Fried Rice is pure comfort in a bowl: fluffy grains of rice stir-fried to golden perfection, tossed with vibrant veggies, scrambled egg, and just the right balance of savory sauces. It’s a crave-worthy weeknight dinner that’s quicker than delivery, deeply satisfying, and infinitely customizable. Each ingredient brings a little joy to every bite, and this recipe lets the flavors shine while keeping things both easy and delicious—exactly the way homemade takeout should be!

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the things I adore about Fried Rice is how simple the ingredient list is, yet each item adds something important: color, texture, or a bold punch of flavor. Don’t skimp on the basics—choosing good rice and making sure your veggies are crisp and fresh goes a long way!

Cooked and cooled white rice (3 cups): Day-old rice is best for perfect grains that won’t turn mushy; spread fresh rice on a tray and chill if you’re in a rush.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Neutral in flavor and perfect for high-heat stir-frying, making everything in the pan sizzle beautifully.
Eggs, lightly beaten (2): Fluffy scrambled eggs add richness and just the right touch of protein.
Mixed vegetables (1 cup, peas, carrots, corn): Adds color, crunch, and a subtle sweetness—the more vibrant, the better!
Green onions, sliced (3): Freshness and a gentle onion-y bite, plus a pop of green for the final flourish.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Brings a gorgeous aromatic backdrop that makes the whole kitchen smell irresistible.
Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Deep, salty flavor that ties the dish together.
Oyster sauce (1 tablespoon, optional): Adds a layer of sweet and savory complexity; it’s optional but highly recommended!
Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): A little drizzle transforms everything with that signature toasty aroma.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for finishing; taste and adjust for your perfect balance.

How to Make Fried Rice

Step 1: Scramble the Eggs

Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in your largest skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in the lightly beaten eggs and scramble them quickly, stirring until just set—this only takes a minute or two! Slide the cooked eggs onto a plate and set aside. Getting the eggs prepped separately keeps them fluffy and prevents them from being overcooked later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

Add your remaining tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring for a few seconds until fragrant (but not browned). Immediately add your mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 2–3 minutes. The goal is for the carrots to be tender and the peas and corn to be heated through, staying just a bit crisp for that perfect Fried Rice texture.

Step 3: Add the Rice

Crumble in the cooled, cooked white rice, using a spatula to break up any clumps. Stir constantly to mix the rice with the vegetables, letting the grains warm and absorb the flavors. This takes just a few minutes—keep everything moving so nothing sticks or burns.

Step 4: Season and Sauces

Time for the magic! Drizzle in your soy sauce, oyster sauce if you’re using it, and the sesame oil. Stir it all briskly, making sure every grain of rice is beautifully stained and flavors mingle together. Give it a quick taste; add salt and pepper as needed to make the whole dish sing.

Step 5: Finish and Toss

Slide your scrambled eggs back into the pan. Add the sliced green onions, then give everything a big toss to combine. Once the eggs are delicately mixed in and the rice is piping hot, remove from heat. Serve immediately, and get ready for applause.

How to Serve Fried Rice

Garnishes

Fried Rice is amazing straight from the pan, but a few thoughtful garnishes turn home cooking into a feast! Sprinkle with extra sliced green onions for a fresh, crisp finish. For an extra pop, try toasted sesame seeds, a scatter of fresh cilantro, or a drizzle of chili oil for heat lovers.

Side Dishes

Pair this dish with light, crunchy sides to round out your meal. Think crisp cucumber salad, simple steamed bok choy, or spring rolls for dipping. If you’re making it the centerpiece, a bowl of egg drop soup or miso soup takes things to restaurant-quality levels in no time.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, scoop Fried Rice into hollowed-out pineapple halves or bell peppers for a tropical flair. Cute ramekins or small bowls let everyone enjoy their own personal serving—perfect for parties or family dinners. You can even press the rice into molds for a playful, bistro-style presentation!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Fried Rice keeps wonderfully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Cool completely before storing and give it a quick stir before packing it up. The flavors settle in and deepen, making your next meal just as delicious.

Freezing

If you’d like to make a big batch for later, Fried Rice freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe bags or containers, pressing out excess air. Frozen rice will keep for up to 2 months—ideal for busy nights when you need something fast and homemade.

Reheating

For best results, reheat in a nonstick skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra soy sauce to bring back moisture and prevent sticking. You can also use the microwave, covering loosely and adding a sprinkle of water to keep the rice fluffy.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice brings a nutty flavor and an extra dose of fiber. Just make sure it’s cooked, cooled, and a bit dry before stir-frying to keep the grains from clumping together.

Do I have to use day-old rice?

Day-old rice really is the secret to non-mushy Fried Rice, but you can totally cheat by spreading hot, freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet and chilling it for 20 minutes to achieve a similar effect.

What proteins work best if I want to add more?

Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu are all excellent additions. Just stir them in during the last step to warm them through without overcooking—this makes Fried Rice an even more satisfying main dish.

Is oyster sauce necessary?

Not at all! The oyster sauce adds depth but you’ll still have fantastic flavor if you leave it out. For a vegetarian version, try mushroom sauce or a splash of extra soy sauce instead.

How do I keep my Fried Rice from getting soggy?

Use rice that’s as dry and cold as possible, avoid over-saucing, and make sure your pan is nice and hot before adding ingredients. These small steps make a big difference in texture when making Fried Rice.

Final Thoughts

Once you master this Fried Rice recipe, you’ll never be tempted by bland takeout again. It’s fast, flavorful, endlessly customizable, and guaranteed to delight. Give it a try tonight—you might just find it becomes a staple in your kitchen!

Fried Rice Recipe