Quick and Easy Fried Rice

Quick and Easy Fried Rice

There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of fried rice, isn’t there? Flavorful, fluffy, and bursting with colors from fresh vegetables, it’s the ultimate solution for busy weeknight dinners. Whether you have leftover rice sitting in your fridge or just need a one-pan meal to whip up in under 30 minutes, this Quick and Easy Fried Rice is both satisfying and fun. Did you know that fried rice has been a staple in various Asian cuisines for centuries? It was originally created as a way to avoid wasting leftover rice, a clever and delicious solution that still holds true today. This dish stands out in its versatility; you can easily customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand. Compared to other popular recipes on the blog, like our creamy Chicken Alfredo, fried rice brings a quick-to-cook, one-pan delight that the entire family will adore. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to dive into the world of flavors with this simple and quick recipe!

What is Quick and Easy Fried Rice?
So, what exactly is this delightful dish we call fried rice? Let’s break it down: it’s a savory medley of cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, and a protein of your choice, all cooked together in one pan with flavorful seasonings. What’s in a name, you ask? The term "fried rice" might make you think of extravagant dinners, but in reality, it’s the go-to meal when you need something delicious and manageable. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach," and fried rice is sure to win hearts with its simple comfort and customizable nature. Ready to turn that leftover rice into something scrumptious? Grab a pot and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Quick and Easy Fried Rice:
You’re probably wondering why this dish deserves a permanent spot on your dinner table. Firstly, the main highlight is its quick preparation time! In just about 15-20 minutes, you can have a colorful and delicious meal ready to go. Plus, making fried rice at home is a fantastic way to save money compared to ordering takeout. Secondly, the flavor combinations are truly endless! Whether you’re a fan of soy sauce, garlic, or even sesame oil, fried rice allows you to play with flavors in delightful ways. Lastly, the addition of vibrant vegetables gives the dish a fresh crunch, making it not just appetizing but visually appealing too! If you enjoy trying out various rice dishes, you’ll also want to check out our flavorful Veggie Pilaf for another easy go-to recipe. Now that you’re hungry, why not give this Quick and Easy Fried Rice a try?

How to Make Quick and Easy Fried Rice:

Quick Overview

Creating a delicious bowl of fried rice couldn’t be simpler! With a preparation time of around 15 minutes, this dish combines cooked rice, colorful veggies, and your choice of protein in one convenient pan. Plus, it’s perfect for using up those leftovers from last night’s dinner! It’s simple, satisfying, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters in the family.

Key Ingredients for Quick and Easy Fried Rice:

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this dish to life:

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
• 2 eggs
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional protein (diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rice: If you’re using fresh rice, cook it first and let it cool. But day-old, cold rice works best to prevent sticking.
2. scramble the eggs: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat, and scramble the eggs. Remove and set aside when fully cooked.
3. Sauté the Veggies: In the same pan, add a splash of sesame oil, and toss in garlic and the mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender.
4. Combine it All: Add the rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Then, pour in the soy sauce along with the cooked eggs and mix well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.
5. Final Touches: Stir in the green onions, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm!

What to Serve Quick and Easy Fried Rice With:
To create a well-rounded meal around your fried rice, consider pairing it with some crispy spring rolls or a light cucumber salad. You could even serve it alongside savory dumplings for a delightful feast. If you’re in the mood for something refreshing, a glass of ice-cold lemonade or a light Asian-inspired iced tea also pairs wonderfully with this dish.

Top Tips for Perfecting Quick and Easy Fried Rice:
To make your fried rice truly shine, here are some top tips:

• Use Cold Rice: Day-old rice is best as it has less moisture and prevents clumping.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: If making a large batch, consider cooking in smaller amounts to ensure even cooking.
• Add more flavor: Experiment with additional sauces like oyster sauce or hoisin for that extra punch.
• Be Creative: Feel free to mix in whatever leftovers you might have, like beef or extra veggies!

Storing and Reheating Tips:
If you have leftovers (which is a rare treat because everyone loves this dish!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge, where they should last about 3-4 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave with a splash of water to help steam and prevent drying out. If you want to freeze it, store it in freezer-safe containers, and it can last up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best results.

With this Quick and Easy Fried Rice recipe, you’re equipped to serve up a dish that’s not only satisfying and packed with flavor but also super simple to make. So why wait? Grab your ingredients, invite your family to join in the cooking fun, and create a delicious meal together! Happy cooking!

Quick and Easy Fried Rice

A flavorful and colorful bowl of fried rice made with cooked rice, sautéed vegetables, and your choice of protein, all in under 30 minutes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian, Chinese

Calories: 350

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice) Day-old rice is less moist, reducing the chance of clumping.
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers) Feel free to use any veggies you have on hand.
• 2 pieces eggs Scrambled in the pan.
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil For cooking the eggs.
• 2 pieces green onions, chopped For garnish.
• 1 clove garlic, minced Add more if you love garlic.
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional protein (diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu) Choose based on your preference.

Method

 

Preparation

1. If you're using fresh rice, cook it first and let it cool. Day-old rice works best to prevent sticking.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat, and scramble the eggs. Remove and set aside when fully cooked.
3. In the same pan, add a splash of sesame oil, toss in garlic and the mixed vegetables. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the veggies are tender.
4. Add the rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Then, pour in the soy sauce along with the cooked eggs and mix well. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, ensuring everything is heated through.
5. Stir in the green onions, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve warm.

Notes

To enhance flavor, consider experimenting with additional sauces like oyster sauce or hoisin. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.