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, day-old cooked rice; 2 large eggs; 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 green onion, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Weeknight Eats

I love making Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I need a quick meal that’s also comforting and satisfying. With just a few ingredients that I usually have on hand, this dish comes together in no time. The secret to getting that perfect fried rice texture is to use day-old rice, which helps prevent clumping while allowing the eggs to blend in beautifully. It’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a go-to favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

Delilah Spencer

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:09:34.925Z

When I first tried making egg fried rice, I was skeptical that it could be both quick and delicious. However, using leftover rice really revolutionized the dish for me. The key here is to ensure that the rice is cold and dry, which makes it easier to fry!

This method not only saves time but enhances the flavors as the soy sauce seeps into each grain. I often add frozen veggies as a shortcut to make it even quicker, and the result is a colorful, tasty plate of goodness that always leaves me wanting more!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Quick to prepare, ready in just 10 minutes
Extremely customizable with your favorite vegetables
Great way to use up leftover rice

Mastering the Rice Texture

Using day-old rice is crucial for achieving the ideal texture in your egg fried rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and sticky; by using rice that has been refrigerated overnight, you get firmer grains that separate easily. This prevents the rice from clumping together during the frying process, allowing each grain to be infused with flavor from the soy sauce and vegetables. If you forget to prepare rice a day in advance, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and refrigerate it for about 30 minutes to cool and dry out slightly.

Another tip for texture is to break the rice apart gently while stir-frying. Instead of using a spoon or spatula, I prefer to use a fork or my fingers to break apart clumps without crushing the rice. Stir-frying over medium-high heat ensures that the rice heats up quickly while maintaining its integrity. The goal is to achieve a slightly crispy outer layer, which adds a delightful contrast to the tender vegetables and fluffy eggs.

Boosting Flavor with Additions

While this recipe is already a quick meal, feel free to enhance the flavor profile by adding various sauces or fresh herbs. For a spicy kick, consider mixing in a teaspoon of sriracha or chili sauce during the stir-fry. Alternatively, a splash of sesame oil at the end of cooking can elevate the dish with a rich, nutty flavor. Additionally, fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can be sprinkled on top just before serving to add brightness and freshness.

You can also customize the vegetable mix according to seasonality or preference—bell peppers, peas, and carrots work particularly well, bringing sweetness and color. If you have leftover cooked chicken or shrimp in your fridge, feel free to toss them in with the rice for added protein. Just ensure to adjust cooking times for any proteins you add to ensure everything is heated through properly.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover egg fried rice, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat, as this will help revive the dish's original texture. Adding a splash of water helps steam the rice, preventing it from drying out. Stir frequently to ensure even heating without burning, and you’ll be able to enjoy a nearly fresh taste.

For longer storage, you can freeze egg fried rice. Place it in a freezer-safe container, leaving some space for expansion, and consume within a month for optimal flavor. When ready to eat, microwave it straight from the freezer, adding a bit of water to help with the reheating process, or let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight for an easy meal option the next day.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Egg Fried Rice

2 cups cold, day-old cooked rice
2 large eggs
1 cup mixed frozen vegetables
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 green onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Steps to Prepare

Scramble the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the eggs and scramble until just set, then remove from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil if needed. Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until heated through.

Fry the Rice

Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, adding the soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Combine and Serve

Return the scrambled eggs to the pan and fold everything together. Sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.

Pro Tips

For the best texture, always use rice that has been refrigerated for a few hours or overnight. This helps to ensure each grain stays separate and doesn't turn mushy when fried.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have soy sauce on hand, tamari or coconut aminos are excellent alternatives, especially for gluten-free diets. You can also experiment with different types of soy sauce, such as dark soy for a more robust flavor or light soy for a milder profile. For those looking to cut back on sodium, low-sodium soy sauces are available and will still deliver great taste without the extra salt.

Need a vegetarian twist? You can replace the eggs with scrambled tofu, incorporating turmeric for color and flavor, or vegan egg substitutes like Just Egg. Mixed vegetables can also be swapped out for anything you have on hand—think broccoli, zucchini, or even chopped leafy greens like spinach for added nutrients.

Serving Suggestions

Egg fried rice is a versatile dish that can be served on its own or alongside other items. Consider pairing it with a simple protein, such as grilled chicken, tofu, or even spring rolls for a complete meal. A side of hot and sour soup or a fresh cucumber salad can also provide a refreshing contrast to the rice's savory flavors.

For a touch of elegance, serve your egg fried rice in a bowl topped with extra green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. This not only enhances the dish's visual appeal but also offers a satisfying crunch. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a dinner side, this dish is sure to impress!

Questions About Recipes

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

It's best to use day-old rice, as freshly cooked rice tends to be moist and can clump together.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add any vegetables you like, such as bell peppers, peas, or carrots. Fresh or frozen both work well!

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just omit the eggs and replace the soy sauce with a vegetarian alternative if needed.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

To spice it up, consider adding some chili sauce or diced green chilies while stir-frying the veggies.