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 of cooked rice (preferably day-old); 2 large eggs; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 green onion, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Speedy Meals

I love making this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice when I want a delicious meal with minimal effort. The beauty of this dish is how versatile it is; you can customize it based on whatever leftovers you have in the fridge. With just a few staple ingredients and a quick stir-fry, I can whip up a satisfying dish that the whole family enjoys, especially on those busy weeknights. Plus, it's easy to adapt for different tastes, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Created by

Natalie Briggs

Last updated on 2026-01-27T00:49:35.204Z

One evening, I found myself short on time but craving something hearty. I remembered I had leftover rice and eggs, so I decided to throw together this dish. The sizzling sound of the rice cooking in the pan combined with the aroma of eggs and soy sauce created a refreshing meal that was both quick and fulfilling. I love how you can add vegetables or meat based on your preferences, making each version a little unique.

Over the years, I've perfected this recipe by using day-old rice, which is drier and fries better, giving the dish that perfect texture. A splash of sesame oil at the end adds a lovely depth of flavor that really elevates the dish. It may be simple, but it never disappoints.

        You'll Love This Because
        Super quick to make in just 10 minutes
Customizable with your favorite veggies and proteins
Perfect for using up leftover rice

      

Elevating Your Fried Rice

Fried rice is incredibly versatile, and while this recipe focuses on the essentials, you can easily elevate the dish by incorporating different vegetables or proteins. For a protein boost, consider adding diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu. If you're working with fresh veggies, carrots, peas, bell peppers, or corn can bring a pop of color and additional nutrients. Just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly depending on the ingredients to keep everything perfectly cooked and flavorful.

When it comes to the rice, using day-old rice is highly recommended as it becomes firmer and less sticky, making it easier to separate during the stir-fry. If you don't have day-old rice, you can spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool and dry out for about 30 minutes. This prevents the rice from clumping together and allows it to fry up beautifully, achieving that coveted slightly crispy texture.

Flavor Enhancements

Soy sauce is the main seasoning in this fried rice, but you can enhance the flavor profile with a few extra ingredients. A dash of sesame oil added at the end of cooking provides a rich, nutty flavor that complements the dish perfectly. You might also consider adding a splash of rice vinegar for a bit of acidity, helping to balance out the richness of the eggs and oil. Just be cautious with these additions; a little goes a long way.

For a spicy kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha before serving. This added heat can make the dish exciting and appealing, especially for those who enjoy some zest in their meals. Don't forget to garnish with toasted sesame seeds or additional green onions to create a visually appealing and aromatic final touch.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups of cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 large eggs
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 green onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and chop the green onion. If using any additional vegetables or proteins, prepare them as well.

Heat the Oil

In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Scramble the Eggs

Crack the eggs into the pan and scramble them quickly until just set, then push them to one side.

Fry the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir in the soy sauce and mix everything together, ensuring the rice is heated through.

Finish the Dish

Stir in the chopped green onion, season with salt and pepper to taste, and remove from heat. Serve warm.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add any leftover cooked vegetables or proteins to the fried rice for extra flavor and nutrition. You can also substitute the soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply add a splash of water or some additional soy sauce in a pan over medium heat to prevent the rice from drying out. Stir-fry until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Be mindful not to overcook as the rice can become mushy.

For longer storage, this fried rice can be frozen in portions. Lay it flat in freezer-friendly bags to save space, and it can last for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, so you maintain the best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This egg fried rice can be served as a standalone dish or paired as a side with your favorite Asian-inspired dishes, like teriyaki chicken or sweet and sour pork. The balance of flavors from the fried rice complements the richer sauces very well, making each bite satisfying.

For a complete meal, consider adding a side salad with a sesame dressing or some lightly steamed vegetables. This not only enhances the meal's presentation but also boosts its nutritional content. Don't forget to have extra soy sauce or your favorite dipping sauce on the side to customize each serving!

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, but using day-old rice gives better texture, preventing the dish from becoming mushy.

→ What vegetables can be added?

Peas, carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli all work well in this recipe.

→ Is this recipe vegan-friendly?

You can make it vegan by omitting the eggs and using tofu instead.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat in a pan or microwave.