Homemade Fried Rice

Homemade Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful dish that’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients. Made with day-old rice, fresh vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a savory soy sauce blend, this dish is perfect as a side or a complete meal. Whether you’re using chicken, shrimp, or keeping it vegetarian, this fried rice is better than takeout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes.
  • Customizable – Use any protein or veggies you like.
  • Better Than Takeout – Fresh ingredients with bold flavors.
  • Great for Leftovers – Perfect for using up leftover rice.
  • One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup with a delicious result!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
  • 2 eggs (beaten)
  • ½ cup onion (diced)
  • ½ cup carrots (diced)
  • ½ cup peas (frozen or fresh)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional for extra depth)
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil (for finishing)
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • Green onions (chopped, for garnish)

Directions

  1. Prepare Ingredients – Have all ingredients ready, as cooking moves fast.
  2. Scramble the Eggs – Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add beaten eggs, scramble, and remove from the pan.
  3. Sauté Veggies – Add another tablespoon of oil. Cook onions, carrots, and peas until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
  4. Add Rice – Stir in the cooked rice, breaking up any clumps.
  5. Season & Stir-Fry – Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), black pepper, and scrambled eggs. Toss everything together.
  6. Finish & Serve – Drizzle with sesame oil, garnish with green onions, and serve hot!

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: 4
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

  • Chicken Fried Rice: Add cooked, diced chicken.
  • Shrimp Fried Rice: Toss in cooked shrimp at the end.
  • Vegetarian Fried Rice: Use extra veggies like bell peppers and mushrooms.
  • Spicy Fried Rice: Add Sriracha or red pepper flakes.
  • Pineapple Fried Rice: Mix in diced pineapple for a sweet twist.

Storage/Reheating

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Freezing: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before reheating.
  • Reheating: Stir-fry in a pan with a little oil, or microwave with a splash of water.

FAQs

What’s the best rice for fried rice?

Day-old jasmine rice works best—it’s drier and prevents mushiness.

Can I use freshly cooked rice?

Yes! Spread it out on a baking sheet and let it cool for 30 minutes before using.

What can I substitute for oyster sauce?

Use hoisin sauce or soy sauce with a little sugar.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

How do I prevent rice from sticking?

Use high heat and stir frequently to prevent sticking.

Can I add bacon?

Absolutely! Crispy bacon adds extra flavor.

How do I make it restaurant-style?

Use high heat, a wok, and a bit of butter for extra richness.

Can I make it without eggs?

Yes! Just skip the eggs or use tofu as an alternative.

What can I serve with fried rice?

Pair it with dumplings, spring rolls, or a side of stir-fried vegetables.

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes! Just thaw them slightly before cooking.

Conclusion

Homemade Fried Rice is an easy, delicious way to enjoy restaurant-style flavors at home. With its simple ingredients, quick prep, and endless variations, this dish is perfect for a fast, satisfying meal. Try it today and enjoy a homemade classic that beats takeout every time!

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Homemade Fried Rice

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This Homemade Fried Rice is quick, flavorful, and better than takeout! Made with leftover rice, fresh veggies, scrambled eggs, and a savory soy-based sauce, this dish is perfect as a side or a complete meal with your favorite protein. 🍚🔥🥢

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish, Side Dish
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian, Chinese-Inspired

Ingredients

Scale

For the Fried Rice:

  • 3 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, day-old rice for best texture)
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
  • 1/2 cup onion (diced)
  • 1/2 cup carrots (diced)
  • 1/2 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 eggs (beaten)
  • 1/4 cup green onions (chopped, for garnish)

For the Sauce:

  • 3 tbsp soy sauce (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 tsp sesame oil (adds authentic flavor)
  • 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • 1/2 tsp white or black pepper

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu (for a protein boost)
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes or sriracha (for heat)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

  1. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to dry out. (Day-old rice is best!)
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce (if using), and white/black pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Eggs

  1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add beaten eggs and scramble until just cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Veggies

  1. Add another 1 tbsp oil to the pan.
  2. Stir-fry onions, carrots, and peas for 3-4 minutes, until slightly softened.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Rice

  1. Increase heat to high and add cold rice to the pan.
  2. Stir continuously for 3-4 minutes, breaking up clumps and evenly distributing the veggies.

Step 5: Add Sauce & Eggs

  1. Pour in the soy sauce mixture and mix well to coat the rice.
  2. Stir in the scrambled eggs and green onions, tossing everything together.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

  • Remove from heat and serve hot.
  • Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha.

Notes

  • Best Rice for Fried Rice: Use cold, day-old rice for a firmer texture. Fresh rice can turn mushy.
  • Protein Additions: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a full meal.
  • Soy Sauce Tip: Adjust soy sauce based on salt preference—start with 2 tbsp and add more as needed.
  • Make It Vegan: Skip the eggs and use tofu or extra veggies.


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