Dinner

Chinese Fried Rice Recipe

Name: Chinese Fried Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients: 4 cups cold cooked white rice; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 2 large eggs, beaten; 1/2 cup diced onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp grated fresh ginger; 1 cup frozen peas and carrots; 3 tbsp soy sauce; 1 tsp toasted sesame oil; 1/4 tsp ground white pepper; 2 green onions, sliced; 8 oz cooked protein (optional)

Byluca Carter October 17, 2026October 17, 2026

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Introduction

Chinese fried rice is a quick and satisfying dish perfect for using leftover rice. With simple ingredients like eggs, vegetables, and soy sauce, it delivers bold flavors and a delightful texture in just 20 minutes.

A large white bowl filled with a single layer of cooked couscous that is light brown and fluffy, mixed evenly with small diced orange carrots and green peas. On top, scattered grilled golden-brown chicken pieces that show visible grill marks and look juicy. The dish is finished with slices of fresh green onions and some whole green peas spread evenly on the top, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 cups cold cooked white rice
2 tbsp vegetable oil

2 large eggs, beaten
1/2 cup diced onion

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp grated fresh ginger

1 cup frozen peas and carrots
3 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp toasted sesame oil

1/4 tsp ground white pepper
2 green onions, sliced
8 oz cooked protein (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until softly set. Remove the eggs from the skillet to a plate and set aside.
Step 2: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil to the skillet. Stir in the diced onion, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 4: Add the cold cooked rice, spreading it in a layer in the pan. Stir-fry over high heat for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing the rice to develop golden spots.
Step 5: Stir in the soy sauce and ground white pepper, mixing well.
Step 6: Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Add the sliced green onions and drizzle the toasted sesame oil over everything. Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra protein, add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu along with the vegetables.
Use day-old rice for the best texture; fresh rice can be too soft and clump together.
Adjust soy sauce to taste if you prefer a milder or saltier fried rice.

For a spicier kick, add a pinch of crushed red pepper or a splash of chili sauce.

Storage

Store leftover fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until steaming hot, adding a splash of water or oil if needed to loosen the rice.

How to Serve

A large white bowl filled with a richly textured dish made of bulgur wheat mixed with small diced carrots and green peas evenly spread throughout. On top, evenly spaced grilled pieces of chicken with a golden-brown char and slightly crispy edges sit atop the grain. Finely sliced green onions and whole peas are sprinkled across the top, adding spots of light and dark green color. The entire dish rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, though the texture will be slightly chewier and the cooking time for the rice may need to be adjusted if cooking from scratch.

How do I prevent fried rice from becoming mushy?

Using cold, preferably day-old rice helps keep the grains separate. Also, cook over high heat and avoid overcrowding the skillet to ensure the rice fries rather than steams.