I make this fried rice with egg whenever I have leftover rice in the fridge. It’s fast, flavorful, and uses simple ingredients I always have on hand. There’s something so satisfying about turning simple staples into a quick weeknight fried rice.
Easy Meal for Busy Weeknights
I love that this easy meal solves the weeknight dilemma of needing something quick but still homemade. There’s no long list of sauces or fancy add-ins here, just rice, eggs, onion, and soy sauce working together. The rice gets lightly crisp, the eggs coat every grain, and the flavor is as comforting as it is simple.
I found this easy fried rice recipe tucked inside my grandma’s recipe box. She kept it for a reason. Just a few ingredients, a warm pan, and a few minutes later, dinner is ready. Using day-old rice gives it that perfect texture that’s fluffy, not sticky. The soy sauce adds just enough depth. I sometimes make a batch of instant pot rice ahead of time so it’s ready to go when I need a quick meal. Much like my chicken and rice casserole, it’s simple, reliable, and always welcome.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Olive oil: Helps the onions soften and gives the rice a light, flavorful coating. You can use vegetable or canola oil if that’s what you have on hand.
- Onion: Adds a little sweetness and depth to the fried rice. I like using yellow onion, but white or even green onions work too.
- Cooked rice: The base of the dish and what gives it that classic fried rice texture. Cold, day-old rice is best since it’s drier and won’t clump together.
- Soy sauce: Brings that savory, salty flavor that ties everything together. You can use low-sodium soy sauce if you prefer a lighter taste.
- Eggs: Add protein and a soft, rich texture that coats the rice beautifully. Beat them well before adding so they mix evenly into the dish.
How to Make Fried Rice with Egg
Preparation
Set out all ingredients before you begin. Dice the onion and beat the eggs in a small bowl. Have the cooked rice ready. Cold, day-old rice works best for a fluffy, non-sticky texture.
Step 1 – Sauté the Onion
Heat the olive oil in a 12-inch pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant. The onion should turn slightly translucent but not brown.
Step 2 – Add the Rice and Soy Sauce
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing well to coat the rice evenly. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and lightly golden.
Step 3 – Add the Eggs
Slowly pour the beaten eggs over the rice while stirring continuously. Keep stirring for about 5 minutes, allowing the eggs to cook and coat the rice evenly. Continue until the eggs are fully set and no longer runny.
Step 4 – Serve Warm
Remove the pan from heat and give the rice a final stir. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture. Enjoy as a quick meal or a simple side dish.
Lynette’s Tip
Use cold, day-old rice if possible. It’s drier than freshly cooked rice and helps create that fluffy, non-sticky texture that makes fried rice so good.
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Fried Rice with Egg
Equipment
- 12 inch saute pan
Ingredients
- 2 Tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 Cup onion diced
- 2 Cups cooked rice
- 2 Tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 large eggs beaten
Instructions
- Sauté Onion: Heat olive oil in a 12-inch pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and cook for about 3 minutes, until soft and fragrant.
- Add Rice Mixture: Reduce heat to low. Stir in the cooked rice and soy sauce, mixing well to evenly coat the rice. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and slightly golden.
- Add Eggs Slowly: Pour in the beaten eggs and stir continuously, allowing them to cook and coat the rice evenly. Continue stirring for about 5 minutes, until the eggs are fully cooked and no longer runny.
- Serve Immediately: Remove from heat and serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
Variations
- Add Mixed Vegetables: Stir in a handful of frozen peas, diced carrots, or corn when you add the rice. It adds color, flavor, and a little extra nutrition.
- Use Different Oils: Try sesame oil for a deeper, nutty flavor or butter for a richer taste. Each gives the fried rice a slightly different finish.
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or diced ham to make it a heartier meal. Just warm the protein before adding it to the rice.
Nutrition
Recipe FAQs
You can, but the texture will be softer and may stick together more. If you only have fresh rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for about 30 minutes before cooking.
Pour the beaten eggs in slowly while stirring the rice continuously. This helps the eggs coat the rice evenly instead of forming large pieces.
Let the rice sit undisturbed in the pan for a minute or two before stirring. This allows the bottom layer to brown slightly and adds a nice texture.
It pairs nicely with grilled chicken drumsticks, stir-fried vegetables, or even a simple salad. It’s also satisfying enough to enjoy on its own.
