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 cold); 2 large eggs; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Quick Table Classics

I absolutely love making Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I'm in need of a satisfying meal without the fuss! The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and speed, allowing me to whip up a delicious meal even on the busiest of days. With just a handful of ingredients and my trusty skillet, I can transform leftover rice into a flavorful dish that's perfect for lunch or dinner. The method not only saves time but also guarantees a delightful combination of textures and flavors with each bite.

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:31:34.960Z

One evening, I found myself with some leftover rice and a few eggs in the fridge, so I decided to create a quick dinner. The key to this dish is ensuring that the rice is cold; this prevents it from becoming mushy and helps achieve that perfect fried texture.

I also recommend using a wok if you have one, as it allows for even cooking and amazing stir-frying. By adding in fresh vegetables like peas or carrots, you can elevate the dish’s flavor profile and nutritional value while keeping it simple and fast!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick to make, ideal for any weeknight dinner
Versatile; customize with your favorite veggies or proteins
Perfect fusion of savory flavors that satisfy cravings

      

Mastering the Rice

Using cold, leftover rice is crucial for achieving the right texture in your fried rice. When rice sits in the refrigerator, the grains firm up, which prevents them from becoming mushy during frying. This dish is an excellent way to utilize any extra rice you might have from a previous meal, ensuring nothing goes to waste while still delivering that ideal bite.

If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for at least 15-20 minutes in the refrigerator before using it. This extra step helps remove excess moisture, making your egg fried rice light and fluffy.

Egg Timing Is Key

Scrambling the eggs just right is a delicate balance. You want them to be soft and creamy, not overcooked and rubbery. Watch closely as you scramble; it should take no more than 1-2 minutes. Once they start to set, take them off the heat—they will finish cooking in the residual heat of the pan when added back in with the rice.

For added flavor, consider whisking in a pinch of salt and a dash of sesame oil into the eggs before they hit the pan. This gives the eggs an additional layer of savory richness, enhancing the overall dish without any extra steps.

Customization Options

Egg fried rice is incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with your mix-ins. Adding vegetables like peas, bell peppers, or carrots not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds color and crunch. If you prefer a heartier dish, toss in proteins such as chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Just ensure these are pre-cooked, so they meld seamlessly with the other ingredients.

For spice lovers, a few dashes of chili sauce or crushed red pepper flakes can liven up the flavors significantly. You can even experiment with different sauces like teriyaki or oyster sauce to give the dish a unique twist that reflects your taste preferences.

Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 green onions, chopped
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by ensuring your rice is cold. This helps it fry properly without clumping together. Chop your green onions and set everything aside for a quicker cooking process.

Scramble the Eggs

In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them until just set, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Fry the Rice

In the same pan, add the cold rice and stir-fry for about 3 minutes until heated through. Add the soy sauce, green onions, and scrambled eggs back in, mixing everything thoroughly.

Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious egg fried rice!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a dash of sesame oil or mixing in some cooked shrimp or chicken. Keep ready-to-eat vegetables on hand for a quick boost in nutrition and flavor.

Storage Suggestions

After preparing your egg fried rice, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a convenient make-ahead meal for busy weeks. Just reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking and revive its texture.

If you're considering freezing the dish for later, allow it to cool completely before packing it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to a month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a pan, stirring to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your egg fried rice presentation, serve it topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or extra chopped green onions. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the dish's flavor profile with a nutty element.

Pair your fried rice with a side of steamed dumplings or a fresh cucumber salad for a complete meal. The cool crunch of the salad contrasts beautifully with the warm, savory rice, creating a delightful dining experience.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your fried rice is turning out greasy, it may be due to too much oil in the pan or using rice that was still warm. Reducing the oil by half or ensuring your rice is cold should help manage the greasiness effectively.

In case the rice ends up sticking together, it's likely due to inadequate stovetop heat or insufficient separation of the rice grains before cooking. Stir-frying at a medium-high heat while keeping the rice moving in the pan helps achieve that perfect, individual grain texture.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe with uncooked rice?

No, this recipe is best with pre-cooked, cold rice to achieve the right texture.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add peas, carrots, bell peppers, or any favorite veggies. Just make sure to stir-fry them until they're tender!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

You can make it gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce.

→ How can I make this vegetarian?

Simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu for a vegetarian version.