Fried Rice Recipe

Name: Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (or jasmine); 1 egg, whisked; 1/2 cup chopped carrots; 1/2 cup peas; 1/2 cup white onion; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; Cooking oil (peanut, canola, or vegetable); Sesame oil (optional)

Published: June 3, 2025

by Olivia

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This Fried Rice Recipe is a delightful addition to any meal, offering a burst of flavor and a satisfying texture. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or as a side dish at gatherings. The combination of tender veggies, fluffy rice, and a savory sauce makes it irresistible. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite ingredients!

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This fried rice recipe takes only 35 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Flavor Packed: With the combination of butter and soy sauce, this dish is bursting with umami flavor that will satisfy your taste buds.
Versatile: Feel free to add your favorite proteins like chicken or shrimp for a heartier meal, or adjust the veggies based on what you have on hand.
Great Leftovers: This fried rice tastes even better the next day! It’s perfect for meal prep or using up leftover rice.
Family-Friendly: Kids love the colorful veggies and savory flavors, making this an excellent choice for family dinners.

Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with this delicious fried rice recipe, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make cooking smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet or wok
Spatula
Mixing bowls
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet or wok: A large cooking surface allows you to fry the rice evenly without overcrowding.
Spatula: Essential for stirring and breaking up the egg and rice while cooking.
Mixing bowls: Help keep ingredients organized before adding them to the skillet.

Ingredients

This simple hibachi-inspired fried rice is packed with flavor and easy to make. Made with white rice, butter, soy sauce, and veggies, it’s a delicious and versatile dish perfect for dinner or as a side.

For the Fried Rice

4 cups cooked short-grain white rice (long-grain or jasmine rice also works)
1 egg, whisked/scrambled
1/2 cup chopped carrots (fresh or frozen)
1/2 cup peas (frozen recommended)
1/2 cup white onion, chopped
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
2–3 tablespoons peanut, canola, or vegetable oil
2 teaspoons sesame oil (optional)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Fried Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Cook the rice according to package instructions. Once cooked, chill it in the refrigerator for at least one hour; overnight is best. This helps ensure that your fried rice doesn’t clump together.

Step 2: Soften the Butter

Leave your unsalted butter out on the counter until soft. If you’re in a hurry, microwave it in short intervals until softened. Mash with a fork and mix in the low-sodium soy sauce until combined.

Step 3: Cook the Egg

Heat a splash of oil in your large skillet or wok over medium heat. Pour in the whisked egg and scramble it quickly using your spatula. Break it into small chunks as it cooks. Once done, remove from heat and set aside on a plate.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies

Add another splash of oil to your skillet. Toss in carrots, peas, and onion. Sauté for about four minutes until tender. Season lightly with salt and pepper before removing them from heat onto the same plate as the egg.

Step 5: Fry the Rice

Pour another splash of oil into your skillet then add cold cooked rice. Toss every 30 seconds for about four to five minutes until warmed through and slightly browned. Adjust heat as needed to avoid burning.

Step 6: Season the Rice

Drizzle your butter-soy sauce mixture over the warm rice. Toss everything together to coat evenly until no visible white grains remain.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Return your sautéed vegetables and scrambled egg back into the skillet with the rice. Drizzle with sesame oil if desired. Stir well until everything is combined thoroughly. Taste for seasoning adjustments before serving immediately.

Enjoy this flavorful Fried Rice Recipe as part of your next meal!

How to Serve Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you want it as a main course or a side, here are some creative serving suggestions.

As a Main Course

Pair with grilled chicken: The savory flavors of fried rice complement the smoky taste of grilled chicken.
Add shrimp: Top your fried rice with sautéed shrimp for a delightful seafood twist.

As a Side Dish

Serve alongside teriyaki chicken: This classic combination enhances the meal with contrasting flavors.
Accompany with stir-fried vegetables: Fresh veggies add color and nutrition to your plate.

In a Bowl

Create a rice bowl: Layer fried rice with your choice of protein and fresh toppings like avocado or green onions for a hearty meal.
Use as filling for lettuce wraps: Spoon fried rice into crisp lettuce leaves for a fun and healthy appetizer.

How to Perfect Fried Rice Recipe

Perfecting your fried rice requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips for making the best fried rice.

Use cold rice: Cold, day-old rice works best because it prevents clumping and ensures even frying.
Prep ingredients beforehand: Have all your vegetables and proteins ready to go before cooking for smoother preparation.
Control the heat: Use medium-high heat to achieve that perfect crispy texture without burning the rice.
Keep stirring: Continuously stir the ingredients in the skillet to promote even cooking and prevent sticking.
Don’t overcrowd the pan: If making a large batch, cook in batches to maintain proper heat distribution.

Best Side Dishes for Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing its flavor and experience. Here are some great options to consider:

Egg Rolls: Crispy egg rolls filled with vegetables or meat add crunch to your meal.
Miso Soup: This light soup provides a warm contrast to the heartiness of fried rice.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds color and nutrition without overpowering the main dish.
Gyoza: Pan-fried dumplings stuffed with meat or vegetables offer another delightful texture.
Seaweed Salad: A refreshing seaweed salad brings brightness and contrast in flavor profiles.
Tempura Vegetables: Lightly battered and fried veggies provide an enjoyable crunch that complements fried rice well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your fried rice recipe, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

Using hot rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will clump together. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
Overcooking the vegetables: Sautéing veggies for too long can make them mushy. Cook them just until tender for a nice crunch.
Not seasoning enough: Skipping or skimping on soy sauce can lead to bland fried rice. Make sure to season generously to enhance the flavors.
Crowding the pan: Cooking too much rice at once can lead to uneven frying. Work in batches if necessary to ensure each grain gets heat.
Neglecting oil: Using too little oil can result in sticking. Be generous with oil to keep everything moving smoothly in the skillet.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
Allow it to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Fried Rice Recipe

Freeze fried rice in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags for up to 1 month.
Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Fried Rice Recipe

Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread fried rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through.
Microwave: Place a portion of fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until hot.
Stovetop: Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add fried rice and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make a healthier fried rice recipe?

You can reduce calories by using less oil and adding more vegetables. Brown rice is also a great alternative for added fiber.

Can I customize my fried rice recipe?

Absolutely! You can add chicken, shrimp, or tofu for protein, or include any veggies you like such as bell peppers or broccoli.

What is the best type of rice for this fried rice recipe?

Short-grain white rice works best as it becomes fluffy when cooked. However, jasmine or long-grain varieties are also suitable.

How do I prevent my fried rice from being sticky?

Using cold, day-old cooked rice helps prevent stickiness because it contains less moisture than freshly cooked rice.

Final Thoughts

This hibachi-inspired fried rice recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with different proteins and vegetables based on what you have at home. Don’t hesitate to give this quick dish a try; it’s perfect as a main course or side!

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Planning to try this recipe soon? Pin it for a quick find later!

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