Quick 10 Minute Egg Fried Rice

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I absolutely love whipping up a batch of quick egg fried rice when I need a speedy yet satisfying meal. With just a handful of ingredients, I can transform leftover rice into a fragrant and delicious dish in just ten minutes. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and adaptability; you can easily toss in any veggies you have on hand. Trust me, once you've tried it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without this quick and easy comfort food in your repertoire.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-03T19:14:27.443Z

When I first experimented with egg fried rice, I was amazed at how versatile it could be. Not only did it transform leftover rice into a warm, comforting meal, but it also helped me eliminate food waste in my kitchen. I often add in whatever vegetables I have here—peas, carrots, or even bell peppers. It's such a great way to sneak in extra nutrients!

My secret tip is to use cold, day-old rice if you can. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky, which can make the fried rice clump together instead of achieving that perfect fluffy texture. Trust me, the extra effort is well worth it for that restaurant-style finish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare in just 10 minutes
  • Customizable with your favorite vegetables
  • Fluffy texture that's always a crowd-pleaser
  • A perfect meal for using up leftover rice

Mastering the Texture

Achieving the perfect texture is crucial in egg fried rice. When using cold, leftover rice, the grains are firmer, preventing them from becoming mushy during frying. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for at least 30 minutes to dry out some moisture. This way, it’ll fry better, absorbing flavors without turning into a sticky mass. Fluffing the rice with a fork before cooking also helps separate the grains and incorporate air for an ideal fluffy texture.

When frying, keep an eye on the heat levels. A medium-high flame is key to achieving that delicious slightly crispy finish on the rice. If the pan isn’t hot enough, the rice will steam rather than fry, leading to an undesirable texture. Look for a slight sizzle when adding the rice; this indicates that the pan is at a good temperature. Stir continuously to avoid burning while allowing some parts to get golden-brown edges, enhancing flavor.

Ingredient Variations

Egg fried rice is incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize based on what you have available. Swap the mixed vegetables for whatever you prefer—think mushrooms, broccoli, or even chopped spinach. If you're looking to boost the flavor further, try adding garlic or ginger during the vegetable frying stage; these will bring an aromatic depth to your dish. For a protein-packed variation, you can mix in leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu, making it more filling while catering to your taste preferences.

For those looking to reduce sodium, consider using low-sodium soy sauce or switching to a gluten-free variant. Tamari works great here! If you're avoiding eggs altogether, silken tofu can provide a creamy texture while keeping it vegan. Just crumble it into the pan towards the end of cooking. These substitutions not only cater to dietary needs but also introduce new flavors and textures to your quick fried rice.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a flavorful egg fried rice:

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Once you've gathered all your ingredients, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your egg fried rice:

Heat the Pan

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.

Scramble the Eggs

Add the beaten eggs to the pan and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until tender.

Fry the Rice

Add the cold rice to the pan. Stir in the soy sauce, mixing well, and fry the rice for another 2-3 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Finally, return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve your delicious egg fried rice hot, and enjoy!

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Pro Tips

  • For added flavor, consider sprinkling some sesame seeds or using a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This egg fried rice is a fantastic option for meal prep. You can cook the rice a day ahead and store it in the fridge to enhance its firmness. If you need a quick lunch during the week, simply fry up a portion while adding your choice of vegetables and proteins for quick assembly. Additionally, the dish can be made in larger batches and saved for easy reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water to rehydrate it if it looks dry after storage.

For best results, store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge. It can be safely kept for up to three days. When reheating, ensure the rice is piping hot all the way through to eliminate any risk of food-borne illness. If you prefer a crispy texture upon reheating, consider using a skillet instead of the microwave. Just add a bit more sesame oil and fry on medium heat until heated through.

Serving Suggestions

Egg fried rice can stand alone as a quick meal, but it also pairs wonderfully with various dishes. Try serving it alongside your favorite stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, or sweet and sour pork for a complete experience. For a creative twist, consider presenting the rice in a lettuce wrap—crisp, fresh lettuce leaves make a delightful contrast to the warm, savory rice.

You can also elevate the dish with additional toppings. A sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil can add depth and flavor, while fresh herbs like cilantro or basil brighten up the profile. For a traditional Chinese touch, serve it with soy sauce or a side of chili paste for those who enjoy a bit of heat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

It’s best to use cold, cooked rice for the best texture. Freshly cooked rice can become mushy.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add any veggies you like! Bell peppers, peas, and carrots work great, but feel free to get creative.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of regular soy sauce.

→ How can I make this vegan?

Simply omit the eggs, or use scrambled tofu for added protein.

Quick 10 Minute Egg Fried Rice

I absolutely love whipping up a batch of quick egg fried rice when I need a speedy yet satisfying meal. With just a handful of ingredients, I can transform leftover rice into a fragrant and delicious dish in just ten minutes. The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and adaptability; you can easily toss in any veggies you have on hand. Trust me, once you've tried it, you'll wonder how you ever lived without this quick and easy comfort food in your repertoire.

Prep Time5 minutes
Cooking Duration5 minutes
Overall Time10 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

Ingredients

  1. 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
  2. 2 eggs, beaten
  3. 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
  4. 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  5. 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  6. 2 green onions, chopped
  7. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a large skillet or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.

Step 02

Add the beaten eggs to the pan and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Step 03

In the same pan, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until tender.

Step 04

Add the cold rice to the pan. Stir in the soy sauce, mixing well, and fry the rice for another 2-3 minutes.

Step 05

Finally, return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Stir in the chopped green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Extra Tips

  1. For added flavor, consider sprinkling some sesame seeds or using a dash of chili oil for a spicy kick.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Total Fat: 14g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 150mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 2g
  • Protein: 10g