Fried rice is the ultimate go-to meal for busy days—quick, versatile, and satisfying. Packed with veggies, protein, and flavor, it’s a one-pan wonder that can be ready in under 20 minutes. This recipe is perfect for lunch, dinner, or using up leftover rice and ingredients in your fridge.
Ingredients (Serves 2-3)
2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, leftover rice works best)
2 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or sesame oil)
2 eggs
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers, etc.)
1/2 cup cooked protein (chicken, shrimp, tofu, or ham – optional)
2-3 tablespoons soy sauce (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
Salt and pepper to taste
Green onions or cilantro for garnish
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Before starting, make sure all your ingredients are chopped and ready to go. Cold, leftover rice works best because it’s firmer and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.
Tip: Dice vegetables into small, uniform pieces for quick and even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Beat the eggs in a small bowl and pour them into the skillet.
Scramble the eggs until just cooked, then remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet.
Sauté the chopped onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4: Add Vegetables and Protein
Toss in your mixed vegetables and cook for 3-5 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp.
If you’re using cooked protein, add it now and stir-fry for another 2 minutes to heat through.
Step 5: Add the Rice
Add the cold rice to the skillet.
Break up any clumps with a spatula and stir-fry to combine with the vegetables and protein.
Continue stir-frying for 3-5 minutes, allowing the rice to get slightly crispy.
Step 6: Season the Fried Rice
Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil (if using).
Stir well to coat the rice evenly.
Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
Step 7: Add Eggs and Garnish
Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and mix them thoroughly with the rice.
Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for freshness.
Step 8: Serve Hot
Your easy fried rice is ready! Serve it as a main dish or a side for your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Tips for Busy Days
Use leftover rice: Day-old rice works best and reduces cooking time.
Prep ingredients ahead: Chop vegetables and protein in advance to save time.
One-pan cooking: Using a wok or large skillet makes cleanup easy.
Customize flavors: Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, or chili sauce according to your taste.
Add crunch: Top with toasted sesame seeds or roasted cashews for texture.
Conclusion
This easy fried rice recipe for busy days is quick, adaptable, and delicious. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a flavorful meal that satisfies your cravings and saves time. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this fried rice is a reliable go-to recipe for busy schedules.