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 eggs; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots mix; 3 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love whipping up quick meals that pack a punch in flavor, and this 10-minute egg fried rice is one of my absolute favorites! With just a handful of ingredients, I can create a satisfying dish that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. It's perfect for those busy nights or when I want something hearty but don’t have a lot of time on my hands. Plus, it’s versatile; I can easily add in leftover veggies or proteins to make it my own. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!

Created by

Cassidy Moore

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:34:36.504Z

When I first made this egg fried rice, I was amazed at how a few pantry staples could come together to create such a delightful meal. It’s incredible how the simple act of frying the rice transforms it, adding a smoky depth that’s just irresistible. I often use day-old rice because it's drier and yields better texture, but if that's not on hand, fresh is fine; I just make sure to cool it down quickly.

I found that the key to perfecting this dish is the addition of soy sauce at the right moment. By pouring it over the rice and letting it simmer for a minute, each grain gets perfectly coated, creating a beautifully colored dish. Don’t forget to toss in some green onions or peas for a bit of freshness!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and satisfying, ready in just 10 minutes
Great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables
Egg adds protein and richness to the dish

      

Mastering the Rice

For the best egg fried rice, using day-old rice is key. Freshly cooked rice can be too moist and clump together during frying, leading to a less satisfying texture. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 20 minutes to dry it out slightly. You want the grains to be fluffy and separated to ensure each bite has the right balance of egg and vegetables.

When stir-frying the rice, keep the heat at medium-high to achieve a slight crispness without burning. Watch for a slight browning, which adds an appealing texture and nutty flavor. If the rice begins to stick to the pan, a splash of additional oil can help loosen it and ensure everything cooks evenly.

Egg Importance

The eggs are not just a source of protein; they are also crucial for adding richness and a smooth texture. Make sure to scramble them just until set; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. If you prefer a creamier finish, you can whisk in a splash of milk or cream with the eggs before cooking, allowing for a softer curd that enriches the dish.

If you want to make this dish vegetarian or simply switch up the flavor, consider replacing the eggs with scrambled tofu, seasoned with a bit of turmeric for color. This alternative can match well with the soy sauce and vegetables while still causing minimal disruption to the cooking process.

Add Your Twist

This egg fried rice is a versatile base; feel free to incorporate any leftover veggies or proteins you may have. Broccoli, bell peppers, or slices of cooked chicken can be great additions. If using raw veggies, just add them to the skillet when you're stir-frying the rice, giving them a couple of minutes to soften before mixing in the eggs and other ingredients.

For a flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of sesame oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes while stir-frying. These additions can elevate the dish's overall flavor profile, making it even more delightful to your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to play around with the seasoning and make it your own!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Egg Fried Rice

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 eggs
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
3 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

In a small bowl, beat the eggs and set aside. Chop the green onions and prepare any other vegetables you plan to use.

Cook the eggs

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove the eggs from the skillet and set aside.

Fry the rice

In the same skillet, add the cooked rice and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until heated through. Add the soy sauce and mix well.

Combine everything

Stir in the cooked eggs, peas, carrots, and green onions. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tips

For an added touch of flavor, consider drizzling some sesame oil over the finished dish. It brings a nutty scent that complements the fried rice beautifully.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for a couple of minutes, stirring halfway through, or toss it in a skillet over medium heat to regain some of its former texture. Adding a little splash of water or soy sauce during reheating can help prevent it from drying out.

This dish also freezes well! Portion leftovers into freezer-safe containers and toss them in the freezer. When you're ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet or microwave directly from frozen, adding a splash of oil to restore moisture.

Serving Suggestions

This egg fried rice is delicious on its own, but it pairs exceptionally well with various sides. Consider serving it alongside a fresh cucumber salad or a light miso soup for a balanced meal. You can also serve it as a side dish to grilled meats or tofu for added protein without heavy sauces.

Garnish your plate with additional chopped green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds before serving for added crunch and visual appeal. If you love a burst of freshness, a squeeze of lime or lemon juice enhances the flavors beautifully and brings a zesty pop to the finished dish.

Troubleshooting

If your fried rice ends up mushy, it likely means that the rice was too fresh or there was excess moisture. To fix this in the future, ensure your rice is cooled down properly before using it and strive for that day-old texture. If you find yourself in a bind with fresh rice, try using a little less water when cooking it initially.

Should you face clumping issues despite using day-old rice, break up any stubborn clumps with a fork while stir-frying. This breaks down the rice into individual grains, ensuring an even distribution of flavors and textures throughout the dish.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, fresh rice can be used, but make sure to let it cool slightly to avoid clumping.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, corn, or broccoli based on your preference.

→ How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a vegan version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.