Quick 10 Minute Egg Fried Rice

Name: Quick 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; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1/2 cup peas and carrots (frozen or fresh); 1 green onion, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

I love making this Quick 10 Minute Egg Fried Rice during busy weekdays when time is of the essence. It's so satisfying to whip up a delicious meal in under 10 minutes! The best part is the versatility of this recipe; you can easily adapt it by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins. With a few simple ingredients, I can create a flavorful dish that feels hearty and comforting. It’s my go-to when I want something quick yet nourishing!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-02-03T15:46:27.037Z

I fondly remember the first time I made egg fried rice; it was a culinary revelation! The simplicity and the ability to customize made it an immediate favorite in my kitchen. I discovered that using day-old rice works wonders as it sears beautifully without turning mushy. With each attempt, I learned how to perfectly balance the flavors and textures.

To elevate the dish, I like to sprinkle some green onions and sesame oil just before serving. It adds an aromatic touch that keeps me coming back for more. This quick recipe has become a staple, especially when I need something quick and delightful!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy preparation in just 10 minutes
Perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables
Flavorful with just a few ingredients
Customizable with your favorite toppings

      

The Importance of Day-Old Rice

Using day-old rice is a game-changer for this egg fried rice recipe. It has dried out slightly in the refrigerator, making it firmer and less sticky than freshly cooked rice. This texture allows the grains to separate easily during stir-frying, ultimately leading to a more enjoyable dish. If you don't have leftover rice, you can cook a fresh batch; just be sure to spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool completely before using it. This helps achieve the right texture.

The temperature of the rice also plays a crucial role. Cold rice directly from the fridge or even slightly warmed rice works best because it helps the individual grains maintain their structure while absorbing flavors from the soy sauce and other seasonings. If the rice is too hot, it can turn mushy, resulting in a less appealing texture.

Customizing Your Egg Fried Rice

One of the beautiful aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily throw in any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or onions. Just ensure that they have similar cooking times to peas and carrots, or add them in stages based on their required cooking time. This way, you can achieve a harmonious blend of flavors while ensuring that everything is cooked perfectly.

If you're looking for extra protein, consider incorporating cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Simply add it alongside the vegetables, ensuring that everything is heated through. For extra flavor, you can also sprinkle in some garlic or ginger while stir-frying the vegetables. These additions can elevate your dish while retaining that quick-cooking advantage.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, this egg fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, it's best to use a pan or wok rather than a microwave, as this method helps restore its original texture. Heat a little oil in the pan over medium heat, add the cold fried rice, and stir-fry it until it is heated evenly, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.

For longer storage, you can freeze the egg fried rice in individual portions. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. When you're ready to eat, you can reheat it from frozen in a pan or microwave, adding a splash of water to restore moisture and prevent drying out.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
2 eggs
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup peas and carrots (frozen or fresh)
1 green onion, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to get creative with your ingredients!

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients and have them ready to go, especially the rice, as you want this to be fast and efficient.

Scramble the Eggs

In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the eggs and scramble them until fully cooked, then remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the peas and carrots, and stir-fry for about 2 minutes until they are warmed through.

Add the Rice

Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Combine and Season

Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, add the soy sauce, and mix everything thoroughly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat, sprinkle with chopped green onions, and serve hot!

Enjoy your delicious and quick meal!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use leftover rice that has been refrigerated overnight. It helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture. You can also add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein!

Potential Troubleshooting

A common issue when making fried rice is ending up with a mushy result. This typically occurs when the rice is too wet. To avoid this, ensure your leftover rice is cold and dry before using it. If using fresh rice, try cooking it with slightly less water than usual and let it cool completely. If you find your dish coming out soggy, using less sauce next time can help balance the flavors without adding too much moisture.

Another potential hurdle is undercooked vegetables. If you enjoy a bit of crunch, it’s fine, but if you like a softer texture, make sure to cook the peas and carrots for longer. To test, taste them after a couple of minutes. Adjust cooking times based on the vegetables you choose to include, as different ingredients require varying lengths of time to cook fully.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving this quick egg fried rice alongside a flavorful dipping sauce, such as sweet chili or soy sauce mixed with sesame oil. This simple addition can elevate your dish and provide a nice contrast of flavors. Adding a side of stir-fried greens, such as bok choy or asparagus, can introduce a fresh and vibrant element to your meal.

If you want to make it more festive, top your fried rice with a sunny-side-up egg for visual appeal and additional richness. The runny yolk creates a luxurious sauce that complements the rice beautifully. Serve it on a shallow bowl for a casual yet elegant presentation that’s sure to impress at family meals or simple gatherings.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh rice for this recipe?

While day-old rice is best for texture, you can use fresh rice. Just make sure it's cooled down to avoid mushiness.

→ What vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, corn, broccoli, or any other vegetables you have on hand!

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! Just omit the eggs or replace them with tofu for a vegetarian version.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Fried rice is best served fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients ahead and quickly cook it when you’re ready.