When you’re craving the comforting flavors of takeout fried rice but want a fresher and healthier version, making it at home is the best option. This homemade fried rice is quick, packed with flavor, and even better than your favorite restaurant version. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up this rice recipe easy for a delicious meal or side dish.
Why Make Homemade Fried Rice?
Store-bought or restaurant fried rice often contains excess oil, sodium, and preservatives. By preparing it at home, you control the ingredients, making it a healthier and more budget-friendly option. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice and customize the dish to your taste.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and cooled white rice (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- ½ cup diced carrots
- ½ cup frozen peas
- ½ cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 eggs, lightly beaten
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for extra umami)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- ½ teaspoon white or black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped
- ½ cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
For the best results, use day-old rice as it prevents the dish from becoming mushy. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook the Vegetables
Heat a large pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add vegetable oil and sauté the diced onion, carrots, and garlic for about 2 minutes. Stir in the peas and cook for another minute.
3. Scramble the Eggs
Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Pour the beaten eggs into the empty space and scramble them until fully cooked. Mix them with the vegetables.
4. Stir-Fry the Rice
Add the cooked rice to the pan and break up any clumps using a spatula. Stir everything together, ensuring the rice is well combined with the veggies and eggs.
5. Season and Add Protein
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and pepper. Stir well so the rice absorbs all the flavors. If adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu, mix it in at this stage.
6. Finish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped green onions over the rice and give it a final stir. Serve hot as a rice side dish or enjoy it as a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Homemade Chinese Fried Rice
- Use cold rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too soft, making the dish mushy. Chilled, day-old rice works best.
- Cook on high heat: A hot pan helps achieve that signature takeout-style texture.
- Customize with proteins: Add shrimp, chicken, beef, or tofu for extra heartiness.
- Try different seasonings: Experiment with hoisin sauce, chili flakes, or even a dash of fish sauce for unique flavors.
Prep & Cook Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 2-3
Final Thoughts
This fried rice recipe easy is a fantastic way to enjoy homemade Chinese food without the added cost or waiting time of takeout. Whether you’re looking for rice dishes recipes to use up leftovers or a quick and flavorful meal, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Next time you’re tempted to order out, try this better than takeout fried rice and experience homemade perfection.
