Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice

Name: Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 2 large eggs; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Instant Delights

I love whipping up a quick bowl of egg fried rice when I'm short on time but still want something satisfying. This recipe is my go-to for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends. With just a few ingredients and only 10 minutes of cooking time, I can enjoy a delicious meal that’s both nourishing and comforting. Whether I’m using leftover rice or making it fresh, this dish never disappoints. Plus, it’s easily customizable with whatever veggies I have on hand, which is another reason I cherish this recipe!

Created by

Olivia Barrett

Last updated on 2026-01-26T22:45:54.260Z

One of my favorite memories is standing in the kitchen with my siblings, helping my mom prepare dinner. She would often make egg fried rice and let us add our favorite ingredients. That’s where my love for this dish began. Recently, I adjusted the recipe to be even quicker without sacrificing flavor, and I’m excited to share the results!

Using day-old rice makes a significant difference in texture, as it holds up better during cooking. I also prefer to scramble the eggs separately before mixing them back into the rice, ensuring they are fluffy and well-cooked. This small change has elevated my fried rice experience and kept the dish light yet filling!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fast and easy with just 10 minutes needed.
You can customize it with various veggies and proteins.
A perfect way to use up leftover rice.

Perfecting Your Egg Fried Rice Technique

One of the secrets to achieving great egg fried rice is using day-old rice, which has had time to dry out in the fridge. This results in a firmer texture, preventing it from becoming mushy during stir-frying. Freshly cooked rice often contains more moisture and can clump together. If you're in a pinch and only have fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for 15-20 minutes to help it dry out slightly.

When scrambling the eggs, it's vital to cook them quickly over medium heat. This ensures they remain soft and fluffy rather than overcooked and rubbery. Cook just until set, and then remove them immediately from the heat. If you want extra creamy eggs, you can add a splash of milk or a bit of cheese when scrambling, enhancing the richness of the dish.

Customizing Your Fried Rice

The beauty of egg fried rice lies in its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas all work beautifully. For added protein, consider throwing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Just ensure any additional protein is pre-cooked and added along with the rice so it warms through without overcooking.

For a flavor boost, consider adding a tablespoon of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce along with soy sauce during the cooking process. This adds depth and sweetness to the dish. If you're looking to spice things up, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha can elevate the heat, giving your egg fried rice a nice kick.

Storing and Reheating Leftover Fried Rice

If you have leftover egg fried rice, you can store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is straightforward—simply add a tablespoon of water to the rice in a microwave-safe dish and cover it before heating. This helps to create steam, preventing the rice from drying out. Microwave on high for about 1-2 minutes, stopping to stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the fried rice. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stove or in the microwave. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go in no time!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before starting:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 large eggs
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready for quick cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your egg fried rice:

Scramble the Eggs

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil and scramble the eggs until just set. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add sesame oil, and then toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until just tender.

Combine and Cook Rice

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour soy sauce over the rice and mix well. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until heated through.

Add Eggs and Serve

Stir the scrambled eggs back into the rice, and mix in the chopped green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding some minced garlic or ginger while sautéing the vegetables. You can also incorporate proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier dish.

Ingredient Roles in Egg Fried Rice

Each ingredient in this egg fried rice plays a pivotal role. For instance, soy sauce not only adds umami flavor but also gives the dish its characteristic color. Be cautious with the amount you use to avoid overpowering the dish. Alternatively, you can use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness depending on your preference.

Sesame oil contributes a wonderful nutty aroma and flavor to the fried rice. It is best to add it towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its unique taste. If you don't have sesame oil on hand, you could substitute it with a neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil, but consider adding a splash of toasted sesame oil at the end for that sought-after aroma.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your egg fried rice in a vibrant bowl and garnish with additional chopped green onions for a fresh touch. A drizzle of soy sauce or a few drops of sesame oil on the finished dish can also enhance the flavor. For a more complete meal, pair it with a light soup or a salad—something refreshing to balance the richness of the fried rice.

For those who love a bit of crunch, serve the fried rice with crispy fried onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. These toppings not only add texture but also elevate the visual appeal of your meal, making it feel more gourmet and restaurant-worthy, right from your kitchen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great and save even more time. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the sauté time.

→ What type of rice is best for fried rice?

Day-old rice is preferred as it’s less sticky. However, freshly cooked rice can be used if cooled properly.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just skip the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a vegan version.

→ How can I spice it up?

Add a splash of chili sauce or some sliced jalapeños for a spicy kick!