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; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 green onion, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Rapid Recipes

I love making this Quick & Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice whenever I'm short on time but crave something delicious. With just a handful of ingredients, I can whip up a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor. It’s amazing how quickly the rice comes together, and I often personalize it with any leftover vegetables I have on hand. This recipe truly showcases how easy it can be to create a comforting dish in just a few minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Created by

Jocelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:17:34.343Z

Every time I prepare this egg fried rice, I’m reminded of how comforting it feels to bite into fluffy rice mixed with silky scrambled eggs. With just a bit of soy sauce and a sprinkle of green onions, each mouthful bursts with personal flavor, making it my go-to meal after a hectic day.

The key to achieving that delightful texture lies in using cold, day-old rice if possible; it fries much better than fresh rice. I often keep a batch in my fridge just for this quick recipe, and it truly makes a difference in the final dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick preparation time making it perfect for busy evenings
Customizable with any leftover veggies you have
A delicious way to enjoy rice with protein-rich eggs

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The cornerstone of this Egg Fried Rice recipe is the rice itself. Using cold, previously cooked rice is essential because it helps prevent the grains from clumping together during cooking. Freshly made rice tends to be too sticky and soft, which can lead to a mushy texture. If you don't have leftover rice, consider making it in advance and storing it in the fridge for at least a few hours to allow it to cool down and firm up.

The eggs in this dish not only provide protein but also add richness and flavor. When scrambled just until set, they become fluffy, creating a pleasant contrast with the stir-fried rice. A gentle touch while scrambling is important; the goal is to avoid overcooking them, which can lead to a rubbery texture. Remember, they will continue to cook slightly after being added back to the skillet with the rice.

Cooking Technique Tips

Stir-frying is the key technique in this recipe. Ensure that the skillet is preheated properly to medium heat before adding oil. This helps achieve the correct sizzle when adding the rice, ensuring it fries rather than steams. If the rice isn't sizzling upon contact, increase the heat slightly. Aim for a light golden color on the edges of the rice; this indicates that it has been fried long enough to develop flavor without becoming dry or overly crispy.

When combining the ingredients, be sure to stir gently to keep the rice grains intact. Over-stirring can break them down and lead to a mushy consistency. The soy sauce should be added slowly while mixing, allowing it to coat the rice evenly, enhancing both flavor and color. If you prefer a more pronounced soy flavor, feel free to adjust the quantity, but do so gradually to avoid overpowering the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients before you start cooking:

Main Ingredients

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

Make sure all your ingredients are ready before cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Follow these quick steps to make your fried rice:

Scramble the Eggs

In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Crack the eggs into the skillet and stir gently until they are scrambled and just set, about 2 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Fry the Rice

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 3 minutes until the rice is hot.

Combine Ingredients

Add the scrambled eggs back into the skillet along with the soy sauce, green onions, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and cook for an additional minute.

Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot, garnished with extra green onions if desired.

Enjoy your homemade egg fried rice!

Pro Tips

For even more flavor, consider adding cooked shrimp or chicken to the recipe, and experiment with other vegetables like peas or bell peppers.

Customization Ideas

One of the best parts about Egg Fried Rice is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand. Besides green onions, consider adding diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots for a pop of color and nutrition. To balance flavors, you might also incorporate a dash of sesame oil at the end for a nutty aroma. For a vegetarian option, you can skip the eggs and add tofu or tempeh for protein.

If you're looking to spice things up, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can elevate the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of sweetness, consider a dash of oyster sauce or some sautéed pineapple chunks. Remember, the goal is to create a dish that caters to your personal taste while transforming leftover ingredients into a flavorful meal.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, store the Egg Fried Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or a skillet. If using a skillet, add a splash of water to create steam, helping to prevent the rice from drying out. Heat over low to medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. This helps maintain the texture without losing moisture.

Freezing is another option if you want to prepare a batch in advance. Portion out the Egg Fried Rice in freezer-safe containers. It can last up to a month in the freezer. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of water. The quick cooking method not only saves time in the evenings but also allows you to enjoy homemade comfort food anytime you need it.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use leftover rice?

Absolutely! Cold, leftover rice works best for frying and prevents the dish from becoming mushy.

→ What if I don't have soy sauce?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos as alternatives, or try adding a splash of broth for flavor.

→ Can I add vegetables?

Yes, chopped carrots, peas, or bell peppers can be great additions to enhance the dish’s nutrition and flavor!

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, this recipe can be made gluten-free.