10-Minute Easy Egg Fried Rice Recipe

Sharing is caring!

If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and budget-friendly meal, this Egg Fried Rice recipe is the perfect solution. With just six simple ingredients and only 10 minutes of cooking time, you can create a flavorful dish that rivals your favorite Chinese takeout. Whether you’re in need of a fast weeknight meal, a simple side dish, or a way to use up leftover rice, this easy Egg Fried Rice recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.

Egg Fried Rice is a classic dish that’s beloved for its versatility and simplicity. Originating from Chinese cuisine, it has become a global favorite, with countless variations across different cultures. The key to making the best Egg Fried Rice is using day-old rice, which helps achieve that signature fluffy texture and prevents the dish from turning mushy. Combined with scrambled eggs, soy sauce, green onions, and a hint of sesame oil, this dish packs a punch of flavor while remaining incredibly easy to prepare.

One of the best aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can keep it simple with just rice and eggs, or customize it by adding your favorite protein (chicken, shrimp, tofu) and vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers) to make it a complete meal. Plus, with its quick preparation time, it’s perfect for busy schedules or when you need a satisfying meal in a hurry.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making Egg Fried Rice at home, along with expert tips to ensure perfect results every time. Get ready to enjoy a homemade dish that’s flavorful, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make!

Why You’ll Love This Egg Fried Rice Recipe

• Fast & Easy: Ready in 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Minimal Ingredients: Requires only six pantry-friendly ingredients.
• Better Than Takeout: Simple steps to achieve the perfect restaurant-style fried rice at home.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses basic ingredients that are affordable and easily accessible.
• Customizable: Easily add your favorite vegetables, protein, or spices.

Ingredients for Egg Fried Rice

To make the best Egg Fried Rice, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old and cold)
• 1 green onion, finely chopped
• 2.5 tablespoons regular soy sauce (not dark soy sauce)
• 1/2 tablespoon sesame oil
• 4 large eggs, beaten
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

Optional Add-Ins:

• Protein: Shrimp, chicken, or tofu for extra heartiness.
• Vegetables: Peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added nutrition.
• Spices: A pinch of white pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the Oil

• Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok.
• If using a wok, allow the oil to slightly smoke before adding eggs. If using a regular pan, skip this step.

2. Cook the Eggs

• Pour in beaten eggs and quickly stir-fry to form soft, scrambled pieces.
• Once the eggs are almost cooked but still moist, proceed to the next step.

3. Add the Rice

• Toss in day-old cooked rice and break apart any clumps.
• Stir-fry the rice and eggs together to evenly distribute the eggs.

4. Sauté the Green Onions

• Move everything to the side of the pan.
• Add remaining vegetable oil and sauté green onions in the empty space.
• Once fragrant, mix everything together.

5. Add the Sauces

• Pour soy sauce and sesame oil along the edges of the pan.
• Stir-fry until every grain of rice is coated in sauce and turns a uniform golden-brown color.

6. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot.
• Garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds if desired.

Tips for the Best Egg Fried Rice

• Use Cold, Day-Old Rice: Fresh rice is too moist and sticky, while day-old rice fries up better.
• High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat ensures quick frying and prevents sogginess.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Stir-fry in batches if making a larger quantity.
• Soy Sauce Balance: Use light soy sauce for seasoning; dark soy sauce will make the rice too dark.
• Use a Wok if Possible: A wok distributes heat evenly and allows for better stir-frying.

The Secret to Authentic Egg Fried Rice

Authentic Egg Fried Rice relies on a few key techniques. First, using high heat and quick cooking ensures that the rice doesn’t get mushy. Cold rice is a must, as fresh rice contains too much moisture. Also, seasoning the rice gradually by adding soy sauce along the edges of the pan lets it mix in evenly, creating that signature golden-brown color.

Many Chinese restaurants use a secret ingredient: a touch of butter to add depth and enhance the rich flavor. If you love restaurant-style fried rice, try melting 1 tablespoon of butter before adding the rice.

Variations and Customizations

While this recipe keeps it simple, you can experiment with different variations:

1. Spicy Egg Fried Rice

• Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha sauce.
• Use chili oil instead of vegetable oil.

2. Chicken Egg Fried Rice

• Dice cooked chicken breast and stir-fry with the rice.
• Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for extra flavor.

3. Shrimp Egg Fried Rice

• Add peeled and deveined shrimp.
• Cook the shrimp separately first, then mix with the rice.

4. Vegetable Egg Fried Rice

• Toss in peas, carrots, corn, and bell peppers.
• Stir-fry the vegetables before adding the rice.

Serving Suggestions

Egg Fried Rice is a highly versatile dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses and sides. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it as a standalone meal or serve it alongside other dishes, here are some great options to consider:

Pairing with Protein

Egg Fried Rice makes a perfect base for protein-rich dishes such as:

• Kung Pao Chicken – A spicy, nutty dish that contrasts beautifully with the mild, savory flavors of fried rice.
• Sweet and Sour Chicken – The tangy and slightly sweet sauce complements the umami taste of the rice.
• Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry – A hearty, flavorful option that adds a rich, saucy component to your meal.
• Grilled Shrimp or Tofu – A lighter alternative that still packs plenty of flavor.

Adding More Vegetables

If you’d like to add more vegetables to your meal, consider serving Egg Fried Rice with:

• Stir-fried Bok Choy or Chinese Greens – A healthy, light side that enhances the dish’s overall balance.
• Steamed or Roasted Broccoli – Provides a nutritious crunch and pairs well with soy sauce-based dishes.
• Spring Rolls or Dumplings – A crispy appetizer that adds an extra layer of texture.

Pairing with Soups

Egg Fried Rice also goes well with a warm, comforting soup, such as:

• Hot and Sour Soup – A tangy, spicy soup that balances the mild flavors of the rice.
• Egg Drop Soup – A simple yet delicious option that complements the dish perfectly.
• Miso Soup – A light, umami-rich broth that enhances the meal’s depth of flavor.

Turning It into a Complete Meal

If you want to elevate your Egg Fried Rice into a more filling meal, consider:

• Topping with a Fried Egg – Adds extra protein and a delicious, runny yolk.
• Drizzling with Sriracha or Chili Oil – Gives a spicy kick for those who love heat.
• Mixing in Leftover Chicken or Pork – Makes for a heartier, protein-packed dish.

How to Store & Reheat

Storing:

• Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating:

• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium-high heat, adding a splash of oil.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

Freezing:

• Not recommended as eggs and rice tend to change texture when frozen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Rice Instead of Day-Old Rice?

Yes, but spread it on a baking sheet to cool completely before frying to remove excess moisture.

How Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?

Simply omit the eggs and add tofu or more vegetables as a substitute.

What’s the Best Oil for Fried Rice?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or peanut oil work best.

Final Thoughts

This 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice Recipe is the perfect way to transform leftover rice into a delicious and satisfying meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a side dish, this quick and easy Egg Fried Rice recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. Try it today and let us know how you like it!

Print