alternate tasty bites of tacos and rice together.
18. Samosas
These crispy Indian pastries pair incredibly well with chicken fried rice. Alternate bites of flaky samosa with tender rice for an explosion of flavors and textures.
19. Fried Green Tomatoes
Southern fried green tomatoes make a deliciously unexpected accompaniment for chicken fried rice. The interplay of crispy, tangy tomato and savory rice is stellar.
20. Banana Fritters
Crisp, warm banana fritters served alongside chicken fried rice make for a sweet and comforting dessert pairing. The contrast of sweet bananas and salty soy is delightful.
Endless Possibilities for Tasty Chicken Fried Rice Meals
As you can see, the possibilities are endless when it comes to cooking up amazing chicken fried rice meal pairings. With a little creativity, you can take this staple dish to spectacular new heights.
Next time you’re left with leftover chicken fried rice, don’t settle for boring leftovers. Use it as an opportunity to explore new flavors. Try out a global cuisine, mix up your proteins, add some crunch, and find your new favorite fried rice combinations. Just don’t forget to invite me for dinner!
My Go-To For Leftover Rice
Back in my college days, this Chicken Fried Rice was one of the first meals I actually managed to make without burning down the kitchen. It was simple, cheap, and most importantly foolproof.
The real trick? Leftover rice. Day old rice is non-negotiable if you want that perfect fried rice texture. To this day, anytime I have extra rice hanging out in the fridge, this is the first thing I think of. And honestly, I never get tired of it. It’s fast, it’s satisfying, and it’s super easy to throw in whatever protein or veggies I’ve got lying around.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken Fried Rice
- Because it’s fried rice! Who doesn’t love salty, savory, eggy, garlicky fried rice? If you say you don’t, we can’t be friends.
- Leftover rice finally earns its keep. Day old rice? That sad container shoved in the back of the fridge? This is its moment.
- It’s the lazy cook’s dream. One pan, minimal chopping, and no babysitting. Blink and dinner’s done.
- Use what you’ve got. Chicken, shrimp, tofu, bacon, mystery meat from the freezer, this recipe doesn’t judge.
- Tastes like takeout, but better. And no tip required. Unless you count you tipping yourself a glass of wine while it sizzles.
Chicken Fried Rice – EASY DINNER under 30 Minutes
FAQ
What does chicken fried rice go well with?
If you have the extra time, some of the best side dishes & appetizers are green green beans, bok choy with oyster sauce, egg rolls, spring rolls, & dumplings! The best part about fried rice is that it’s SO versatile. Whether you’re creating a full spread or quick meal with a fried egg, you really can’t go wrong.
What is fried rice best served with?
- Stir-Fried Beef and Broccoli.
- Shrimp with Lobster Sauce.
- Braised Shiitake Mushrooms with Baby Bok Choy.
- General Tso’s Chicken.
- Garlic Green Beans.
What goes well with chicken rice?
Go with cozy picks like Pumpkin Soup, Garlic Bread, or Mashed Sweet Potatoes. If you’re feeding a crowd, bulk up the meal with Dinner Rolls or Ambrosia Salad.Sep 27, 2023
How long does it take to cook chicken fried rice?
Took about 10 minutes. Got stuff home and it was decent. Chicken balls are smaller than most places, but you get a lot of them, and the red sauce has a unique (good) taste to it that makes it different from other places. Chicken fried rice is good and there were lots of veggies in the General Tao chicken.
How do you cook basmati rice?
In a pot, combine basmati rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, and allow to cook covered for 15 minutes or until it can be fluffed with a fork. In a large skillet on medium-high heat, warm olive oil. Add onions, garlic, and ginger and cook for 1-2 minutes until tender.
Can you make chicken fried rice at home?
A takeout staple, fried rice is comfort food at its finest. You can quickly pull leftovers into a dish of crispy rice studded with crisp vegetables and tender chicken. Making chicken fried rice at home is as simple as memorizing the order of ingredients and using the right pan for the job. Learn more basics here: How To Make Fried Rice