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Egg Fried Rice is the ultimate comfort food — quick to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch or looking for a satisfying side dish at dinner, this easy 10-minute version hits the spot. With just a few pantry staples and leftover rice, you can recreate the delicious magic of your favorite takeout fried rice at home.

This recipe is built around the fundamentals: cold, day-old jasmine rice for perfect texture, a handful of eggs for richness and protein, a hint of soy and sesame oil for that signature umami, and green onions to brighten up the dish. It’s incredibly versatile and beginner-friendly — no fancy ingredients or complicated steps. All it takes is a hot pan, a bit of stirring, and a few minutes of your time.

Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this egg fried rice is more than a side — it’s a standalone dish that can be easily customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this dish belongs in your weekly rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy – Takes just 10 minutes from start to finish.
Minimal Ingredients – Uses everyday pantry staples.
Budget-Friendly – Perfect for using up leftover rice and eggs.
Customizable – Easily adaptable with your favorite add-ins like veggies or proteins.
Delicious Every Time – With the right technique, you get perfectly seasoned, non-soggy fried rice every time.

Ingredients

Cooked jasmine rice (cold, day-old is best)
Eggs (beaten)
Vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
Green onion (finely chopped)
Soy sauce (regular, not dark)
Sesame oil

Variations

Add Protein

Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, bacon, or tofu for a heartier version.

Add Vegetables

Toss in frozen peas, carrots, bell peppers, or corn for color and texture.

Spice It Up

Add a dash of chili oil, Sriracha, or crushed red pepper for heat.

Make It Vegan

Omit the eggs and add crumbled tofu for a plant-based alternative.

Use Different Rice

While jasmine rice is ideal, you can also use basmati or leftover brown rice.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1

Heat vegetable oil in a large pan or wok over high heat. If using a wok, allow the oil to smoke briefly.

Step 2

Pour in the beaten eggs and quickly stir-fry until they are just set but still slightly moist.

Step 3

Add in the cold, day-old rice. Break apart any clumps using your spatula or spoon.

Step 4

Push the rice and egg mixture to one side of the pan. In the empty space, add a little more oil and sauté the green onions briefly.

Step 5

Mix the green onions into the rice and eggs thoroughly.

Step 6

Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil around the edges of the pan, then toss the entire mixture until the rice grains are evenly coated and brown.

Step 7

Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Use Day-Old Rice: Fresh rice is too moist; day-old rice gives that ideal fried texture.
High Heat is Key: Cook on high heat for authentic “wok hei” flavor.
Don’t Overcook the Eggs: They’ll finish cooking with the rice.
Add Sauce at the Edges: This helps distribute flavor evenly.
Toss, Don’t Stir: Gently toss to prevent rice from breaking and becoming mushy.

How to Serve

Egg Fried Rice is best served hot as a main dish or as a side with Asian-style mains like stir-fries, grilled meats, or sweet and sour dishes. Top with extra green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, or a drizzle of chili oil for extra flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let rice cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

You can freeze fried rice in portion-sized containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil to restore moisture. Microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring between rounds.

FAQs

1. Can I use freshly cooked rice?

It’s not recommended. Fresh rice is too wet and can result in a mushy texture. Use day-old, cold rice for best results.

2. What type of soy sauce should I use?

Use regular (light) soy sauce, not dark soy sauce, for a balanced flavor and color.

3. Can I make this dish without sesame oil?

Yes, but sesame oil adds a signature nutty aroma. You can skip it or replace it with a drop of toasted sesame seeds.

4. Is a wok necessary?

No, a large non-stick pan works just as well, though a wok gives a better char and heat distribution.

5. How do I prevent the rice from clumping?

Break apart clumps with your hands before cooking or with a spatula in the pan while stir-frying.

6. Can I add garlic or ginger?

Absolutely! Minced garlic or grated ginger adds extra flavor depth.

7. What if I don’t have green onions?

You can substitute with chives, leeks, or skip them altogether.

8. Is this dish gluten-free?

Not by default, since soy sauce contains wheat. Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.

9. Can I make it spicy?

Yes, add chili flakes, Sriracha, or a splash of hot sauce to taste.

10. How can I make it more filling?

Add proteins like cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or extra vegetables.

Conclusion

Easy 10-minute Egg Fried Rice is a go-to recipe you’ll turn to again and again. With simple ingredients, minimal prep, and endless room for customization, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals. Whether you enjoy it on its own or as a flavorful side, this dish delivers restaurant-style flavor without the hassle. So grab your leftover rice and a few eggs — your delicious homemade fried rice is just minutes away!