Today [Neal] rounds up some of [his] favorites— from the classic base recipe to some bold flavor twists you might not expect. **One rule applies to every recipe below: always use cold, day-old rice. Fresh rice is too moist and will steam instead of fry. Cook it the night before, spread it on a sheet pan, and refrigerate it overnight. That one step makes all the difference.**
Classic Griddle Fried Rice. The foundation recipe if you get this one down the rest is easy. This is where I tell people to start. It uses simple pantry ingredients and basic technique, and once you nail it you’ll never need to order fried rice from a restaurant again. It’s the perfect side dish for hibachi night or just an easy weeknight meal all on its own. Full recipe here Classic Griddle Fried Rice
Spam Fried Rice. Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it — this is one serious crowd pleaser. Spam is huge in Hawaiian culture, and once you get those crispy caramelized edges on the Spam from the hot griddle, you’ll completely understand why. Try my recipe here Spam Fried Rice
Chicken Fried Rice. We’ve actually made this recipe and tested it side-by-side with 2 different Chinese takeout restaurants, and THIS beat both of the restaurant versions! Thin-sliced seasoned chicken, perfectly fried rice, and a simple blend of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil — it always delivers. Get the full recipe hereGriddle Chicken Fried Rice
Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice: Southern comfort meets the flat top — bold, smoky flavor. We’re talking Cajun-seasoned shrimp, andouille sausage, bell peppers, okra, and onions all coming together. It’s like fried rice and jambalaya had a baby, and that baby is absolutely delicious. Get the full recipe here Cajun Shrimp Fried Rice
Tropical Jerk Chicken Fried Rice. This one tastes like a vacation on a plate — definitely the most unique recipe in the bunch. Jasmine rice cooked in coconut milk, pineapple, and spicy Jamaican jerk-marinated chicken — the combination of heat, sweetness, and creamy coconut is unlike anything else I’ve put on the griddle. Get the full recipe here — Tropical Jerk Chicken Fried Rice
Mexican Fried Rice with Chicken: Taco night just got a major griddle upgrade. Marinated chicken, fire-roasted corn, black beans, and peppers, finished with fresh cilantro and lime — this one hits EVERY single time. If your family loves Mexican food as much as we do, this recipe will be on regular rotation. Get the full recipe here Mexican Fried Rice with Chicken
Steak and Mushroom Fried Rice, Steakhouse-style, all cooked on the flat top. Your favorite cut of steak, loaded into a buttery mushroom herb fried rice, then drizzled with yum yum sauce — this is the most indulgent recipe in the roundup. Save this one for when you really want to treat the family. Get the full recipe hereSteak and Mushroom Fried Rice
