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 day-old cooked rice; 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Meals

I'm always on the lookout for quick meals, and this 10-minute egg fried rice has become a go-to favorite in my kitchen. It’s quick, delicious, and packed with flavor. The best part is that you can whip it up using leftover rice, and it's a great way to use up any veggies you have lying around. In just a few minutes, you can have a satisfying meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Plus, the simplicity of this dish makes it ideal for busy weeknights.

Created by

Rosalie Mitchell

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:19:34.602Z

When I first discovered how quick and easy egg fried rice could be, it changed my perspective on weeknight meals. I didn’t know that with just a few ingredients, I could create something so delicious. The trick is to use day-old rice, as it has the perfect texture for frying. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, making it clump together.

This recipe is also forgiving; I often toss in whatever veggies I have on hand, whether it’s peas, carrots, or bell peppers. The vibrant colors make the dish even more appealing, and I love how customizable it is!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Wholesome and satisfying in just a few minutes
Versatile; customize with your favorite veggies
Perfect balance of flavors with soy sauce and sesame oil

Perfecting Your Fried Rice Technique

Using day-old rice is key for achieving the perfect texture in your egg fried rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, which can lead to clumping. By using rice that has been refrigerated overnight, the grains dry out a bit, allowing for that sought-after fluffy consistency when stir-fried. If you have no leftover rice, you can cook rice fresh and spread it on a baking sheet to cool quickly, breaking up any clumps before proceeding with the recipe.

When frying the eggs, make sure to use a non-stick pan or wok to prevent sticking. Heat the sesame oil over medium heat, and wait until it shimmers before adding the eggs. This helps create perfectly scrambled eggs that are slightly soft, adding a creamy texture to the dish. Stir gently and continuously until the eggs are just set—overcooking can result in a rubbery texture.

Choosing the Right Vegetables

The versatility of this dish allows you to customize it with your favorite vegetables. While this recipe calls for mixed vegetables like peas, carrots, and bell peppers, feel free to substitute with others like corn, broccoli, or snap peas depending on what you have on hand. Just ensure that any hard veggies are chopped small and added earlier in the stir-frying step to allow enough time for them to become tender.

If you're managing dietary restrictions, you can also consider using cauliflower rice for a lower-carb version. Keep in mind that cauliflower rice has a different moisture level, so stir-fry it for a shorter time to prevent it from becoming mushy. The flavor profile of this dish is versatile enough for many substitutions, so don’t hesitate to experiment based on what's available in your kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and make sure your rice is cold and separated. This prevents clumping during cooking.

Fry the Eggs

In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary, and toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they are tender.

Combine Rice and Eggs

Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir in the cooked eggs, soy sauce, and green onions. Mix well and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.

Season and Serve

Season the fried rice with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy your quick meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can include a dash of chili sauce or swap the vegetables based on what's in season. Leftover chicken or shrimp can also be added for protein.

Storage and Freezing Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, egg fried rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool the rice completely before transferring it to an airtight container to prevent moisture buildup. When ready to eat, reheat it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil to revive the flavors and moisture.

For long-term storage, you can freeze portions of egg fried rice for up to a month. Portion it out in freezer-safe bags, squeezing out as much air as possible before sealing. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and fry in a pan, or microwave directly, ensuring it reaches a steaming hot temperature throughout.

Serving Suggestions

This quick and easy egg fried rice makes an excellent base for a variety of dishes. You can serve it as a standalone meal, but it pairs wonderfully with proteins like grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling dinner. Adding these proteins can transform it into a complete one-bowl meal, perfect for lunch or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

For an extra burst of flavor, consider garnishing your fried rice with sesame seeds or fresh cilantro. A drizzle of hot sauce can add a delightful kick. If you're feeling indulgent, trying adding a soft-boiled egg on top just before serving—it adds richness and a beautiful presentation!

Questions About Recipes

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

While you can use fresh rice, it tends to be too sticky. It's best to use rice that has been refrigerated and cooled.

→ What vegetables work best in fried rice?

You can use a variety of vegetables! Peas, carrots, bell peppers, leftover broccoli, or even spinach are great options.

→ Is egg fried rice gluten-free?

It won't be gluten-free unless you use gluten-free soy sauce. Otherwise, traditional soy sauce contains gluten.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a plant-based version.