Egg Fried Rice

Need a fast, tasty meal? This egg fried rice is quick, easy, and full of flavor!

You get fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, and just the right amount of soy sauce. Every bite is warm, cozy, and super yummy.

Perfect for lunch, dinner, or using up leftovers. One pan, done in minutes.

Grab your rice and eggs—let’s stir up a bowl of fried rice magic today!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Family-Friendly: Loved by picky eaters and grownups alike—easy to customize for everyone.
• Quick & Easy: Uses minimal ingredients and is ready in under half an hour.
• Budget-Friendly: Perfect for stretching out leftover rice and eggs.
• Versatile: Add vegetables, protein, or sauce to make it your own.
• Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings:

• Serves 4 as a side dish or 2 as a main dish. Scale up as needed.

Difficulty:

• Beginner-friendly, great for kids to help with (under supervision for the stove and hot oil).

Required Kitchen Tools

• Wok or large nonstick skillet
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Small bowl (for beating eggs)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Medium bowl (optional, for holding cooked eggs)

Ingredients for Egg Fried Rice

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this classic dish (exact amounts in the recipe card below):

• Cooked Rice: Best if it’s been chilled for at least 4 hours or overnight. Day-old rice is ideal because it’s dry and won’t clump.
• Vegetable Oil: A neutral oil like canola, sunflower, or peanut works well.
• Eggs: Adds richness and protein. Scrambled into fluffy bits.
• Onion: Finely chopped for sweetness and texture.
• Garlic (optional): Minced, for extra depth.
• Soy Sauce: Adds savory umami flavor. Use low sodium if preferred.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste.
• Green Onions (Spring Onions): Sliced, for freshness and garnish.
• Frozen Peas or Mixed Vegetables (optional): A good way to add color and nutrients.

Variations for Egg Fried Rice

• Add Veggies: Toss in frozen peas, diced carrots, corn, bell peppers, or edamame for extra color and nutrients.
• Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, sriracha, or a drizzle of chili oil.
• Use Brown Rice: For a fiber-rich version, substitute white rice with chilled cooked brown rice.
• Add Protein: Mix in diced chicken, tofu, shrimp, or leftover steak to turn it into a main dish.
• Ginger-Garlic Boost: Sauté minced garlic and ginger in oil for an aromatic twist.
• Use Sesame Oil: Add 1/2 teaspoon at the end for a toasted, nutty flavor.

How to Make Egg Fried Rice – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Ingredients

Chop your onion and green onions. Beat the eggs in a small bowl. If your rice is clumpy, gently break it up with your hands or a fork.

2. Heat the Pan

Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and let it get hot.

3. Scramble the Eggs

Pour the beaten eggs into the pan. Stir constantly until just cooked through. Remove the eggs to a separate plate and set aside.

4. Sauté the Aromatics

Add the remaining oil to the same pan. Add chopped onion (and garlic, if using) and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft and fragrant.

5. Add the Rice

Increase the heat to high. Add the chilled rice. Press it down gently into the pan and let it cook undisturbed for 1–2 minutes. Stir and repeat to get some crispy edges.

6. Season and Combine

Drizzle soy sauce over the rice. Stir well. Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Toss everything together until evenly combined.

7. Finish and Serve

Add chopped green onions and any other toppings. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.

Serving and Decoration

How to Serve Egg Fried Rice

Egg Fried Rice is versatile and goes with just about anything. Here are a few ideas:

• As a Side Dish: Pairs perfectly with stir-fried vegetables, grilled chicken, beef, or tofu.
• As a Main Course: Just add a protein like shrimp or diced chicken and you’re set.
• With Sauces: Serve with a side of chili garlic sauce, soy sauce, or sweet and sour sauce for dipping or drizzling.
• Topped with Garnishes: Try sesame seeds, chopped peanuts, or an extra sprinkle of green onions for crunch and freshness.

Storing Egg Fried Rice

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Can be frozen for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in a pan or microwave.
• Reheating Tips: Add a splash of water or soy sauce and stir-fry in a pan to bring it back to life.

Tips and Tricks for Success

• Use Cold Rice: Fresh rice is too soft and moist. Day-old rice fries best.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Fry in batches if needed to keep rice from steaming.
• High Heat is Key: It helps give the rice that signature fried texture.
• Season Gradually: Add soy sauce in layers and taste often.
• Break Up the Rice: Gently loosen cold rice with hands or fork before cooking.

Nutrition

Nutrient	Amount (per serving)
Calories	~280 kcal
Protein	8g
Carbohydrates	35g
Fat	12g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	520mg

(Nutrition may vary based on ingredients used and optional add-ins)

Egg Fried Rice FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice?
It’s not ideal. Fresh rice is too soft and sticky. If needed, spread it out on a tray and chill it quickly before using.

Can I add meat?
Yes—leftover chicken, shrimp, or tofu work great. Just cook it before adding the rice.

What if I don’t have soy sauce?
You can substitute with tamari or coconut aminos. Just taste and adjust the salt level.

Is it gluten-free?
Only if you use gluten-free soy sauce.

Conclusion

Egg Fried Rice is one of those comforting recipes that’s simple, reliable, and always satisfying. Whether you’re cleaning out the fridge or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s easy to make, easy to customize, and easy to love.