Fried rice is a classic, quick, and flavorful dish that can be made with simple ingredients you already have at home. Whether you prefer it vegetarian, with chicken, shrimp, or beef, this recipe will give you restaurant-style fried rice that’s packed with flavor!
Perfect for meal prep, using up leftovers, or a quick weeknight dinner, this fried rice recipe is customizable and incredibly satisfying. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Fried Rice Recipe
✅ Quick & Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes!
✅ Versatile – Use any protein or vegetables you have on hand.
✅ Better than Takeout – No MSG, just fresh, homemade goodness.
✅ One-Pan Dish – Minimal cleanup required.
✅ Customizable – Make it spicy, mild, vegetarian, or protein-packed!
Ingredients for Fried Rice
🥢 Base Ingredients:
✔️ 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
✔️ 2 tbsp oil (sesame oil for the best flavor or any neutral oil)
✔️ 2 eggs, beaten (for richness)
✔️ 1 small onion, finely chopped
✔️ 2 garlic cloves, minced
✔️ 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, corn, etc.)
✔️ 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
🍗 Protein Options (Pick One or Mix!):
✔️ 1 cup cooked chicken (diced or shredded)
✔️ ½ cup cooked shrimp
✔️ ½ cup beef (thinly sliced)
✔️ 1 cup tofu (cubed, for a vegetarian option)
🥢 Seasoning & Sauce:
✔️ 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
✔️ 1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional but adds depth)
✔️ 1 tsp fish sauce (for extra umami, optional)
✔️ ½ tsp black pepper
✔️ ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
✔️ ½ tsp chili flakes or sriracha (for a spicy kick, optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Rice & Ingredients
1️⃣ Use day-old rice for the best texture—cold rice fries up crispier!
2️⃣ If using fresh rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool for 30 minutes in the fridge before frying.
3️⃣ Chop all vegetables, garlic, onions, and proteins so they’re ready to cook quickly.
🌟 Tip: Jasmine or Basmati rice works best for fried rice due to its non-sticky texture.
2️⃣ Cook the Eggs & Protein
1️⃣ Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked. Remove and set aside.
3️⃣ Add the protein of your choice (chicken, shrimp, tofu, etc.) and cook until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
🌟 Tip: For the best texture, sear the protein without stirring too much!
3️⃣ Sauté the Vegetables
1️⃣ Add another 1 tbsp of oil to the pan.
2️⃣ Stir-fry onions and garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3️⃣ Add mixed vegetables and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
🌟 Tip: If using frozen vegetables, rinse and drain them well before adding.
4️⃣ Add the Rice & Sauce
1️⃣ Increase heat to high and add the cold rice to the pan.
2️⃣ Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce (if using), salt, and black pepper.
3️⃣ Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes, breaking up any clumps of rice.
4️⃣ Toss back in the cooked eggs and protein, mixing everything well.
🌟 Tip: Press the rice against the pan for 30 seconds before stirring to get that crispy, golden texture!
5️⃣ Garnish & Serve
1️⃣ Turn off the heat and sprinkle with chopped green onions.
2️⃣ Drizzle a little sesame oil for extra flavor.
3️⃣ Serve hot with extra soy sauce, sriracha, or chili flakes on the side.
🔥 Optional Toppings: Fried egg, crushed peanuts, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Storage & Meal Prep Tips
🧊 Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
🔥 Reheat on a pan with a splash of water or oil to restore freshness.
❄️ Freeze fried rice for up to 2 months in portion-sized containers.
🌟 Tip: Always reheat fried rice on a stovetop rather than a microwave for the best texture!
Final Thoughts: Better-Than-Takeout Fried Rice!
This homemade fried rice is fast, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Once you master this base recipe, you can experiment with different sauces, proteins, and vegetables to make it your own.
