22 Dishes That Actually Make Good Use Of Leftover Rice

Leftover rice isn’t going to get any better just sitting in the fridge. It dries out, clumps together, and eventually gets tossed because no one knows what to do with it, but it’s actually one of the easiest leftovers to turn into something great. Fried rice is the obvious move, but there are tons of variations on it and plenty of other ways to make it crispy, saucy, stuffed, or baked without it feeling like a sad repeat of last night’s dinner.

Tofu Fried Rice

Fast, flavorful, and an easy way to clean out the fridge. This tofu fried rice brings takeout vibes without the wait time.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Fried Rice

Pineapple Fried Rice

Sweet pineapple, crunchy veggies, and bold Thai flavors make this fried rice stand out. A great way to turn leftovers into something better.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Fried Rice

Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice

Leftover rice just found its purpose. This fried rice throws together shrimp, chicken, and veggies in one easy, flavor-packed dish. Skip the takeout and make this in less time than it takes to decide what to order.
Get the Recipe: Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice

Chicken Fried Rice

No need to call for delivery when you can make this right at home. Packed with chicken, veggies, and perfectly seasoned rice, this is one of those quick, throw-together meals that actually tastes great.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice

Easy Taco Bowl

A fast way to use up rice while keeping dinner exciting. Load up your bowl with whatever toppings you like—this one’s all about making dinner work for you.
Get the Recipe: Easy Taco Bowl

Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice

A one-pan meal that’s always a hit. Chicken, shrimp, and leftover rice come together in a dish that’s packed with flavor and easy to throw together on a busy night.
Get the Recipe: Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice

Golden Fried Rice

This isn’t just another fried rice. It’s golden, rich, and comes together in ten minutes with pantry staples. Leftover rice just leveled up.
Get the Recipe: Golden Fried Rice

Kimchi Bacon Fried Rice

Crispy bacon and spicy kimchi take this fried rice to another level. It’s fast, bold, and exactly what you need when you’re staring at that container of leftover rice.
Get the Recipe: Kimchi Bacon Fried Rice

Adobo Fried Rice

Five ingredients. Ten minutes. A cheap, fast, and ridiculously flavorful way to turn leftover rice into a great meal.
Get the Recipe: Adobo Fried Rice

Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

Love sushi but hate the work? This turns leftover rice into a deconstructed sushi roll baked to perfection. Less effort, great flavor.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Salmon Sushi Bake

Arancini

Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside. These fried risotto balls turn leftover rice into a snack or appetizer that people actually get excited about.
Get the Recipe: Arancini

Crispy Rice Salad

Leftover rice meets a crunchy, fresh upgrade. It’s packed with veggies, tossed with bold seasonings, and can handle any protein you throw on top.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Rice Salad

Chicken Teriyaki Fried Rice

Got leftover rice? Throw it in a pan with chicken and teriyaki sauce for a quick, no-fail dinner that’s ready in 20 minutes.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Teriyaki Fried Rice

Ham Fried Rice

Leftover holiday ham? Perfect. This fried rice puts it to work in the best way possible. Quick, easy, and straight to the point.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice

Tofu Buddha Bowl with Peanut Sauce

Crispy tofu, fresh veggies, and rice all tied together with a bold peanut sauce. A great way to clean out the fridge and make something actually worth eating.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Buddha Bowl with Peanut Sauce

Rice Salad with Tuna

This quick rice salad is packed with protein and makes lunch easy. No reheating, no hassle—just mix it up and you’re set.
Get the Recipe: Rice Salad with Tuna

Nasi Goreng

Indonesia’s version of fried rice, packed with bold flavors and topped with a fried egg. If you’ve got day-old rice, this is one of the best ways to use it.
Get the Recipe: Nasi Goreng

Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Rice, chicken, and broccoli all baked in a creamy sauce. Simple, filling, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Broccoli Casserole

Shakshuka With Rice and Greens

A fast, one-pan meal where rice soaks up a rich tomato sauce and runny eggs. It’s great for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Shakshuka With Rice and Greens

Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl

Spicy, saucy, and packed with flavor. This rice bowl makes the most out of leftovers while keeping dinner interesting.
Get the Recipe: Buffalo Chicken Rice Bowl

Green Curry Fried Rice

Thai green curry meets fried rice in this quick, no-effort meal. Toss in whatever veggies you have, and you’re good to go.
Get the Recipe: Green Curry Fried Rice

Italian Meatball Soup

Rice gives this tomato-based meatball soup some extra heartiness. Simple ingredients, minimal prep, and a bowl full of comfort.
Get the Recipe: Italian Meatball Soup