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: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 2 large eggs; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Speedy Kitchen Creations

I absolutely love making fried rice because it’s a quick and satisfying meal that's perfect for using up leftovers. This 10-minute egg fried rice recipe is one of my favorites as it combines fluffy eggs with vibrant vegetables and aromatic soy sauce. It’s incredibly versatile, allowing me to throw in whatever veggies I have on hand. With just a few simple ingredients, I can whip up a delicious dish in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or a hassle-free lunch.

Created by

Celeste Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:33:34.330Z

Each time I prepare this dish, I'm reminded of the adaptability of fried rice. My family has always enjoyed it, but adding eggs brings a wonderful creaminess that elevates the texture. Plus, scrambling the eggs directly in the pan gives the dish a gorgeous golden hue. I’ve experimented with different ingredients over the years, but I’ve found that using day-old rice is key to achieving that ideal fried texture. Freshly cooked rice can clump together, leaving you with a less-than-perfect result.

When I'm strapped for time, this egg fried rice never disappoints. One tip that’s been a game-changer for me is to ensure the pan is nice and hot before adding the rice. This helps in getting that perfect smokiness. I love adding a splash of sesame oil at the end for an extra layer of flavor, making each bite so fragrant and delicious. You can easily adapt this recipe with any protein or veggies you have on hand!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick cooking time for busy days
Uses simple ingredients you likely have at home
Endless customization options to suit your taste

The Importance of Day-Old Rice

Using day-old rice for this egg fried rice recipe is key to achieving the perfect texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can become mushy when stir-fried. Day-old rice, on the other hand, has dried out a bit and retains its shape during cooking. If you don't have leftover rice, be sure to spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes before using it.

To further enhance the texture, consider refrigerating the freshly cooked rice for at least a few hours. This cooling process helps firm the grains, making them less likely to stick together when you stir-fry. If you're in a pinch and need to use fresh rice, be sure to let it sit for as long as you can for the best results.

Veggie Varieties and Substitutions

While the mixed vegetables suggested here are recommended for their sweet and colorful profile, feel free to customize the mix based on seasonal availability or personal preference. Broccoli florets, bell peppers, or snap peas can add a lovely crunch and extra nutrition. If you’re dealing with extra veggies left in the fridge, like zucchini or mushrooms, they can also be thrown into the pan for a unique twist.

For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu along with the vegetables. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, ensure that the soy sauce you use is plant-based. Just be mindful of adding more sauce if introducing proteins to balance the flavors.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to save time during the week, this dish makes a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the egg fried rice in bulk and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheating is easy: just put the rice in a non-stick pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or oil to prevent sticking, and continue to cook until heated through, usually about 5-7 minutes.

Additionally, you can freeze portions of cooked fried rice for later use. To do this, let the dish cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags. It will keep well for up to a month in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your delicious egg fried rice!

Main Ingredients

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

Feel free to adjust the ingredients based on what you have available!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your egg fried rice.

Prepare Ingredients

Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and chop the vegetables and green onions.

Scramble the Eggs

In a hot pan, add a bit of oil and scramble the eggs until fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Fry Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil and toss in your mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they soften.

Add Rice and Sauce

Add the cooked rice to the vegetables, pour in the soy sauce, and mix well. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.

Combine Everything

Add the scrambled eggs back into the pan along with sesame oil and green onions. Stir well and season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Enjoy your homemade egg fried rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some garlic or ginger while stir-frying the vegetables. Also, using cold, day-old rice is crucial for achieving that perfect fried texture.

Serving Suggestions

Egg fried rice pairs excellently with a variety of dishes, making it a versatile option for any meal. Serve it alongside some crispy spring rolls or a simple side salad drizzled with sesame dressing to elevate your dining experience. If you're feeling adventurous, consider a drizzle of sriracha or a spritz of lime juice on top for an added zing.

For a heartier meal, serve the egg fried rice with grilled protein like teriyaki salmon or marinated chicken skewers. This adds an extra layer of flavor and texture that complements the savory notes of the soy sauce beautifully.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your fried rice is too sticky, it might be due to using fresh rice or adding too much sauce. To remedy this, try adding a bit more oil during the cooking process to help separate the rice grains. Using a spatula to gently break apart clumps while stir-frying can also help achieve that desired fluffy texture.

On the other hand, if the flavor seems too bland, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasonings. A touch more soy sauce can add depth, while a dash of oyster sauce or hoisin sauce can introduce an exciting sweetness. Just taste as you go to ensure you strike the right balance.

Questions About Recipes

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

It's best to use day-old rice because freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can become mushy when frying.

→ What vegetables can I add to the fried rice?

You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or even leftover cooked meats.

→ Is there a vegetarian version of this dish?

Yes! Just omit the eggs or use tofu instead for protein.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it's best served fresh, you can prepared leftovers and reheat them on the stove for best results.