Easy and Flavorful Chinese Fried Rice Recipe

Name: Easy and Flavorful Chinese Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old); 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 3 green onions, chopped; 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas and carrots); 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Posted on March 10, 2025

Catch a whiff of sizzling garlic and soy sauce wafting through your kitchen. Picture a vibrant medley of colorful vegetables dancing in harmony with fluffy grains of rice. Welcome to the world of Chinese Fried Rice—a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also warms your heart on chilly evenings or during family gatherings.

This delightful dish has been a staple in my household since childhood. I still remember the first time my mom whipped up a batch in our tiny kitchen. It was like magic—one moment there was just plain old rice, and the next, it transformed into this glorious feast! Now it’s my turn to share this culinary treasure with you and create memories that sizzle just as much.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This delicious Chinese fried rice is incredibly easy to whip up using leftover rice
Packed with bold flavors and vibrant colors, it’s a feast for the eyes and palate
You can customize it with any protein or veggies you have on hand
Perfect for busy weeknights or as a side dish for gatherings!

I once made this dish for my friends’ game night, and let’s just say they devoured it faster than I could serve seconds!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Cooked Rice: Use day-old rice if possible; it’s drier and won’t clump together while cooking.
Vegetable Oil: A high smoke point oil like canola or peanut oil works best for frying.
Eggs: Scrambled eggs add richness; feel free to adjust the number based on preference.
Green Onions: Fresh green onions lend a lovely crunch; chop them finely for better distribution.
Mixed Vegetables: Frozen peas and carrots are great options; they save prep time while adding color.
Soy Sauce: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Sesame Oil: Just a dash adds an irresistible nutty aroma that elevates the entire dish!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Gather Your Ingredients: Start by laying out all your ingredients on the counter. This makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Heat Your Pan: In a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat, add vegetable oil until it’s hot but not smoking—around 350°F (175°C) is ideal.

Add Eggs First: Crack in your eggs and scramble them until they’re just set. They should be fluffy and slightly undercooked as they’ll finish cooking later with the rice.

Add Vegetables Next: Toss in your mixed vegetables along with chopped green onions. Sauté until they become tender and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes will do nicely.

Stir in the Rice: Add your cooked rice to the pan. Break apart any clumps gently with a spatula until everything is evenly combined.

Season to Perfection: Drizzle soy sauce over the mixture, stirring well to ensure even coating. Finish with a dash of sesame oil for that extra depth of flavor.

Now sit back and enjoy your homemade Chinese Fried Rice! The aroma alone will have everyone gathering around the table eagerly waiting for their first bite!

You Must Know

Chinese fried rice is a symphony of flavors that can be easily customized
The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds
A perfect dish for using up leftovers while creating a satisfying meal that feels luxurious

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your protein first, then stir-fry vegetables before adding rice and sauces. This sequence ensures everything cooks evenly and flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in any leftover proteins or veggies you have on hand. Adding sesame oil or fresh herbs elevates the dish’s flavor profile.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Chinese fried rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

For perfect fried rice, use day-old rice for the best texture
Sauté over high heat to avoid sogginess
Don’t overcrowd the pan; it needs space to fry properly!

Cooking Chinese fried rice always brings back memories of family gatherings where my mom would whip up large batches, and we’d devour them like ravenous wolves.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but adjust cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

What vegetables work best in Chinese fried rice?

Carrots, peas, bell peppers, and green onions add great flavor and color.

How do I prevent my fried rice from being mushy?

Use cold, day-old rice for the best texture and avoid excess moisture during cooking.