Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I enjoy this recipe because it comes together fast and works perfectly with leftover rice. The onions and garlic build a savory base, the eggs add richness, and the soy sauce ties everything together. I also like how flexible it is, making it easy to customize based on what’s in my fridge.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
3 cups cooked white rice, preferably day-old
2 tablespoons oil
1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
1 onion, chopped
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 eggs, slightly beaten
3 tablespoons soy sauce
Ground black pepper, to taste
Green onions, for garnish
Directions
I start by heating the oil in a large pan over medium heat. I add the chopped onion and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and slightly softened.
Next, I stir in the peas and carrots and cook them until they’re tender. I lower the heat to medium-low and push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. On the empty side, I pour in the beaten eggs and gently stir them until fully cooked.
Once the eggs are set, I add the rice and soy sauce to the pan. I mix everything together thoroughly so the rice is evenly coated and heated through. I finish by seasoning with ground black pepper and give everything one last stir.
I garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
I usually get about 4 servings from this recipe.
Prep time is approximately 10 minutes.
Cook time is about 15 minutes.
Total time comes to roughly 25 minutes.
Variations
I sometimes add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu when I want extra protein. When I’m craving more flavor, I stir in a splash of sesame oil at the end. I’ve also added scrambled egg yolks only for a richer fried rice.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, I warm it in a pan or microwave, adding a small splash of water to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
Why should I use day-old rice?
I find day-old rice works best because it’s drier and fries up without becoming mushy.
Can I use fresh rice?
I can, but I let it cool completely first so it doesn’t clump together.
Is this recipe spicy?
I find it mild, but I add chili flakes or hot sauce when I want heat.
Can I use other vegetables?
I often swap in corn, bell peppers, or green beans depending on what I have.
What oil works best?
I usually use neutral oil, but I sometimes use a little sesame oil for extra flavor.
Conclusion
I find this easy egg fried rice to be the ultimate quick comfort meal. It’s simple, versatile, and full of flavor, making it a recipe I rely on whenever I want something fast, homemade, and satisfying.
PrintSo Easy Egg Fried Rice!
So easy egg fried rice made with day-old rice, eggs, vegetables, and soy sauce for a fast, flavorful homemade takeout favorite.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4
- Category: Main Course / Side Dish
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
3 cups cooked white rice (day-old works best)
2 tbsp oil
1 cup frozen peas and carrots, thawed
1 onion, chopped
1 tbsp minced garlic (about 3 cloves)
2 eggs, slightly beaten
3 tbsp soy sauce
Ground black pepper, to taste
Green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics
Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic and sauté until fragrant.
Cook Vegetables
Add peas and carrots. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until tender.
Scramble Eggs
Reduce heat to medium-low. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour beaten eggs into the empty side and scramble until just cooked.
Add Rice & Sauce
Add cooked rice and soy sauce. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
Finish
Stir-fry until rice is heated through. Season with ground black pepper to taste.
Serve
Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot.
Notes
Day-old rice prevents soggy fried rice.
Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein.
A splash of sesame oil adds great flavor.
Adjust soy sauce to taste or use low-sodium if preferred.

