If you’re on the hunt for a go-to weeknight dish that’s both irresistibly tasty and lightning quick, this Easy Fried Rice Recipe is the answer to your prayers. With a perfect medley of fluffy rice, crisp veggies, savory eggs, and a simple sauce that brings every ingredient together, you’ll have the flavor and comfort of your favorite takeout right at home. Together, let’s turn those fridge staples into a colorful, sizzling bowl of absolute joy!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this Easy Fried Rice Recipe couldn’t be simpler, and each one plays a key role in delivering that iconic texture, color, and market-style flavor. It’s really a dance between humble pantry staples and a few fresh touches – the result is so much greater than the sum of its parts!
- Cooked white rice (3 cups, preferably day-old and chilled): Using cold, day-old rice helps you get those delightfully separated, chewy grains instead of mushy clumps.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): This neutral oil is ideal for a hot, even fry and lets all the other flavors shine through.
- Eggs (2, lightly beaten): Fluffy scrambled eggs add a lovely soft texture and an extra hit of protein.
- Diced onion (1/2 cup): Onion brings subtle sweetness and incredible aroma as it softens in the pan.
- Frozen mixed vegetables (1 cup – peas, carrots, corn): These bring seasonal color, crunch, and pack in extra nutrients with zero fuss.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Garlic infuses the oil with unmistakable savory flavor.
- Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): This is where that signature salty, umami flavor comes from and ties everything together.
- Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Just a drizzle adds fragrant toasty depth right at the very end.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Seasons the fried rice to perfection, elevating all the flavors.
- Green onions (2, sliced): Freshness and a pop of green right before serving make everything sing.
How to Make Easy Fried Rice Recipe
Step 1: Scramble the Eggs
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them gently, letting them set before breaking them into soft curds. Once cooked through but still tender, scoop the eggs out and set aside – this keeps them from overcooking later.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to your pan. Toss in the diced onion and give it a quick 2–3 minute sauté until just soft and translucent, stirring so it doesn’t brown. Follow up by adding the minced garlic, letting it sizzle for about 30 seconds so it releases all that savory perfume.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Rice
Crank up the heat a touch if needed, and add the chilled rice to the pan. Use your spatula or spoon to break up any clumps – this is where using cold, day-old rice makes everything so much easier! Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the grains are hot and beginning to lightly toast.
Step 4: Add the Veggies
Toss in the frozen mixed vegetables—no need to thaw first. Stir-fry everything together for another 2 minutes, allowing the veggies to defrost, warm through, and pick up flavor from the rice and aromatics.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet, then drizzle the soy sauce and sesame oil evenly over the mix. Stir well to coat every grain, ensuring everything gets that crave-worthy color and flavor. Taste, then season with a pinch of salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh sliced green onions for that final flourish before diving in!
How to Serve Easy Fried Rice Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle plenty of freshly sliced green onions over the top just before serving. If you want to add even more flair, a scatter of toasted sesame seeds or a touch of chili crisp can make each bite pop with texture and flavor.
Side Dishes
This Easy Fried Rice Recipe is satisfying on its own, but it’s also fantastic alongside dishes like crispy spring rolls, steamed dumplings, or a light soup like miso or egg drop. Pairing it with a tangy cucumber salad or simple sautéed greens keeps your meal fresh and balanced.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your fried rice in individual bowls topped with extra veggies or a sunny side up egg for a fun brunch twist. Or, spoon it into halved bell peppers and bake until the peppers are just tender for a colorful, crowd-pleasing presentation. If you have a mini cast-iron skillet or wok, serve directly from the pan for extra flair at the table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any remaining fried rice into an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days, making it perfect for busy lunches or quick dinners later in the week.
Freezing
This Easy Fried Rice Recipe freezes beautifully! Spread the cooled rice on a baking sheet to let it cool and firm up, then transfer to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
For best results, reheat leftover fried rice in a hot skillet with a splash of oil. This revives the flavors and brings back some of that original crispiness. If using the microwave, add a damp paper towel over the bowl to keep moisture in and prevent the rice from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Brown rice gives a nuttier flavor and heartier texture, making this Easy Fried Rice Recipe even more wholesome. Just ensure your rice is cold and cooked ahead so it stir-fries well.
Why use chilled, day-old rice?
Cold, day-old rice dries out a bit, which helps each grain stay separate and get the perfect chewy texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to clump together and get mushy during stir-frying – so chilling is key for that classic fried rice feel.
What protein can I add for a more filling meal?
This Easy Fried Rice Recipe is super flexible. Toss in diced cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or even leftover roast pork to make it hearty and satisfying. Add your protein right before the final stir-fry for the best results.
How do I keep my fried rice from getting soggy?
Start with cold, cooked rice and avoid adding too much sauce up front. Stir-fry over high heat, quickly tossing to drive off excess moisture, and keep your pan hot for that slightly crispy bite!
Can I swap in different vegetables?
Of course! Feel free to use whatever vegetables you love or have on hand – bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli florets, or spinach all work beautifully in this Easy Fried Rice Recipe.
Final Thoughts
Next time you’re craving comfort food in a hurry, I hope this Easy Fried Rice Recipe finds its way to your stove. With a few pantry staples and just one pan, you can whip up something truly special that’s guaranteed to become a repeat request in your kitchen!
Print
Easy Fried Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This easy fried rice recipe is a quick and flavorful dish that can be whipped up in no time. Made with simple ingredients and bursting with Asian-inspired flavors, it’s perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 3 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old and chilled)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 eggs (lightly beaten)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish:
- 2 green onions (sliced)
Instructions
- Cook Beaten Eggs: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok. Add beaten eggs, scramble until just cooked, then remove and set aside.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add remaining oil to the pan, sauté onion until softened, then add garlic and cook briefly.
- Stir-Fry Rice and Vegetables: Add chilled rice to the pan, stir-fry until heated through. Add mixed vegetables, stir-fry, then return eggs to the pan.
- Season and Garnish: Add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute. Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Notes
- Cold, day-old rice gives the best texture.
- You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier version.
- Feel free to swap in other vegetables based on what you have.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
