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: Serves 2
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 green onion, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Weeknight Wonders

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I'm pressed for time but still want to enjoy a delicious homemade meal. In just ten minutes, I can have a flavorful bowl ready, using simple ingredients that I often have on hand. The beauty of this recipe is in its versatility; you can add any leftover vegetables or proteins to make it your own. Plus, who doesn’t love a satisfying rice dish that’s quick to prepare? This has become a go-to for my busy days!

Created by

Callie Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:35:34.471Z

When I first tried making egg fried rice, I thought it would be a lengthy and complicated dish, but I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was! Using leftover rice makes all the difference; it doesn’t clump together and gives you that perfect texture. With just a few eggs, some veggies, and soy sauce, this dish comes alive. Surprisingly, the key is to cook the eggs separately and mix them in later to maintain their fluffy texture.

Over time, I’ve experimented with different add-ins like peas, carrots, and even shrimp, adjusting the flavors to my liking. The result is not just quick but also a deliciously satisfying meal that captures the essence of a classic takeout dish, ready in no time!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy nights.
Versatile, making use of any leftover vegetables.
Deliciously satisfying with a perfect balance of flavors.

Key Techniques for Perfect Fried Rice

Achieving the perfect egg fried rice hinges on the quality of your rice. Ideally, use day-old rice, as it’s drier and less likely to clump together. Freshly cooked rice contains more moisture, leading to a mushy consistency when stir-fried. If day-old rice isn’t available, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes in the refrigerator before using it. This process reduces the moisture content and prepares it better for frying.

When scrambling the eggs initially, aim for a soft and creamy texture. Overcooking eggs can make them rubbery, which detracts from the overall creaminess of the dish. Cook them just until set, then remove them from the heat and allow residual heat to finish cooking them without direct contact with the heat source. This way, they’ll remain fluffy when combined with the rice later.

Ingredient Role and Substitutions

Soy sauce is a crucial ingredient in fried rice, providing umami flavor and a rich color. If you want to reduce sodium, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or alternatives like liquid aminos. Alternatively, tamari or coconut aminos can be great gluten-free substitutes while still delivering excellent flavor. Just remember to start with a smaller amount, adjusting to taste as it can vary from brand to brand.

The mixed vegetables bring essential nutrients and vibrant color to the dish. While a standard mix works well, you can easily customize this aspect based on what you have available or prefer. For instance, bell peppers, peas, and corn are often popular choices, or you can use diced carrots and broccoli for added crunch. Fresh vegetables can be used convincingly, but be sure to adjust your cooking times to ensure they're tender without being overcooked.

Serving Suggestions and Leftovers

Egg fried rice makes an excellent base for a variety of toppings or pairings. For an added protein kick, consider serving it alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a dash of chili oil can also elevate the flavor profile, adding a hint of crunch and spice. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a drizzle of hoisin or sweet chili sauce for a touch of sweetness.

Leftover fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water to the pan or microwave to create steam, which helps prevent the rice from becoming too dry. If you want to freeze the fried rice, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, thaw and reheat thoroughly on the stove for best results.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting to streamline the cooking process.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup mixed vegetables (frozen or fresh)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 green onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure all ingredients are chopped and ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Quickly prepare your cooking space for a smooth workflow.

Prepare the Eggs

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet, scramble them until fully cooked, then remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.

Add Rice and Soy Sauce

Add the cooked rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce. Stir well, breaking apart any clumps of rice and ensuring everything is well combined.

Combine Everything

Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet, then add chopped green onions. Mix everything thoroughly and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Pro Tips

For even better flavor, use a hot wok and ensure the rice is cooled completely before frying to keep it from sticking.

Making It Your Own

This egg fried rice recipe is impressively customizable. If you have other proteins on hand, such as diced ham or leftover chicken, feel free to mix those in during the reintroduction of the eggs. This not only enhances the flavor but also makes your dish heartier, turning it into a satisfying meal. Moreover, spices like ginger or garlic can add depth; sauté them quickly with the vegetables for an aromatic base.

To turn this fried rice into a vegetarian or vegan option, replace the eggs with scrambled tofu. A tablespoon of nutritional yeast can lend a similar umami flavor profile while providing some added nutrition. Just ensure that you scramble the tofu well and season it properly to avoid any blandness in the final dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your fried rice turns out mushy, it may be due to using freshly cooked rice without allowing it to cool adequately. In the future, try spreading it out and refrigerating it as mentioned earlier; this simple step can significantly improve the texture. Also, when frying, avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming rather than frying, leading to that undesirable texture.

In case your fried rice feels lacking in flavor, ensure you're adequately seasoning with soy sauce and taste testing before serving. A dash of white pepper can also enhance the dish without overpowering it. Remember to incorporate salt gradually rather than adding too much at once; it's easier to adjust the flavor in increments!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use uncooked rice?

It's best to use cooked rice, preferably day-old, to achieve the right texture.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots, depending on what you have on hand.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make it gluten-free by using tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.

→ Can this recipe be made vegan?

Absolutely! Simply replace the eggs with tofu scramble or omit them entirely for a vegetable fried rice.