10-Minute Easy Egg Fried Rice (Only 6 Ingredients!)

I’m sharing one of my favorite fast and budget-friendly meals—Egg Fried Rice. It’s ready in just 10 minutes and made with only six ingredients, using day-old rice, eggs, soy sauce, and a few simple flavor boosters. It’s quick, satisfying, and tastes like your favorite takeout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish transforms basic ingredients into something deeply flavorful and comforting. The sesame oil adds richness, while the green onions and soy sauce create that familiar takeout-style depth. It’s incredibly flexible too—I can serve it solo or as a side with stir-fries, dumplings, or grilled meats. And with just one pan, cleanup is a breeze.

ingredients

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

• 2 cups cold, day-old cooked jasmine rice (or any long grain white rice)

• 4 large eggs, beaten

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)

• 1 green onion, finely chopped

• 2½ tablespoons regular or light soy sauce (avoid dark soy sauce)

• ½ tablespoon sesame oil

directions

1. I heat the vegetable oil in a large pan or wok. If using a wok, I wait until the oil begins to smoke lightly.

2. I pour in the beaten eggs and quickly stir-fry them until they begin to set but remain slightly moist.

3. I toss in the rice while the eggs are still soft, breaking apart any clumps as I mix everything together.

4. I push the rice and eggs to one side of the pan, then add the remaining oil and green onions to the open space, letting them sizzle briefly before mixing into the rest.

5. I pour the soy sauce and sesame oil along the edges of the pan, letting them warm slightly before tossing everything together until the rice is evenly colored and fragrant.

6. I remove the pan from heat and serve the fried rice hot, straight from the pan.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings.

• Prep Time: 2 minutes

• Cook Time: 8 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I toss the rice in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce until warmed through. The microwave works too—just cover it and stir halfway through to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

1. Why does day-old rice work better?

It’s drier and firmer, which helps prevent the fried rice from becoming mushy. Fresh rice tends to clump and steam too much in the pan.

2. Can I add vegetables or protein?

Yes—chopped carrots, peas, shrimp, tofu, or chicken make great add-ins. I cook those first, then follow the rest of the steps.

3. What if I only have fresh rice?

I spread fresh rice out on a tray and chill it for 30–60 minutes to dry it out slightly before using it in the recipe.

4. Can I make it gluten-free?

I use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the dish gluten-free—just be sure all other ingredients are compliant.

5. What’s the difference between light and dark soy sauce?

Light soy sauce is saltier and thinner, which works better for fried rice. Dark soy sauce is thicker and sweeter and can overpower the dish.

6. How do I get the rice to crisp up?

I let it sit undisturbed in the pan for 30–60 seconds before stirring to develop a bit of crispiness.

7. Is sesame oil necessary?

It adds that classic nutty finish, but if I’m out, I leave it off or use a few drops of toasted sesame oil at the end.

8. Can I make this vegan?

Yes—I skip the eggs or use a plant-based egg substitute and keep the rest of the recipe the same.

9. How do I keep the eggs from overcooking?

I stir quickly and add the rice while the eggs are still a bit soft. The carryover heat finishes them gently.

10. What’s the best rice to use?

I prefer jasmine or long grain white rice for the best texture, but any type will work if it’s not too moist.

Conclusion

This 10-Minute Egg Fried Rice is my go-to for quick, delicious comfort food that’s versatile and pantry-friendly. It’s simple enough for busy nights but delivers bold flavor and satisfying texture every time. Whether I enjoy it solo or with add-ins, it never disappoints.

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