Fried rice is a go-to comfort food—quick, flavorful, and loaded with tasty ingredients like eggs, veggies, and a savory blend of seasonings. Whether you’re making it at home or grabbing takeout, it’s a dish that never disappoints.

But why stop at just fried rice? Pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal with new textures and flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something crispy, refreshing, or extra savory, there’s a perfect match for your plate.

From classic egg drop soup to crispy dumplings and fresh stir-fried greens, these 13 side dishes will turn a simple bowl of fried rice into a full-on feast.

1.Chinese Broccoli

Meet Gai Lan, a leafier, crunchier cousin of regular broccoli. With its fat leaves and stems, this Chinese broccoli offers a delightful mix of mildly bitter and sweet flavors.

To enjoy it, simply steam it until tender and serve with fresh mushrooms for a burst of earthy goodness.

It’s the perfect way to balance a plate of fried rice, adding a light, healthy contrast and a vibrant pop of color to your meal.

2.Egg Drop Soup

Egg drop soup is a classic Chinese favorite that’s light, comforting, and easy to love.

Since fried rice is already packed with flavor, this soup is the perfect complement–it’s gentle on the palate and won’t weigh you down.

With its delicate, silky texture and subtle flavors, it’s an ideal starter that leaves you ready for the feast ahead without feeling too full.

It’s simplicity at its best, making it a timeless choice for any meal.

3.Lemon Chicken

Lemon chicken is a Chinese dish that’s all about balance–sweet and tangy in one delicious package. The sauce is so flavorful, you’ll want something starchy to soak it all up.

That’s where fried rice comes in, making it the perfect pairing for this tasty dish.

4.Tempura

Ebi tempura is a must-try Japanese dish that’s sure to delight! Crispy battered shrimp are the star of the show, perfectly paired with a sweet and savory tempura sauce.

For an extra satisfying meal, serve it over a bed of fried rice–the combination is pure perfection.

The sweet flavor of the shrimp and the savory tang of the rice create a match made in heaven. It’s a Japanese meal that will leave you craving more!

5.Sweet and Sour Pork

Sweet and sour pork is a flavor explosion that’s both tangy and tantalizing! This Asian favorite features tender pieces of pork in a thick, sticky sauce that’s perfectly balanced between sweet and sour.

Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, the pork is cooked to perfection and tossed with colorful veggies like bell peppers and onions.

The sauce, made with a mix of vinegar, sugar, and ketchup, coats everything beautifully, creating a dish that’s as vibrant as it is delicious.

Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice or mix it with fried rice for an extra treat. It’s a classic that never goes out of style and is perfect for lunch or dinner!

6.Fried Egg

Keep it simple with a classic combo: top your fried rice with a fried egg. A runny yolk adds a creamy, rich touch without overwhelming the dish.

It’s the perfect finishing touch for a loaded fried rice, giving you that extra layer of flavor in just a few minutes. Simple, satisfying, and sure to elevate your meal!

7.Sesame Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts might not be traditionally Asian, but when you toss them with Asian-inspired flavors, they pair perfectly with fried rice. The secret to making Brussels sprouts shine? Sesame oil!

Its nutty, earthy flavor brings out the best in these little veggies. Drizzle them with a bit of honey for a touch of sweetness, then roast them in the oven until crispy. The result?

Deliciously caramelized Brussels sprouts with a tasty Asian twist that’s sure to impress.

8.Chicken Teriyaki

Chicken teriyaki is a must-try Asian classic with its irresistible sweet and smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with savory rice. Plus, that amazing sauce drizzled over fried rice? Pure perfection!

Since chicken teriyaki already brings the protein, keep your fried rice balanced by focusing on veggies like carrots, peas, broccoli, onions, leeks, and garlic.

Go light on the oyster sauce here to let the teriyaki shine. It’s a simple, flavorful combo that’s sure to hit the spot!

9.Egg Rolls

Egg rolls are my absolute must-order at any Chinese restaurant–there’s just something about them that keeps me coming back for more!

These crispy, golden rolls are usually served as appetizers, but let’s be real, they’re just as amazing paired with a plate of fried rice for a full-on meal.

Imagine this: crunchy egg roll wrappers stuffed with ground meat, shredded cabbage, and carrots, all perfectly complemented by a side of tender, savory fried rice.

It’s a match made in heaven that’s sure to hit the spot every time!

10.Hot and Sour Soup

Hot and sour soup is a classic Asian favorite that strikes the perfect balance between spicy and tangy. The vinegar adds a bright, zesty note, while the red pepper brings the heat.

Silky tofu and crunchy carrots team up to create a delightful texture that’s both soothing and satisfying.

This light, refreshing soup is the perfect way to kick off a meal, especially when paired with a plate of fried rice.

11.Chinese Dumplings

Chinese dumplings, called Jiaozi, are a delicious treat that’s sweet, savory, juicy, and totally irresistible. Whether you go for beef, pork, or shrimp, they’re all a perfect match for fried rice.

Another must-try is xiao long bao, which is similar to Jiaozi but comes with a bonus–savory soup inside the wrapper along with the filling. Yum!

12.Gyoza

Looking for another must-try dumpling? Say hello to Gyoza, Japan’s delicious half-moon shaped dumplings! Typically filled with minced pork or veggies, Gyoza can be boiled or deep-fried to perfection.

But no matter how you cook it, one thing’s certain: it’s best enjoyed with a side of fried rice for a truly satisfying meal.

13.Hoisin Roasted Asparagus

Looking for a tasty Asian-inspired twist on asparagus? Try tossing those green spears in hoisin sauce for a deliciously sweet and savory flavor.

Just a heads-up–hoisin sauce is pretty thick and sweet, so a little goes a long way. Simply coat the asparagus lightly, roast it in the oven, and you’re done!

It pairs perfectly with a plate of fried rice for a quick and flavorful meal.