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; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Kitchen Fix

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I need a delicious meal in a hurry. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and the speed at which it comes together. Using leftover rice makes a world of difference, as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy. Plus, the combination of eggs and veggies creates a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any time of day. It’s a fantastic go-to recipe for busy nights or when I want something comforting without spending too much time in the kitchen.

Created by

Brianna Tate

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:09:34.611Z

Creating the perfect egg fried rice has been a fun journey for me. I experimented with various ingredients and discovered that using cold, leftover rice is essential for achieving the right texture. The eggs add a lovely creaminess that, combined with a splash of soy sauce, elevates the dish immensely. I also love adding chopped green onions for an extra punch of freshness!

This dish can easily be customized based on what I have in my fridge. Whether it's peas, carrots, or even leftover meats, there's always room for creativity. Just 10 minutes is all it takes to transform these simple ingredients into something truly delightful.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Fast and effortless preparation, done in just 10 minutes.
Rich flavors from simple ingredients that pack a punch.
Versatile dish that can be customized to your taste.

Mastering the Rice Texture

Using day-old rice is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in this Egg Fried Rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and sticky, which can lead to a clumpy dish. You want the rice to be cold and slightly dry, allowing the grains to separate easily when frying. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and refrigerate for 30 minutes to cool before using.

When frying the rice, keep the heat at medium to high. This allows for a slight toasting effect, which enhances the flavor. Stir the rice continuously to prevent burning and ensure even heating. You'll know it’s ready when it starts to shimmer and becomes a bit glossy, taking on a beautiful golden hue.

Adding Flavor and Nutrition

The soy sauce is a key ingredient that introduces umami, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your fried rice. For a gluten-free option, you can substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which offer similar savory notes. Be mindful of the salt content if you’re using low-sodium soy sauce, as you may need to adjust your final seasoning accordingly.

The mixed vegetables not only contribute color and texture but also make this dish more nutritious. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies, such as bell peppers or broccoli. If using frozen vegetables, there's no need to thaw them first—just toss them directly into the pan. They'll heat through quickly and blend seamlessly into the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

Egg Fried Rice is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. You can enjoy it solo, or pair it with proteins like grilled chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal. Consider adding a drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top just before serving. For an extra kick, mix in some sriracha or your favorite hot sauce.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to maintain the moisture. While I find that fried rice is best when freshly made, it's still enjoyable the next day with a bit of care while reheating.

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice

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

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and ensure that the rice is cold and clumpy to prevent sticking.

Cook the Eggs

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs, scramble until fully cooked, and then set aside.

Fry the Rice

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, and toss in the cold rice. Stir-fry for a couple of minutes until the rice is heated through.

Add Vegetables and Season

Add in the mixed vegetables and cooked eggs. Pour the soy sauce over the mixture and fry everything together for another couple of minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Finish and Serve

Stir in the chopped green onions, give it a final mix, and serve hot.

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, add a dash of sesame oil before serving. You can also include leftover protein like chicken or shrimp to make it more filling.

Potential Issues and Troubleshooting

One common issue with fried rice is excess moisture, which can lead to a mushy texture. To avoid this, ensure your rice is cold before starting and that your pan is adequately preheated to help evaporate any moisture quickly during frying. If you notice your fried rice is sticky, it's likely due to overheated or freshly cooked rice being used.

Another challenge can arise from undercooked eggs. To ensure they are fully cooked, allow the eggs to sit undisturbed for a few moments before scrambling. They'll cook through quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking and resulting in dry, rubbery eggs.

Dietary Modifications

For a vegetarian or vegan option, simply omit the eggs or substitute them with silken tofu or chickpea flour cooked in water, which can mimic the texture of scrambled eggs quite well. This allows you to maintain protein levels while adhering to dietary restrictions.

If you're aiming for a lower-carb option, consider using cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice. It cooks similarly when stir-fried and absorbs flavors well. Just keep the cooking time shorter to prevent it from becoming too mushy, aiming for about 5-7 minutes.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easily scalable, whether you're cooking for one or a family gathering. Simply maintain the ratio of rice, eggs, and vegetables, scaling each ingredient as required. For larger quantities, a wok is an excellent choice as it provides more surface area for even heat distribution and allows you to manage a larger volume comfortably without overcrowding the pan.

If you're preparing this dish for meal prep, consider making a double batch. It stores well and is easy to reheat. You can even customize portions with different proteins or vegetables, making sure everyone gets a meal option they enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

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

It's best to use day-old rice for the best texture. Fresh rice tends to be too moist and can make the dish sticky.

→ What if I don't have soy sauce?

You can substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free alternative.

→ Can I add meat to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can easily incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu to make it more protein-rich.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan for the best results.