Hey friend—thanks so much for dropping in today! If your weeknights have been feeling a little chaotic and you just need something fast, tasty, and made from what’s already in your kitchen, this Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice is about to become your go-to lifesaver. It’s simple, budget-friendly, and anything but boring!!
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What Is Egg Fried Rice?
Egg Fried Rice is a comforting, flavorful dish made from stir-fried rice, scrambled eggs, and a few pantry staples. It’s traditionally Chinese-inspired but endlessly adaptable, and this version is all about speed—ready in 10 minutes flat and full of flavor. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover rice and turn it into something crave-worthy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s fast—ready in just 10 minutes!
- Perfect for leftovers—especially cold rice
- Budget-friendly and pantry-based
- Can be made vegetarian, gluten-free, or protein-packed
- Kids love it. Adults devour it. Enough said.
What Does It Taste Like?
It’s savory and satisfying, with bits of fluffy scrambled egg tucked into every bite of warm, toasted rice. The soy sauce adds that deep umami kick, the sesame oil brings a bit of nuttiness, and the green onions keep things fresh. It’s simple, flavorful, and endlessly comforting.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cold cooked rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 eggs
- 1 tbsp neutral oil (like canola or avocado)
- 1 tsp sesame oil (optional but recommended!)
- 2–3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: frozen peas, corn, chopped carrots, leftover veggies
Tools You’ll Need
- Large nonstick skillet or wok
- Spatula or wooden spoon
- Mixing bowl (for beating eggs)
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
- No green onion? Sub with diced white, yellow, or red onion.
- Add-ins idea: Toss in leftover veggies or protein (like shrimp, tofu, or chicken).
- Want it spicy? Add sriracha, chili oil, or red pepper flakes.
- Make it hearty: Crack in an extra egg or stir in edamame for more protein.
How to Make Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
- Beat the eggs in a small bowl and season with a pinch of salt.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and swirl to coat.
- Add the white parts of green onion and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Push to the side and pour in eggs. Scramble gently until just set.
- Add in cold rice and break it up with your spatula. Stir-fry 2–3 minutes.
- Add soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir to coat and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
- Toss in the green parts of the onion (and any extra add-ins).
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot!
What to Serve With Egg Fried Rice
- A quick stir-fried veggie like bok choy or broccoli
- Grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu
- Miso soup or egg drop soup
- A drizzle of chili crisp or garlic soy sauce
Tips for the Best Egg Fried Rice
- Cold rice is key! Fresh rice will get mushy—use day-old if you can.
- Use high heat and don’t overcrowd the pan—it helps the rice crisp.
- Crack eggs directly into the pan if you like chunkier egg pieces.
- Prep everything first—it moves fast once the pan is hot!
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 1 month in single portions.
- Reheat: Microwave or stir-fry in a hot pan with a splash of water or oil.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh rice?
Yes, but let it cool and dry a bit first. Spread on a baking sheet for 10–15 minutes to reduce moisture.
Is this gluten-free?
Yes, just use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Totally. It reheats beautifully and makes a great lunch the next day!
What oil is best?
Neutral oils like canola, avocado, or peanut oil work best. Add sesame oil at the end for flavor.
More Quick + Flavorful Recipes You’ll Love
Looking for more easy dinners with big flavor? These are weeknight heroes:
- Mediterranean Ground Beef Stir Fry – healthy, hearty, and one-skillet
- Chicken Ramen Bowl – cozy, fast, and noodle-packed
- Slow Cooker Garlic Butter Beef Bites and Potatoes – melt-in-your-mouth comfort food
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Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice
This Easy 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice is your go-to meal when time is short and hunger is real. Made with leftover rice, scrambled eggs, green onions, and pantry staples, it’s fast, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Perfect as a quick lunch, dinner side, or a full meal with your favorite add-ins!
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
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2 cups cold, cooked rice (preferably day-old)
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2 large eggs
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1 tbsp neutral oil (canola, avocado, or vegetable)
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1 tsp sesame oil (optional but tasty)
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2–3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
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2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1/4 cup frozen peas or corn, finely chopped carrots, cooked leftover protein (shrimp, tofu, chicken)
Instructions
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In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt. Set aside.
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Heat a large nonstick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the oil and swirl to coat the pan.
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Add the white parts of the green onion and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Push the onions aside and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until just set, about 1–2 minutes.
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Add the cold rice, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until heated through.
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Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir well to coat the rice evenly.
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Add the green parts of the onions and any optional add-ins. Stir for another minute.
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Taste and adjust seasoning with more soy sauce, salt, or pepper if needed. Serve hot!
Notes
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Cold rice works best! Day-old rice has less moisture and fries better.
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Don’t overcook the eggs—they’ll continue cooking with the rice.
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Add-ins like peas, leftover veggies, or protein make it more filling.
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For a spicy twist, stir in sriracha or chili crisp at the end!
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Double the recipe for meal prep or extra portions—it reheats like a dream.
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Main Dish, Side
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Keywords: 5 Minute Meals Easy