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

Highlighted under: Speedy Meals

I love whipping up this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I need a satisfying meal in a hurry. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when I'm craving something comforting. Fresh vegetables mixed with fluffy rice and scrambled eggs create a harmony of flavors that I find irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover rice! I can adjust the veggies based on what I have on hand, keeping it versatile and fun.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:44:40.803Z

When I first tried making egg fried rice, I was surprised by how easy it was. Using leftover rice was a game-changer, as it allowed the dish to come together quickly without sacrificing flavor. I love the way that the yolks from the eggs coat the rice, giving it a beautiful, rich color and taste.

A great tip I discovered is to cook the eggs separately and fold them in at the end. This way, they remain fluffy and distinct, rather than becoming overcooked clumps. Adding soy sauce gives a hint of umami that elevates the dish even more!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Quick to prepare, perfect for busy days
Versatile; customize with your favorite vegetables
Deliciously satisfying and comforting

      

Perfecting Your Rice

Choosing the right rice is vital for achieving that ideal fried rice texture. Day-old rice, which has been refrigerated, is usually best because it dries out slightly, preventing the grains from becoming mushy when stir-fried. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it over a baking sheet to cool and dry out for about 30 minutes before using. This helps to keep the grains separate during cooking, ensuring a better final product.

When you're preparing the cooked rice, make sure to use a fork to fluff it up before adding it to the skillet. This breaks apart any clumps that may have formed and encourages even heating. If you notice that your rice is more like a dense mass, you might want to consider using a little less water next time you cook it or adding an extra minute or two in the dry phase of cooking.

Customizing Your Fried Rice

One of the best parts of making egg fried rice is its adaptability. Feel free to swap out the mixed vegetables for whatever you have on hand or prefer. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach can work beautifully, and each brings its own unique flavor to the dish. Just remember to adjust the cooking time based on the size and density of the vegetables; sturdier veggies like carrots may need a bit more time in the skillet.

For added protein, consider mixing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. If you're using tofu, make sure it's sautéed until golden and slightly crispy for the best texture contrast. When adding proteins, you'll want to mix them in right after the vegetables have softened, allowing all the flavors to meld together nicely without overcooking any of the components.

Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Gather all the ingredients you will need. If using fresh vegetables, chop them into small pieces for even cooking.

Scramble the eggs

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Beat the eggs and pour them into the skillet, scrambling until cooked through. Remove the eggs and set aside.

Cook the vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of oil and stir-fry the mixed vegetables for about 2 minutes until tender.

Combine everything

Add the cold rice to the skillet, pouring in the soy sauce as you stir. Mix well to combine, ensuring the rice is heated through and well-coated.

Finish the dish

Fold the scrambled eggs back into the rice mixture, then add chopped green onion. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try using sesame oil instead of vegetable oil. You can also include proteins like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Egg fried rice can be a fantastic make-ahead meal, thanks to its straightforward reheating process. If you're prepping for the week, store the cooked rice and fried rice mixture in airtight containers in the fridge. It will keep well for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water and cover the dish in the microwave, heating it in 30-second intervals until it's warmed through.

If you want to freeze your egg fried rice, portion it out into zip-top bags, making sure to press out any excess air. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat on a skillet over medium heat, adding a bit of oil if needed to prevent sticking.

Handling Common Issues

One common issue people face with fried rice is the rice turning out too sticky. If this happens, it's likely that too much moisture was introduced during cooking. If you find yourself in this situation, try adding a small amount of soy sauce or broth while reheating to not only improve the flavor but help loosen the rice. Aim for a just-steamed texture that's fluffy rather than heavy or gummy.

Another frequent concern is undercooked vegetables. Since this dish comes together relatively quickly, be sure to chop the vegetables finely, allowing them to cook through in the given time. If you’re using tough vegetables, like carrots, consider blanching them briefly before adding them to the skillet. This ensures they’re tender while still maintaining their bright color and nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh rice instead of leftover rice?

Yes, but if using fresh rice, make sure it's cooled completely before cooking to avoid mushy results.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add any vegetables you like — bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas are great options.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the eggs or replace them with a tofu scramble for a vegan version.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Leftover egg fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.