Easy Egg Fried Rice Just Like Chinese Takeout

Name: Easy Egg Fried Rice Just Like Chinese Takeout
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold); 2 eggs, beaten; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 2 green onions, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Savor the deliciousness of homemade egg fried rice that's just as good as your favorite Chinese takeout. Quick and easy to prepare, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.

Created by

Isabella Clark

Last updated on 2025-12-21T09:00:57.471Z

This Easy Egg Fried Rice recipe is a beloved dish that brings the taste of your favorite Chinese takeout right into your kitchen. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, it's the perfect meal for busy weeknights.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to make in just 20 minutes
Versatile dish that can be customized with your favorite vegetables
Deliciously satisfying and perfect for using up leftover rice

      

The Perfect Rice for Fried Rice

Choosing the right rice is crucial for achieving the perfect egg fried rice. Day-old rice is ideal because it has dried out a bit, making it less sticky and clump-prone. If you don’t have leftover rice, you can cook fresh rice and let it cool completely before using it. Spread the hot rice on a baking sheet to cool quickly, or refrigerate it for at least an hour. The goal is to ensure the rice grains remain separate, allowing for a delightful texture in your fried rice.

Another tip for perfect rice is to use long-grain varieties such as jasmine or basmati. These types of rice tend to be fluffier and hold up well during stir-frying. Avoid short-grain rice, as it can become mushy and clump together, which is not ideal for fried rice dishes. Keeping these tips in mind will ensure that your egg fried rice has the right consistency and mouthfeel.

Customizing Your Egg Fried Rice

One of the best things about egg fried rice is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or to use up any leftover ingredients in your fridge. Consider adding proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more filling meal. Simply cook the protein in the skillet before adding the vegetables, ensuring everything is heated through before mixing in the rice.

Vegetables are another area where you can get creative. While this recipe suggests mixed vegetables, you can incorporate whatever you have on hand—bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas work well. Just remember to chop them into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. This flexibility not only enhances the flavor but also makes it easier to cater to picky eaters or those with dietary restrictions.

Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Quality Fried Rice

Ingredients

Ingredients for Easy Egg Fried Rice

2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold)
2 eggs, beaten
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 green onions, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure to use cold, leftover rice for the best texture.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients

Gather all your ingredients and ensure the cooked rice is cold to prevent clumping.

Cook the Eggs

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the beaten eggs and scramble until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, then toss in the mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until tender.

Combine Rice and Eggs

Add the cold rice to the skillet and mix well with the vegetables. Pour in the soy sauce and stir to combine. Add the scrambled eggs and mix everything together. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve hot!

Enjoy your homemade egg fried rice as a main dish or a delightful side!

Serving Suggestions

Egg fried rice can be a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with various dishes. Serve it alongside classic Chinese dishes like sweet and sour chicken or beef and broccoli for a hearty feast. Alternatively, it can be enjoyed as a side dish to grilled meats or even a fresh salad, providing a satisfying carb component to your meal.

For a quick lunch, pack the egg fried rice in a bento box with some sliced cucumbers or pickled vegetables. This combination not only looks appealing but also adds a refreshing crunch that complements the richness of the fried rice.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, storing your egg fried rice is easy. Allow it to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or soy sauce to the pan to prevent the rice from drying out. Stir-frying it in a hot skillet is the best method for reviving the dish, ensuring it remains flavorful and enjoyable.

For longer storage, consider freezing the fried rice in individual portions. This makes for a quick meal option on busy days. Just remember to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, and you’ll have a delicious homemade dish ready in minutes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, brown rice works well but may require a longer cooking time.

→ Is it necessary to use cold rice?

Yes, cold rice prevents clumping and ensures a good stir-fry texture.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add bell peppers, broccoli, or any of your favorite vegetables.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the eggs or replace them with scrambled tofu.