Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice

Name: Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 2 large eggs; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; Green onions for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Rushed Meals

I absolutely love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice whenever I'm in a pinch for time but craving something delicious. In just ten minutes, I can combine leftover rice with eggs and simple vegetables for a satisfying meal. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility; you can easily add whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand. It’s a lifesaver on busy weeknights and a perfect way to use up ingredients before they spoil.

Created by

Perrie Lawson

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:43:34.403Z

During one particularly busy week, I found myself staring at a bag of leftover rice in the fridge. Inspired by classic takeout, I decided to create my own Egg Fried Rice. Using just a few staples that I always keep on hand, I was amazed at how quickly I could put this meal together. The key is to have your ingredients prepped and ready to go, which makes all the difference!

What I love most about this dish is its adaptability; you can easily customize it with whatever vegetables or leftover proteins you have. I've found adding a dash of soy sauce and a sprinkle of sesame oil elevates the flavors wonderfully. It's now become a go-to recipe in my household for quick meals without sacrificing taste!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation time, perfect for a weeknight dinner
Customizable with any leftover vegetables or proteins
Rich flavors with minimal ingredients

The Importance of Using Day-Old Rice

Using day-old rice is a game-changer for this Quick & Easy Egg Fried Rice. The reason is simple: freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and sticky, which can lead to a clumpy texture when stir-frying. Day-old rice, however, has had time to dry out in the refrigerator, resulting in grains that are firmer and less likely to stick together. Aim for rice that has been chilled for at least a couple of hours, or overnight if you can plan ahead.

If you don’t have day-old rice, no worries! You can still use freshly cooked rice by spreading it out on a baking sheet and letting it cool for about 30 minutes. This technique helps moisture escape, making it more suitable for stir-frying. Just ensure to break up any clumps during cooking for an even texture.

Customizing Your Fried Rice

One of the best aspects of fried rice is its adaptability. This recipe serves as a fantastic base, allowing you to throw in any leftover vegetables or proteins you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even zucchini can enhance the flavor and texture of your dish. If you’d like to add proteins like chicken or shrimp, make sure to cook them before adding in the eggs and vegetables, as they often require more time to cook through.

For a vegetarian option, consider using tofu or a plant-based protein. If you're looking to add a bit of spice, a dash of Sriracha or some chopped chili peppers can give your meal a satisfying kick. Just remember to taste and adjust the seasoning accordingly, as additional ingredients may require slight modifications to the soy sauce or salt.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is common!), you can store your egg fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, be mindful of the texture. A microwave works, but for the best results, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat. Adding a splash of water while cooking can help steam the rice and keep it from drying out, ensuring it remains fluffy and moist.

If you want to make a larger batch for meal prep, this dish scales easily. Just remember to maintain the ratio of vegetables and protein to rice for a balanced meal. The storage and reheating tips remain the same, allowing you to enjoy a quick weeknight dinner even on the busiest of days.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 large eggs
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, etc.)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions for garnish (optional)

Ensure all ingredients are ready for a smooth cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your egg fried rice.

Prepare the Vegetables

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they are heated through and slightly tender.

Scramble the Eggs

Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and crack the eggs into the other side. Scramble until cooked, then mix with the vegetables.

Add Rice and Season

Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together, cooking for an additional 3 minutes until heated thoroughly.

Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with green onions if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Enjoy your homemade fried rice straight from the pan!

Pro Tips

For the best results, use day-old rice as it's less sticky and fries up nicely. Don't hesitate to experiment with different sauces or proteins to make it your own!

Flavor Enhancements

To elevate the flavor of your egg fried rice, consider using high-quality soy sauce. The depth of flavor can significantly impact your dish, with options like dark soy sauce adding a rich umami taste while light soy sauce contributes saltiness. Experimenting with different soy sauces can create various taste profiles, enhancing your overall experience.

A sprinkle of sesame seeds just before serving can add a delightful crunch, complementing the smooth texture of the scrambled eggs. You might also consider a dash of rice vinegar for a touch of acidity, balancing the richness of the dish and making each bite more vibrant.

Healthier Variations

If you're looking to make this dish healthier, consider swapping out the white rice for brown rice or quinoa. These options add more fiber and nutrients to your meal, keeping you fuller for longer. Adjust the cooking time for these grains as they may require a bit more time to cook compared to white rice.

For a low-carb alternative, riced cauliflower can be a fantastic substitute. It cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well, making it a great choice for this dish. Just be cautious not to cook it for too long, as it can become mushy. Aim for just a couple of minutes of stir-frying to maintain its texture.

Serving Suggestions

To make this meal more appealing, serve your egg fried rice in a bowl and top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like cilantro or parsley. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances freshness in flavor. You can also drape a thinly sliced omelet on top for an elegant presentation and an additional protein boost.

Pair your egg fried rice with a side of soup, such as miso or hot and sour, for a complete meal. It can also be paired with spring rolls or dumplings, rounding out the dining experience and making it a satisfying feast that feels special without the fuss.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables are a great shortcut and can be added directly to the skillet without thawing.

→ What kind of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old rice, preferably Jasmine or long-grain, works best as it’s drier and helps achieve that ideal texture.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the eggs or substitute with tofu for a protein boost while keeping it plant-based.

→ How can I make it spicier?

You can add a splash of chili sauce or red pepper flakes to spice things up according to your taste.