Easy Fried Rice

Fried rice is one of my favorite weeknight meals! It’s fast, satisfying, and endlessly adaptable. But here’s the thing…there’s a difference between okay fried rice and truly great fried rice, and it all comes down to a few simple steps I’ve learned through trial and error. Cold rice, a hot pan, and building flavor in layers make all the difference!

This recipe takes all of those lessons and turns them into something easy to follow at home. You can stick with the classic “plain” peas, carrots, and egg version, or toss in Baked Chicken Breast, Coconut Shrimp, tofu, or any other protein. Whatever way, the result is restaurant-level fried rice you can make any night of the week!

Ingredients

What’s the big *bonus* about making this fried rice? You probably already have most or all of the ingredients on-hand already! Here’s what you need:

• Cooked and chilled long-grain rice – long-grain rice (like Jasmine or Basmati) doesn’t clump together, creating the best fried rice. Cooking and chilling it ahead of time (or using leftover rice) helps to dry it out and prevent mushiness!
• Frozen peas and carrots – a classic in fried rice, frozen peas and carrots are perfectly cut for ease, providing pops of bright green and orange sweetness.
• Yellow onion – yellow onion adds texture and depth.
• Garlic – everything is better with garlic!
• Large eggs – scrambled eggs are another classic, adding richness, body and fluffiness!
• Neutral oil – I like to use peanut oil, but you can also use avocado, canola or vegetable.
• Soy sauce – soy sauce is the traditional “sauce” in fried rice, adding salty umami flavor and deepening the color of the rice.
• Seasoned rice wine vinegar – seasoned rice wine vinegar is mildly tangy and a little sweet…it’s the secret ingredient to the best fried rice.
• Sesame oil – a little dash adds a subtle nuttiness.
• Scallions – for a pop of green freshness, scallions are your best friend!

How to Make Fried Rice

You can make restaurant-quality fried rice in just a few simple steps! Here’s the outline; for the full recipe, see the recipe card below.

Step 1: Mix together soy, rice wine vinegar, and sesame oil.

Step 2: In a large pan over medium heat, sauté onion and garlic in 1 tablespoon oil for 2-3 minutes.

Step 3: Add frozen peas and carrots, and sauté for 3-4 minutes.

Step 4: Scoop out veggies and set aside.

Step 5: Add ½ tablespoon oil to pan and then eggs. Scramble eggs until just set and scoop out into bowl with veggies.

Step 6: Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 ½ tablespoons oil to pan. Add rice.

Step 7: Smooth into a single layer and cook for 45-60 seconds untouched, and then toss. Repeat for 5-10 minutes.

Step 8: Turn heat off, adding back in egg and veggies. Toss. Add soy mixture, scallions, salt and pepper, and toss again.

Enjoy!

Fried Rice Variations

Make this fried rice recipe your own! Here are some ideas to change things up:

• Use a different rice: use leftover brown rice or a short-grain rice, but keep in mind there may be some clumps if using short-grain!
• Add extra protein: stir in cooked chicken, ham, shrimp, or tofu.
• Use different veggies: try diced bell peppers, slivered Sugar Snap Peas, corn, or small broccoli florets.
• Make it egg-forward: try 3-4 Scrambled Eggs instead of 2, or even top with an Over Easy Egg!
• Finish with crushed peanuts: I love adding peanuts for an extra crunchy finish!
• Add butter at the end: stir in 1 tablespoon butter off heat for rich, glossy fried rice.

Storage

To store: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, covering tightly once cooled completely.

Freeze: Portion into freezer-safe containers once cooled completely in the fridge. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheat: Stir-fry in a medium-heat pan with a splash of oil until hot, or microwave (covered) in 30-second increments, stirring halfway.

What to Serve With Fried Rice

Here are some of my favorite Asian-inspired dishes to serve with fried rice:

• Asian Lettuce Wraps
• A simple salad with Asian Salad Dressing or an Asian Cucumber Salad
• Baby Bok Choy
• Pork Belly with Chinese five spice rub or Grilled Pork Tenderloin with Peanut Sauce
• Glazed Salmon or Pan Seared Salmon
• Orange Chicken or Chicken Adobo

More Rice Recipes You’ll Love!

Dinner

Easiest Chicken and Rice Soup

Dinner

Easy Shrimp Tempura Roll

Snacks & Side Dishes

Easy Spanish Rice Recipe

Dinner

Asian Salmon Rice Bowl

Desserts

Easy, Creamy Rice Pudding Recipe

If you’ve tried this Fried Rice Recipe or any other recipe on my website, please let me know in the comments below. I love hearing from you. Please consider leaving a 🌟 star rating while you are here!