This rich, creamy, comforting rice pudding is made with leftover rice and kitchen-staple ingredients.
Combine 2 cups of milk, the rice, sugar, and salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook, stirring often, until it has thickened slightly, about 15 minutes. Stir in the chocolate chips until melted.
In a small bowl, whisk the egg and the remaining 1/2 cup milk. Slowly pour a ladleful of the hot rice mixture into the egg mixture to temper it. Pour the egg mixture back into the pot with the rice and cook, stirring, until it thickens and just comes to a boil. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.
Serve the pudding warm or chilled, with whipped cream and fresh mint, if desired.
The pudding will thicken as it cools. If it becomes too thick in the refrigerator, just thin it out with a little extra milk before serving.