Homemade Fried Rice is a quick, delicious, and satisfying dish that transforms leftover rice into a flavorful meal. Packed with vegetables, eggs, and your choice of protein, this versatile recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend lunch. It’s a fantastic way to clean out the fridge while still enjoying a meal that tastes even better than takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Perfect for using up leftover rice and vegetables
Comes together in under 30 minutes
Easily customizable with your favorite proteins
Budget-friendly and great for meal prep
Tastes better than your favorite takeout version
Great as a main dish or side
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
Naturally dairy-free and can be made gluten-free
Balanced with carbs, protein, and vegetables
Only one pan needed for minimal cleanup

ingredients

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

Cooked and cooled white rice (preferably a day old)
Eggs
Vegetable oil or sesame oil
Garlic, minced
Onion, chopped
Mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, and corn)
Soy sauce
Green onions, chopped
Optional: protein like cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu
Salt and pepper to taste

directions

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chopped onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
Push the aromatics to the side of the pan and scramble the eggs in the same skillet until just cooked.
Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
Add the rice and break apart clumps, stirring well to combine with the veggies and eggs.
Drizzle in the soy sauce and stir to evenly coat the rice.
Add cooked protein, if using, and stir-fry for a couple more minutes.
Taste and adjust with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce as needed.
Stir in green onions just before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 servings.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist
Add sriracha or chili flakes for a spicy kick
Swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free version
Use leftover pork, beef, or rotisserie chicken for added protein
Add pineapple chunks for a sweet-and-savory Hawaiian twist
Include bean sprouts or chopped cabbage for extra crunch
Try hoisin sauce or oyster sauce for extra depth of flavor

storage/reheating

Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil until hot, or microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Fried rice can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep fried rice from getting mushy?

Use cold, day-old rice. Fresh rice holds too much moisture, which can make the dish soggy.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great substitute and adds a nutty flavor and extra fiber.

What oil is best for fried rice?

Neutral oils like vegetable oil, canola oil, or sesame oil work best due to their high smoke points.

Do I need a wok to make fried rice?

No, a large nonstick skillet works just fine for home cooking.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

Absolutely. Use plant-based protein like tofu and replace the eggs with a vegan substitute or omit them.

Why is my fried rice not flavorful?

Try increasing the soy sauce, adding sesame oil, or including more aromatics like garlic and ginger.

Can I add sauces to change the flavor?

Yes, hoisin, oyster sauce, or even teriyaki sauce can change the flavor profile.

Is it safe to reheat fried rice?

Yes, as long as it’s stored properly and reheated to 165°F, it’s safe to eat.

How can I make fried rice without soy sauce?

Use alternatives like coconut aminos, tamari, or a splash of fish sauce and lemon juice for umami.

Can I add eggs after the rice?

It’s best to scramble eggs first, but you can also create a well in the center after adding rice to cook them.

Conclusion

Homemade Fried Rice is a quick, tasty, and endlessly customizable meal that’s perfect for using up leftovers and cutting down on waste. Whether you’re making it as a main course or a flavorful side, this easy recipe will become a go-to favorite in your kitchen. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to takeout again.