I love how quick, simple, and satisfying this egg fried rice recipe is. It’s perfect for using up leftover rice and delivers a savory, comforting flavor with minimal effort. Whether I’m whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or a quick lunch, it always hits the spot. Plus, it’s incredibly customizable with whatever veggies or proteins I have on hand.
ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Cooked rice (preferably cold and day-old)
- Eggs
- Green onions
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper
directions
- I start by heating a bit of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- I beat the eggs and pour them into the pan, scrambling them until just set. Then I remove them and set them aside.
- In the same pan, I add a bit more oil if needed, and sauté the garlic and white parts of the green onions until fragrant.
- I toss in the cold rice, breaking up any clumps, and stir-fry it for a few minutes until heated through and slightly crispy.
- I add the scrambled eggs back in, followed by soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- I mix everything well and let it fry for another minute or two.
- Finally, I garnish with the green parts of the onions before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2 to 3 servings. Preparation time: 10 minutes Cooking time: 10 minutes Total time: 20 minutes
Variations
Sometimes I like to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for more color and nutrition. If I have leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu, I toss those in too for added protein. For a spicy kick, I drizzle in a bit of sriracha or add chili flakes.
storage/reheating
I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I reheat, I prefer using a skillet to keep the texture from getting soggy. A microwave works too, but I make sure to cover it and stir halfway through heating.
FAQs
How do I keep fried rice from being mushy?
I always use cold, day-old rice to avoid mushiness. Fresh rice tends to be too moist and clumps together.
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, I often use brown rice for a healthier twist. It adds a slightly nuttier flavor and still works well.
What kind of soy sauce should I use?
I typically use regular light soy sauce, but low-sodium soy sauce works if I want to control the saltiness.
Can I freeze egg fried rice?
I can freeze it in a sealed container for up to a month. When reheating, I make sure it’s heated thoroughly and stir it well.
Is it okay to use freshly cooked rice?
It’s possible, but I spread it out and let it cool completely before using. This helps reduce moisture and improves the finAal texture.
Conclusion
Egg fried rice is one of my go-to recipes for a quick, tasty, and budget-friendly meal. It’s endlessly adaptable and always satisfying. With just a few pantry staples and some leftover rice, I can whip up a delicious dish that never fails to please.
Print
Delicious Egg Fried Rice
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 3 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick, satisfying, and customizable egg fried rice recipe that’s perfect for using up leftover rice and delivering savory comfort with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold and day-old)
- 2 eggs
- 2 green onions, chopped (white and green parts separated)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Beat the eggs, pour them into the pan, and scramble until just set. Remove and set aside.
- Add the remaining oil if needed and sauté garlic and the white parts of the green onions until fragrant.
- Add the cold rice, break up clumps, and stir-fry for a few minutes until heated and slightly crispy.
- Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, then add soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Mix well and cook for another minute or two.
- Garnish with the green parts of the onions before serving.
Notes
- Use day-old rice to avoid mushy texture.
- Customize with additional vegetables or proteins like shrimp or tofu.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 125mg