Easy Fried Rice Recipe – Fast, Flavorful & Family-Friendly
If you’re craving a delicious and satisfying dish that’s ready in under 30 minutes, look no further than this easy fried rice recipe. A staple in many Asian cuisines, fried rice is known for its adaptability, affordability, and deeply comforting flavors. Whether you have leftover rice sitting in the fridge or you’re just in the mood for something quick and homemade, this recipe delivers every time.
With just a few pantry staples—rice, soy sauce, vegetables, eggs, and aromatics—you can whip up a savory, restaurant-style meal in your own kitchen. What’s more, this dish is endlessly customizable. Add chicken, shrimp, tofu, or keep it vegetarian. Use frozen veggies, fresh herbs, or a drizzle of sesame oil to elevate the flavors.
Perfect as a side dish or a complete meal on its own, this easy fried rice is ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or feeding a hungry family on a budget. Let’s dive into how you can make this classic comfort food with ease and flair.
🍳 Recipe Preparation Equipment
Before you start cooking, gather the following tools:
- Large non-stick skillet or wok
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Grater (optional, for garlic or ginger)
🛒 Ingredients
This basic fried rice recipe uses simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice works best)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated (optional)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce or hoisin sauce (optional for added flavor)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes or sriracha (optional for spice)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, beef, or tofu
- ¼ cup chopped bell pepper or mushrooms
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or mirin for brightness
👨🍳 How to Make Easy Fried Rice?
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Have all your ingredients chopped and ready. This is key because stir-frying is fast-paced. If using leftover rice, break apart any clumps.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and cook, stirring gently until just scrambled. Remove eggs and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Toss in the chopped onions, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and slightly golden.
Step 4: Add Vegetables
Stir in the frozen vegetables (and any additional fresh ones). Cook for about 3–5 minutes, until heated through and tender-crisp.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Increase heat to medium-high and add the cold, cooked rice. Stir well, breaking apart any clumps. Let it sit for a minute to get slightly crispy before stirring again.
Step 6: Season the Dish
Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Toss everything together until evenly coated. Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce if needed.
Step 7: Add Eggs and Green Onions
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and stir to combine. Mix in chopped green onions and cook for 1–2 more minutes until everything is hot and well mixed.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from heat and serve hot. Garnish with more green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.
🔄 Variations
The beauty of fried rice is its versatility. Try these creative twists:
- Chicken Fried Rice – Add cooked, shredded or diced chicken breast.
- Shrimp Fried Rice – Sauté shrimp separately, then stir in at the end.
- Pineapple Fried Rice – Toss in pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast.
- Spicy Fried Rice – Add chili paste, sriracha, or red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Fried Rice – Omit eggs and use tofu or plant-based protein.
- Cauliflower Fried Rice – Swap rice with riced cauliflower for a low-carb version.
🍳 Cooking Note
Cold rice is key to getting that signature slightly crispy texture. Fresh rice tends to be too moist and can result in a mushy final dish. If you’re using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and chill it in the freezer for 20–30 minutes.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
This fried rice is satisfying on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with:
- Teriyaki chicken or beef
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Spring rolls or egg rolls
- Asian-style slaw
- Dumplings or potstickers
- Sweet and sour chicken
- Miso soup or hot and sour soup
Garnish with lime wedges, chopped cilantro, or extra green onions for a vibrant touch.
💡 Helpful Tips
- Use day-old rice – Dry, cold rice separates easily and fries up better.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan – Cook in batches if needed to avoid steaming the ingredients.
- High heat is your friend – Helps achieve that “wok hei” (smoky, stir-fried flavor).
- Use neutral oil – Vegetable, canola, or peanut oil are ideal for high-heat cooking.
- Customize freely – Fried rice is a great way to use up leftovers or fresh produce.
🌟 Tips for the Best Fried Rice
- Dry rice is crucial – Wet rice won’t fry well. Dry it out beforehand.
- Keep stirring, but let it sit occasionally – Stir-frying is fast, but letting the rice sit in the pan helps it crisp.
- Add sauces gradually – You can always add more, but can’t take it out.
- Balance your flavors – Use soy for salt, oyster sauce for depth, vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.
- Eggs first, then last – Cooking eggs first keeps them fluffy and helps avoid overcooking.
⏱️ Prep Time:
10 minutes
⏱️ Cooking Time:
10 minutes
⏱️ Total Time:
20 minutes
🥗 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 1 Cup)
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 6g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
(Note: Nutritional values vary depending on added proteins and sauces.)
❓ FAQs
Q: Can I use freshly cooked rice for fried rice?
A: Yes, but it’s best to chill it first. Spread it on a tray and refrigerate or freeze for 20–30 minutes to remove excess moisture.
Q: What’s the best rice to use for fried rice?
A: Medium to long-grain rice like Jasmine or Basmati works best. Short-grain rice can be too sticky.
Q: How can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free soy sauce (like tamari) and check that all other sauces are gluten-free.
Q: How do I store and reheat fried rice?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave.
Q: Can I freeze fried rice?
A: Yes! Let it cool completely, portion into freezer bags, and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat from frozen or thaw first.
✅ Conclusion
This easy fried rice recipe is your ticket to quick, comforting, and customizable meals any day of the week. Whether you’re clearing out the fridge, meal-prepping for the week, or just craving a cozy bowl of savory goodness, this dish checks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, family-friendly, and flexible.
In just 20 minutes, you’ll have a complete dish that’s better than takeout and adaptable to whatever you have on hand. It’s the kind of go-to recipe that becomes a regular in your kitchen
