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 day-old); 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Kitchen Magic

I love whipping up a quick meal that satisfies my cravings, and this 10-minute egg fried rice is a go-to favorite. With just a few ingredients, I can create a dish that’s packed with flavor and comforting. The best part is, it’s versatile enough to incorporate whatever veggies I have on hand. Perfect for weeknight dinners or a satisfying snack, it's always a hit—my family can’t resist seconds! Plus, it pairs perfectly with soy sauce and sriracha for an added kick.

Created by

Elodie Brooks

Last updated on 2026-01-26T23:55:35.344Z

When I first tried making fried rice at home, I was amazed at how easy it was. Using leftover rice from the night before cuts down on prep time and gives the dish a great texture. I remember experimenting with different vegetables and finding that peas and carrots were the perfect match for the eggs, providing sweetness and color.

One tip I learned is to keep the heat high while stir-frying to achieve that delicious, slightly charred flavor. It’s this technique that gave my fried rice the restaurant-quality taste I craved. I often make this dish when the fridge is looking a little empty; it’s perfect for using up those stray veggies!

        Why You’ll Love This Recipe
        Quick preparation with just 10 minutes from start to finish
Perfect for using leftover rice and vegetables
Packed with protein and flavor from the eggs
Customizable to suit any taste with your choice of veggies

      

Cooking Technique: The Key to Perfect Fried Rice

The star of any great fried rice is the technique used to achieve the perfect texture. When stir-frying the rice, it's vital to keep the heat at medium-high. This helps to achieve that coveted slight crispiness without burning. Use a wooden spoon to break up clumps and ensure even cooking. You'll know you've nailed it when the rice grains are glossy and well-separated, not sticky, creating a delightful mouthfeel.

A common mistake is overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steamed rather than fried rice. If you're making a larger batch, consider using a wok, as its shape allows for better heat circulation. Alternatively, you can cook in batches, keeping the finished rice warm in a low oven while you prepare the rest.

Ingredient Insights: Eggs and Rice Balance

Eggs are not just a source of protein in this dish; they provide richness and a beautiful golden color that enhances visual appeal. Be sure to scramble them until they're just set but still soft; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Whisking the eggs with a pinch of salt beforehand can help them cook more evenly.

Using day-old rice is crucial for achieving the best results. Freshly cooked rice often has too much moisture and can become mushy when stir-fried. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool quickly, allowing the steam to escape and dry out slightly. This way, you can still create a great fried rice dish in a pinch.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

In a bowl, beat the eggs and set them aside. Make sure your rice is clump-free, breaking up any larger pieces if necessary.

Cook the Eggs

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove them from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the frozen peas and carrots, stirring for about 2 minutes until they're heated through.

Combine and Season

Add the cooked rice to the pan with the vegetables, followed by the soy sauce. Stir well to combine everything. Finally, add the scrambled eggs, green onions, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Once everything is well mixed and heated through, remove from heat. Serve hot, and enjoy your delicious egg fried rice!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add leftover proteins such as chicken or shrimp for extra flavor. For a spicier kick, add some chili flakes or your favorite hot sauce.

Serving Suggestions

This egg fried rice is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with pickled vegetables or sliced cucumbers on the side. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, a drizzle of sriracha or a scatter of chili flakes adds an exciting layer of flavor. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or shrimp for a complete meal, balancing the lightness of the rice with protein.

To make this dish even more vibrant and nutritious, try adding different vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. Sauté these along with your peas and carrots for a colorful presentation and added crunch. Adjust the cooking time for these veggies based on their size—aim for bright colors and slight tenderness.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (though it’s hard to resist finishing it all!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil to create steam and help the rice heat through evenly, which revitalizes the flavors and prevents it from drying out.

You can also freeze portions of egg fried rice for up to a month. Just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a skillet for optimal texture, just like freshly made.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! You can use any vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini.

→ Is it necessary to use day-old rice?

While day-old rice works best for a firmer texture, you can fresh-cook rice and spread it out on a plate to cool for a few minutes.

→ Can this recipe be made vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the eggs or substitute them with scrambled tofu for a plant-based version.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover egg fried rice can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.