Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
Highlighted under: Effortless Food Ideas
I love whipping up a quick dish that doesn't compromise on flavor, and this 10-minute egg fried rice is my go-to! With the hustle and bustle of daily life, having a simple recipe on hand makes dinnertime less stressful. The combination of fluffy rice, tender eggs, and a touch of soy sauce creates a savory treat that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or meats. You can create a satisfying meal in just minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
When I first made this egg fried rice, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. I used leftover rice, which not only saves time but also gives the dish a better texture. The key is to have all your ingredients prepped and ready before you start cooking. This way, you can keep the heat high and stir frequently, resulting in perfectly cooked rice that doesn't clump together.
One tip I've learned is to use cold, day-old rice if possible. It absorbs flavors better and is less likely to become mushy. I often add green onions or frozen peas to the mix for added color and nutrition, making this dish not only quick but also versatile and delicious!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation time—ready in just 10 minutes!
- Fluffy eggs that bring a satisfying texture to the rice
- Versatile dish that allows for endless customization
Mastering Egg Fried Rice
To achieve the perfect texture of fried rice, using day-old rice is crucial. The grains will be firm and separated, making it easier to fry without turning mushy. If you're short on time, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and cool it in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This coolness helps the rice maintain its shape during frying and contributes to that coveted fluffy texture.
When scrambling the eggs, aim for gentle, continuous motion in the skillet. Allow them to sit momentarily before stirring to develop soft curds. Overcooking will lead to rubbery eggs, so watch closely. Once they are softly cooked and still slightly runny, remove them promptly. The residual heat will finish cooking them after you combine them with the rice.
Vegetable and Protein Variations
One of the best aspects of egg fried rice is its versatility. If you want to add protein, consider cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, adding them during the stir-fry step when you incorporate the rice. Add them in small pieces to ensure even heating. Adjust your life depending on what you have on hand—this recipe is forgiving and can accommodate nearly any leftover vegetables.
For a vibrant twist, incorporate bell peppers or snap peas, adding them at the same time as your mixed vegetables. This keeps them crisp while adding color and extra nutrition. Just make sure to cut them into small, uniform pieces, as even cooking promotes a pleasant texture and a visually appealing dish.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Egg Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Steps
Prepare the Ingredients
Gather all the ingredients, ensuring the rice is cold. This helps avoid mushiness.
Scramble the Eggs
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl, add them to the skillet, and scramble until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Fry the Rice
In the same skillet, add the cold rice and soy sauce. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until heated through.
Combine and Serve
Add the scrambled eggs and mixed vegetables to the rice. Stir well, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Enjoy Your Meal!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger to the oil before scrambling the eggs. You can also substitute with chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it more filling.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the container and microwave it for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. This reintroduces moisture, preventing the rice from becoming dry or hard.
You can also prepare the mixed vegetables ahead of time. Just chop them the night before and store them in a sealed bag in the fridge. This will significantly cut down your prep time when you're ready to cook. On busy weeknights, a quick stir-fry can be a lifesaver!
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your fried rice seems too dry, it might be due to overcooking the rice or adding too much soy sauce. A quick fix is to add a small splash of water or an extra egg during the frying process, which helps moisten the rice and adds richness.
Conversely, if your dish is too wet, you can cook it longer over medium-high heat to evaporate excess moisture. Stir continuously while doing this to prevent the rice from sticking. The goal is to achieve that perfectly glossy look without the mix being soupy.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use any type of rice for this recipe?
Yes, but using long-grain rice or jasmine rice gives the best texture.
→ What can I substitute if I don't have soy sauce?
You can use tamari for a gluten-free option or coconut aminos for a lighter flavor.
→ Can I add meat to this fried rice?
Absolutely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or ham can be added for more protein.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
I love whipping up a quick dish that doesn't compromise on flavor, and this 10-minute egg fried rice is my go-to! With the hustle and bustle of daily life, having a simple recipe on hand makes dinnertime less stressful. The combination of fluffy rice, tender eggs, and a touch of soy sauce creates a savory treat that can be customized with your favorite vegetables or meats. You can create a satisfying meal in just minutes—perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests!
Created by: Kayla Monroe
Recipe Type: Effortless Food Ideas
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Egg Fried Rice
- 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Gather all the ingredients, ensuring the rice is cold. This helps avoid mushiness.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Beat the eggs in a bowl, add them to the skillet, and scramble until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the cold rice and soy sauce. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes until heated through.
Add the scrambled eggs and mixed vegetables to the rice. Stir well, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, consider adding garlic or ginger to the oil before scrambling the eggs. You can also substitute with chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it more filling.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 48g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 12g