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 (peas, carrots, bell peppers); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 green onions, sliced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Dishes

I have always loved the versatility of fried rice, especially when I can whip it up in just 10 minutes! This Quick & Easy Egg Fried Rice is a fantastic go-to meal for busy weeknights. I adore how I can use whatever leftover vegetables I have in my fridge, making it a sustainable choice. Plus, the simplicity of this recipe means I can have a delicious and satisfying dish ready in a flash, perfect for when hunger strikes after a long day.

Created by

Adele Summers

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:57:34.933Z

When I first decided to make fried rice, I never realized how easy it could be! The key element is using day-old rice, which prevents the dish from becoming mushy. Once I figured this out, it transformed my cooking experience, opening the door to countless variations filled with flavor.

One of my all-time favorite combinations is the classic egg fried rice. Not only is it quick to prepare, but I also love adding in whatever veggies I have on hand. Whether it's peas, carrots, or bell peppers, they all add a burst of color and nutrients that make this dish even more appealing!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Super fast to prepare, ready in just 10 minutes!
Uses leftover rice, making it a budget-friendly option.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables for added crunch.

      

Why Cook with Leftover Rice?

Using day-old rice is key in this egg fried rice recipe. Freshly cooked rice can turn gummy and clump together when stir-frying, which is not ideal. Allowing the rice to sit in the fridge overnight lets the grains firm up, making them easier to separate and fry. Ideally, your rice should be cold and slightly dry, which enhances the overall texture of the finished dish. If you don’t have leftover rice, opt for cooking the rice ahead of time and letting it chill in the fridge for at least an hour.

Day-old rice is also a time-saver. It reduces cooking time since you can skip the initial steaming step and go right into stir-frying. I also love that it helps minimize food waste! If you find yourself with excess rice from another meal, you've got a perfect base for fried rice that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum flavor.

Vegetable Variations

This recipe's versatility shines through with the mixed vegetables. While peas, carrots, and bell peppers are classic options, feel free to experiment. Broccoli florets, corn, snap peas, or even finely chopped spinach can add vibrant color and nutrition. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for tougher vegetables; for instance, broccoli may need an extra minute or two of stirring to achieve that perfect crisp-tender texture.

You can also use frozen vegetables in a pinch, as they can go straight into the pan without thawing. Just increase the stir-frying time slightly—about 1-2 minutes—until they are heated through and tender. Remember to keep an eye on your vegetables; they should still have a slight crunch to retain their vibrant flavors and nutrients.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a quick fried rice dish that packs a punch!

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 large eggs
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have everything ready, let's get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for the perfect egg fried rice!

Prepare the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until they are crisp-tender.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour in the soy sauce and stir everything together, heating through. Fold in the scrambled eggs and green onions, mixing well.

Season and Serve

Taste the fried rice and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Enjoy your homemade egg fried rice!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding sesame oil or a sprinkle of garlic powder while cooking. You can also substitute the eggs with tofu for a vegetarian option.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Egg fried rice is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. The cooked rice can be stored in an airtight container for up to four days in the fridge, making it a great option for lunch or dinner throughout the week. If you want to make a larger batch, this dish keeps well in the freezer. Portion out the fried rice and freeze, allowing it to cool completely before packing it into freezer-safe bags.

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce and a bit of vegetable oil to retain moisture while avoiding stickiness. Stir frequently to ensure even heating, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You can also microwave it, but for the best texture, I recommend using a skillet if time permits.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with fried rice is achieving the right level of flavor. If your dish tastes bland, it might be due to not using enough soy sauce or seasoning. Start with the base recipe and taste your fried rice before serving; you can always add a little more soy sauce or even a dash of sesame oil for extra depth. Remember that the heat level matters too—operating on medium-high helps with building that delightful 'wok hei' flavor.

Another tip is ensuring you don't overcrowd the skillet. If you're doubling the recipe, consider cooking in batches; this allows the rice to fry evenly and prevents it from steaming in the pan, keeping that desired texture. If the rice starts sticking, a little extra oil or using a nonstick skillet can fix the problem. Pay close attention, and you'll have perfectly fried rice every time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen vegetables work great! Just add them directly to the skillet and give them a few extra minutes to thaw and cook.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Feel free to add red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha to spice things up!

→ Can I make fried rice with brown rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and is a healthier option; just make sure it's cooked properly before frying.

→ What should I do if my rice is too sticky?

To avoid sticky rice, ensure you're using day-old rice. If not available, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool for about 30 minutes.