Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Quick Meal Inspirations
I love making this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice for a quick meal that comes together in no time. It’s my go-to recipe when I'm short on ingredients but still want something hearty and delicious. With just a few simple items, I can whip up a satisfying dish that never fails to impress. Whether it's for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this fried rice always hits the spot and keeps my taste buds happy!
When I first tried my hand at making fried rice, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. With pre-cooked rice in the fridge and some eggs on hand, I discovered soft, scrambled eggs mixed with fluffy rice, creating a dish that was satisfying and burst with flavor. It was a revelation to realize that I didn’t need takeout to enjoy this classic!
One tip I find really separates my fried rice from others is using cold rice. It prevents the grains from clumping together, ensuring that each bite is separate and infused with the perfect blend of soy sauce. I also like adding a sprinkle of green onions for freshness, which elevates the dish immensely!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
- Customizable ingredients make it versatile for any pantry
- Deliciously savory flavor with the perfect egg scramble
Perfecting the Rice
Using day-old rice is a game-changer for this dish. The grains dry out a bit in the fridge, making them less sticky and perfect for frying. If you don't have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice, but make sure to cool it completely before using it to avoid mushy fried rice. Spread it out on a baking sheet for a few minutes to speed up the cooling process—this will help achieve that desirable fluffy texture.
When combining the rice with the other ingredients, use a wooden spatula to gently break up any clumps that may have formed. This ensures that each grain gets coated with the soy sauce for maximum flavor. Moving the rice around in the skillet will also help it achieve a nice golden color as it cooks.
Customizing Your Fried Rice
This egg fried rice is highly adaptable, and you can easily swap in any vegetables you have on hand. For instance, diced bell peppers, chopped broccoli, or even corn can bring different flavors and textures to your dish. If you’re looking to add more protein, consider tossing in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu—just make sure to pre-cook these ingredients and add them along with the vegetables for even heating.
Herbs and spices can significantly elevate the flavor of your fried rice. A dash of sesame oil added right before serving lends an aromatic touch, while a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can introduce some heat. Additionally, a handful of fresh cilantro or parsley can add a pop of color and freshness to the finished dish.
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to start making your fried rice:
Ingredients for Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Have these ingredients ready before you begin cooking, as this dish comes together rapidly!
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your delicious egg fried rice:
Scramble the Eggs
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour them into the skillet. Scramble the eggs until just set.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add the frozen peas and carrots. Sauté for about 2 minutes until heated through.
Combine Rice and Season
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour in the soy sauce, and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Add Egg and Serve
Fold in the scrambled eggs and sliced green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat and serve immediately.
Enjoy your homemade fried rice straight from the skillet!
Pro Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger while sautéing the vegetables. Feel free to incorporate any leftover vegetables you have on hand to make this dish even more nutritious.
Storage and Reheating
If you happen to have leftovers, store your egg fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, use a non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking and keep it moist. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently until warmed through. You might also microwave it, but be cautious as it can become rubbery if overcooked.
For longer storage, you can freeze the fried rice in a freezer-safe container. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. When frozen, adding an extra splash of soy sauce during reheating can revive the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Egg fried rice makes a hearty stand-alone dish; however, it pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins if you’re looking to create a more substantial meal. Consider serving it alongside teriyaki chicken or grilled shrimp. The savory notes of the fried rice complement these flavors, making for a satisfying combination.
For a refreshing touch, I like to offer a side of quick-pickled vegetables or a light salad. The acidity from pickled veggies cuts through the richness of the fried rice and adds an extra layer of flavor. This simple step enhances the meal and provides a delightful contrast.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use plain white rice instead of fried rice?
Yes, you can use plain cooked rice, but day-old rice works best because it's firmer and less sticky.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add bell peppers, corn, or any leftover cooked vegetables you prefer.
→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This fried rice can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the eggs or use scrambled tofu as a substitute.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love making this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice for a quick meal that comes together in no time. It’s my go-to recipe when I'm short on ingredients but still want something hearty and delicious. With just a few simple items, I can whip up a satisfying dish that never fails to impress. Whether it's for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this fried rice always hits the spot and keeps my taste buds happy!
Created by: Lucinda Price
Recipe Type: Quick Meal Inspirations
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup frozen peas and carrots
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl and pour them into the skillet. Scramble the eggs until just set. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the frozen peas and carrots. Sauté for about 2 minutes until heated through.
Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour in the soy sauce, and mix well to combine all the ingredients.
Fold in the scrambled eggs and sliced green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional minute, then remove from heat and serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger while sautéing the vegetables. Feel free to incorporate any leftover vegetables you have on hand to make this dish even more nutritious.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 640mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 40g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 10g