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 (carrots, peas, corn); 2 eggs, beaten; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 green onions, sliced; 1 clove garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is a quick and delicious way to use up leftover rice and vegetables, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.

Created by

Vanessa Doyle

Last updated on 2025-12-30T00:58:15.768Z

This Chicken Fried Rice recipe is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile. You can easily add your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own. Perfect for using up leftovers!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights
Deliciously savory with a hint of garlic and soy sauce
A great way to use up leftover rice and veggies

      

Perfect for Leftovers

This Budget-Friendly Chicken Fried Rice Recipe is an excellent way to transform your leftover rice and chicken into a delightful meal. Instead of letting those ingredients go to waste, you can create a dish that's not only tasty but also economical. With just a few additional ingredients, you can whip up a satisfying dinner that the whole family will love.

Using leftover vegetables adds a nutritious touch to your fried rice. Whether you have some wilted carrots or frozen peas lying around, they can easily be incorporated into the dish. This recipe encourages creativity, allowing you to experiment with whatever you have on hand while keeping your grocery bill low.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best features of this chicken fried rice recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the protein or vegetables based on your preferences or dietary needs. If you have leftover shrimp, beef, or tofu, they can all be delicious alternatives to chicken. Similarly, feel free to add or replace vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and flavor.

This recipe can also be adjusted for different spice levels. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding some chili flakes or sriracha sauce to bring the dish to life. Customization allows you to cater the recipe to your family's taste buds, making it a meal everyone can enjoy.

Quick and Easy Weeknight Meal

In today's fast-paced world, quick and easy meals are a necessity. This chicken fried rice comes together in just about 20 minutes, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights. With minimal prep work and a short cooking time, you can have a hearty meal on the table in no time, leaving you more time to relax or spend with your loved ones.

Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also requires just one pan. This means less cleanup for you, which is always a win after a long day. Plus, with all the flavors mingling in one skillet, the result is a deeply satisfying dish that's sure to please.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Make sure to use cold, leftover rice for the best texture!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and have them ready to go. This will help the cooking process go smoothly.

Cook the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

Add the remaining oil to the skillet. Sauté the minced garlic and mixed vegetables for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked rice and shredded chicken to the skillet. Pour in the soy sauce and stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes until heated through.

Add Eggs and Serve

Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet, add the green onions, and season with salt and pepper. Mix well and serve hot.

Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken fried rice!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use uncooked rice instead of cooked rice? While this recipe is designed for using cooked rice, you can use uncooked rice if you prefer. Just cook the rice first according to package instructions, then proceed with the recipe. This will ensure your fried rice has the right texture and flavor.

What if I don't have soy sauce? If you find yourself out of soy sauce, you can substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option or use coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative. Both will impart a similar umami flavor to your dish.

Storage Tips

Leftover chicken fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a great option for meal prepping. Just reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through before serving again.

If you want to store it for longer, consider freezing it. Place the fried rice in freezer-safe bags or containers, and it can last for up to three months in the freezer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and heat on the stove for the best texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

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

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or any leftover vegetables you have on hand.

→ How do I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and use tofu or additional vegetables for protein.