If you’re searching for a delicious weeknight meal that tastes just like your favorite takeout, this Easy Fried Rice Recipe is the answer! It’s fast, customizable, and seriously comforting, with fluffy rice, crisp veggies, and savory sauces all coming together in one sizzling pan. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal prepping, or just have some leftover rice, you’ll love how simple ingredients and a few easy steps transform into pure dinnertime gold.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Easy Fried Rice Recipe keeps things refreshingly simple: every ingredient packs a punch, bringing its unique flavor, texture, or color to the party. Here’s why each one matters, plus a bonus tip to make the most of your rice dish.

Cooked and chilled white rice (3 cups): Day-old rice is key for perfect texture; it fries up fluffy and never clumpy.
Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): Neutral oil gives everything a gorgeous crisp and lets flavors shine.
Large eggs, lightly beaten (2): Scrambled eggs add extra protein and a creamy, satisfying bite.
Frozen mixed vegetables, peas, carrots, corn (1 cup): Colorful, sweet, and full of crunch—no need to chop, either!
Green onions, chopped (3): Peppery, fresh, and perfect for a pop of color at the end.
Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Just a few cloves make the whole dish sing with depth and aroma.
Soy sauce (3 tablespoons): Classic umami flavor binds everything together—use your favorite brand.
Oyster sauce, optional (1 tablespoon): Adds a hint of sweetness and depth—totally worth it if you have it on hand.
Sesame oil (1 teaspoon): Drizzled at the end, this oil brings that irresistible toasty aroma.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Season boldly and taste as you go—it’s your rice, your rules!

How to Make Easy Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Scramble the Eggs

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Pour in your beaten eggs and scramble them just until set, making sure not to overcook. Once they’re fluffy and just-cooked, transfer them to a plate and set aside. This way, the eggs stay tender and won’t get lost in the shuffle later on.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic and Veggies

Add your remaining tablespoon of oil to the hot skillet, then toss in the minced garlic. Sauté for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant—it’ll make your kitchen smell incredible. Next, stir in the mixed vegetables straight from the freezer and cook them for 2 to 3 minutes. They should be tender but still have a little bite for texture.

Step 3: Stir-Fry the Rice

With the veggies ready, tip in your cold, cooked rice. Break up any clumps with a spatula—don’t be shy! Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes, letting the rice heat through and develop those irresistible crispy edges. The rice should look slightly golden and feel perfectly dry, never mushy.

Step 4: Bring it All Together

Now’s the moment when the magic happens! Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet along with the chopped green onions. Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if you’re using it), and drizzle over the sesame oil. Toss everything together until the rice glistens and the flavorings are evenly distributed. Finally, taste and add salt and pepper to suit your liking. Serve your Easy Fried Rice Recipe piping hot and enjoy the rewards of your (minimal) efforts!

How to Serve Easy Fried Rice Recipe

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, sprinkle sliced green onions, a pinch of sesame seeds, or even a dash of chili flakes on top. Craving a little extra crunch? Try adding chopped roasted peanuts or crispy fried shallots—they bring fun textures to every bite.

Side Dishes

The Easy Fried Rice Recipe plays nicely with all your favorite Asian-inspired sides. Pair it with simple steamed dumplings, a bright cucumber salad, or some stir-fried bok choy. If you’re in the mood for more protein, sliced roast chicken, shrimp, or tofu turn this into a hearty, well-rounded dinner.

Creative Ways to Present

Give your fried rice the restaurant treatment! Serve it in a hollowed-out pineapple for a tropical twist or scoop it into bowls topped with a runny fried egg. Presenting it in mini lettuce cups or as the filling for a homemade wrap is also a fun way to delight guests (or make leftovers feel exciting).

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftover Easy Fried Rice Recipe to an airtight container as soon as possible. Refrigerate within two hours and enjoy within 3 days—the flavor stays great, and it makes a dream lunch for tomorrow!

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze leftover fried rice for easy meals later. Cool the rice completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. It’ll stay fresh for up to one month—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, toss the rice in a skillet with a splash of water or extra soy sauce, stirring until it’s hot and steamy again. The stovetop keeps everything crisp, but a microwave works well for quick lunches, too. Stir halfway through so it heats evenly!

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice is a fantastic alternative—it brings a hearty texture and nutty flavor to the Easy Fried Rice Recipe. Just make sure it’s cooked and chilled, just like with white rice, to prevent sticking.

What kind of vegetables work best?

Frozen mixed veggies are the easiest, but feel free to toss in fresh bell peppers, bean sprouts, chopped broccoli, or snap peas. Fried rice is wonderfully adaptable, so use whatever is in your fridge!

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To create a vegan Easy Fried Rice Recipe, simply skip the eggs and swap oyster sauce for a dash of hoisin or mushroom-based stir-fry sauce. Add some tofu for a protein boost and everyone will be happy!

Why does day-old rice work better for fried rice?

Day-old rice has dried out a bit in the fridge, making it less likely to turn mushy when stir-fried. This ensures every grain in your Easy Fried Rice Recipe gets lightly crisped and perfectly individual.

Can I add meat or seafood?

Definitely! Cooked chicken, shrimp, pork, or even sliced steak all work beautifully here. Just stir them in at the end to warm up, and you’ve got a protein-packed meal that rivals any restaurant.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Easy Fried Rice Recipe highly enough—it’s fast, flexible, and bursting with homemade flavor. Next time you find yourself with leftover rice, give this a spin and let it become your new go-to dinner staple. Enjoy every delicious spoonful!

Easy Fried Rice Recipe