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 cold cooked rice; 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon cooking oil; 1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots); 2 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Quick Classics

I love how simple and satisfying this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice is. With just a few ingredients, I can whip up a delicious meal that's both comforting and fulfilling. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a lazy weekend, this dish has become my go-to for using up leftover rice. The flavors come together quickly, and the addition of egg makes it extra hearty. Plus, I can easily customize it to include vegetables or proteins that I have on hand.

Created by

Maisie Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-26T21:45:34.178Z

During one of my busy weekdays, I found myself with leftover rice and a craving for something flavorful. That's when I decided to make this quick egg fried rice. Not only was it a breeze to prepare, but it also brought a sense of comfort to my hectic day. I experimented with different vegetables, and even added some leftover chicken one night, which turned out to be a great addition!

This recipe works wonders because the key is to use cold, day-old rice. Freshly made rice can turn mushy during cooking, while cold rice gets crispy and locks in flavor. I recommend having all your ingredients ready before you start frying; it makes the process smooth and efficient!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick preparation, perfect for busy days
Use of leftover rice to minimize waste
Customizable with various vegetables and proteins

Mastering Your Ingredients

For this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice, using cold cooked rice is crucial. Cold rice, ideally refrigerated overnight, helps prevent clumping and ensures each grain gets a nice bite when stir-fried. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool for about 15-20 minutes. This will help evaporate excess moisture, giving you a better final texture.

Mixed vegetables can vary based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. While peas and carrots are classic choices, feel free to swap in bell peppers, corn, or even leftover roasted veggies. Just remember to chop them into small pieces for even cooking. If using frozen vegetables, add them directly to the skillet without thawing; they’ll cook quickly in the heat of the pan.

Perfecting the Stir-Fry Technique

When it comes to stir-frying, timing is key. Heat your skillet or wok over medium-high heat until it is hot, but not smoking. You’ll know it's ready when a drop of water sizzles on contact. A well-heated pan gives you that desirable ‘wok hei’—a smoky flavor that elevates your fried rice. If your eggs start to brown too quickly, lower the heat to avoid a rubbery texture.

If you find that your rice isn't absorbing the flavors as well as you’d like, don't hesitate to add a bit more soy sauce or a splash of sesame oil towards the end. This not only enhances flavor but also adds a nice sheen to the rice, making it visually appealing. Keep stirring constantly during this final stage to evenly coat the mixture and avoid any sticking.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delicious egg fried rice:

Ingredients

2 cups cold cooked rice
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon cooking oil
1 cup mixed vegetables (like peas and carrots)
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before cooking!

Instructions

Here's how to make your quick egg fried rice in no time:

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all ingredients and ensure your leftover rice is cold.

Scramble the Eggs

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they're tender.

Add Rice and Eggs

Add the cold rice to the skillet along with the soy sauce, scrambled eggs, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring the rice gets heated through and coated with the sauce.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, stir in sliced green onions, and serve hot. Enjoy your meal!

Enjoy your delicious and speedy egg fried rice!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add a dash of sesame oil or chili flakes while cooking. You can also throw in any leftover protein or additional spices to customize it to your taste.

Storing and Reheating

Leftover egg fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water before microwaving to help steam the rice, ensuring it stays moist. Alternatively, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the fried rice in a sealed freezer bag for up to a month. To defrost, leave it in the refrigerator overnight or microwave on low until thawed. The key is to avoid overcooking the rice upon reheating, which can lead to mushiness.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with proteins in this egg fried rice. Adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu can transform the dish into a heartier meal. Just make sure any added proteins are pre-cooked and heated through during the last few minutes of stir-frying, keeping it in harmony with the quick-cooking essence of the dish.

If you’re looking for a flavor boost, consider adding garlic or ginger while stir-frying the vegetables. Both ingredients infuse a fragrant depth that's delightful. For a spicy kick, toss in some chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha at the end. Adjust the seasonings according to your taste for a customized fried rice experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh rice for this recipe?

It's best to use cold, day-old rice to prevent it from getting mushy.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add any vegetables you prefer, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or corn.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a vegan option.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.