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, beaten; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, tofu)

Highlighted under: Quick Treats

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice during busy weeknights when I need something delicious and satisfying in a flash. It’s incredible how just a few ingredients can come together to create a dish that feels both comforting and versatile. I can easily customize it with whatever veggies I have on hand, and in just 10 minutes, we can savor a hearty meal that's bursting with flavor and nutrition. It’s not only quick to prepare but also a real crowd-pleaser at our dinner table.

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:37:34.383Z

When I first experimented with making fried rice at home, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. I realized that the key is to use day-old rice, which keeps the grains separate and prevents sogginess. Remember to have all your ingredients prepped ahead of time, as things move quickly once you start cooking!

One day, I decided to add a splash of soy sauce and a hint of sesame oil, which elevated the dish to new heights. The combination of eggs, veggies, and the umami from the sauces creates a delicious balance that we can’t resist. The best part? It all comes together in just ten minutes!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and effortless preparation, perfect for busy days.
Deliciously satisfying with a perfect mixture of flavors.
Easily customizable with any vegetables or proteins you have.

      

The Importance of Day-Old Rice

Using day-old rice is key to achieving the perfect texture in your egg fried rice. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and can result in a mushy dish. When rice sits in the fridge overnight, it dries out slightly, firming up the grains and making them ideal for stir-frying. This prevents clumping and allows the grains to absorb flavors better while still maintaining a pleasant chewiness.

If you don’t have leftover rice on hand, you can mimic the texture by spreading freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool. Alternatively, cook the rice with slightly less water than usual, as the reduced moisture can also help maintain the distinct grains needed for this dish.

Customizing with Vegetables and Proteins

The beauty of this egg fried rice recipe lies in its flexibility. Feel free to swap the mixed vegetables for any seasonal produce you have on hand—bell peppers, zucchini, or snap peas can all work beautifully. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly: softer veggies may require less stir-frying than firmer ones like carrots.

If you want to make it a heartier meal, consider adding your choice of protein. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or firm tofu all integrate well. Make sure to season your protein properly and cook it first in the pan to develop flavor before proceeding with the vegetables and rice.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: protein of choice (chicken, shrimp, tofu)

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you're using fresh vegetables, chop them into small pieces to ensure they cook quickly.

Scramble the Eggs

In a large pan or wok, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until just set, then remove from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, and toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they're tender but still crisp.

Add the Rice and Season

Next, add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking apart any clumps. Stir in the soy sauce and add the scrambled eggs back to the pan, mixing everything well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Finish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle with chopped green onions, give everything one last toss, and serve hot. Enjoy your quick and delicious meal!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use leftover rice that has been refrigerated overnight. It will be dryer and less sticky, leading to better fried rice.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your egg fried rice is turning out too soggy, it’s often due to either using fresh rice or not letting it cool sufficiently. In case you don’t have leftovers, spread fresh rice on a tray to cool for 30 minutes. This step can save your dish from a disappointing texture.

Another common issue is the rice sticking to the pan. To combat this, ensure your stir-fry pan or wok is well-seasoned or coated with sufficient oil. Medium-high heat works best; it’s hot enough to keep things moving while avoiding burning. If sticking occurs, add a splash of water to the pan to help release the rice.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Quick & Easy Egg Fried Rice is perfect for meal prep. Feel free to make a double batch and store the leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, a microwave works, but I prefer sautéing it in a skillet for a couple of minutes. This method revives the fried texture and heats it through evenly.

If you want to make a larger quantity for future meals, consider freezing the fried rice. Spread it out on a baking sheet to freeze, and once solid, transfer it to a zip-top bag. This way, you can pull out individual portions, making it a quick meal option during the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! You can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.

→ Is there a vegetarian option?

Yes, simply omit the eggs or use a vegan egg substitute to make it completely plant-based.

→ How can I add more protein?

Feel free to add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. Just make sure it's fully cooked before adding it to the dish.

→ Can I make this in advance?

Fried rice is best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just reheat thoroughly before serving.