Chef Mitchell preparing Quick Breakfast Fried Rice
👨‍🍳 Expert Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary School Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered this Quick Breakfast Fried Rice recipe during a trip to Asia, where breakfast is often a hearty affair. After perfecting it over the years, I ensured it captures all the delicious flavors and textures. It's a crowd-pleaser in my home, and I love how easy it is to throw together. Now, it's a staple in my breakfast rotation."

As a chef with over a decade of experience, I specialize in Asian cuisine and breakfast recipes. I have worked in various restaurants, honing my skills in creating authentic and flavorful dishes. My passion lies in making complex flavors accessible to home cooks.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
Delicious Quick Breakfast Fried Rice served on a plate

Why This Quick Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe Works

This Quick Breakfast Fried Rice recipe is special because it's incredibly versatile and can be made with whatever ingredients you have on hand. The combination of flavors from the soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying meal that energizes your day.

The technique used in this recipe ensures that each grain of rice is coated in flavor while remaining fluffy and not sticky. By cooking the ingredients in stages, we build layers of flavor that elevate this simple dish into something extraordinary.

💡 Professional Tip

For optimal flavor, use day-old rice that has been refrigerated. This helps to keep the grains separate and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy. If you don't have day-old rice, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool before using it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, you can make Quick Breakfast Fried Rice ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to help revive the moisture.

You can substitute cooked ham with other proteins such as diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a vegetarian option. You can also omit the protein altogether and add more vegetables to keep it light.

Quick Breakfast Fried Rice is done when all the ingredients are heated through, and the rice is slightly crispy on the bottom. The vegetables should be tender but still vibrant, and the flavors should be well combined.

Yes, you can freeze Quick Breakfast Fried Rice for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight freezer bags. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in a pan or microwave.

Quick Breakfast Fried Rice can be served on its own or paired with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad. You could also serve it with a side of soy sauce or chili sauce for added flavor.

Quick Breakfast Fried Rice lasts in the fridge for up to 4 days when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to cool it completely before refrigerating to maintain its freshness.

Absolutely! You can prepare the Quick Breakfast Fried Rice in advance and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat it when you're ready to serve, adding a little liquid if needed.

The best way to reheat Quick Breakfast Fried Rice is in a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or soy sauce to keep it from drying out and stir frequently until heated through.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Too Dry

Problem: If your fried rice is too dry, it can make for an unappetizing dish.

Solution: To remedy dry fried rice, add a little water or broth while reheating. This will help rehydrate the rice and enhance the flavor.

✅

Not Crispy Enough

Problem: If your fried rice isn't crispy, it may be due to overcrowding the pan.

Solution: To achieve the perfect crispy texture, cook the rice in smaller batches. Make sure the pan is hot enough before adding the rice to allow it to fry rather than steam.

✅

Overcooked

Problem: Overcooked fried rice can lead to mushy grains and loss of texture.

Prevention: Prevent overcooking by keeping a close eye on the cooking time and not leaving the rice on the heat for too long. Aim to stir frequently and taste as you go.

✅

Undercooked Center

Problem: An undercooked center in fried rice can lead to a harsh texture.

Recovery: If you find the center is undercooked, cover the pan with a lid for a few minutes. This will create steam and help cook the rice evenly.

✅

Burnt Exterior

Problem: A burnt exterior can ruin the flavor of your fried rice.

Prevention: To avoid a burnt exterior, ensure you are cooking on medium heat and stir frequently. Use a non-stick pan to help prevent sticking and burning.

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Flavor Balance

Too Sweet: If the dish is too sweet, add a splash of soy sauce or vinegar to balance the flavors.

Too Salty: If it's too salty, add more rice or a small amount of sugar to help neutralize the saltiness.

Bland: If your fried rice is bland, increase the seasoning with soy sauce, garlic, or ginger to enhance the flavor.

Fresh ingredients for Quick Breakfast Fried Rice

Essential Ingredients for Quick Breakfast Fried Rice

The key ingredients for this Quick Breakfast Fried Rice include cooked jasmine rice, protein sources like ham or chicken, and vibrant vegetables. Fresh garlic and green onions add aromatic flavors, while soy sauce and sesame oil provide depth and richness.

Quality is critical in this dish. Use day-old rice for the best texture, and opt for fresh vegetables to ensure a colorful and nutritious breakfast. The combination of these ingredients makes the dish not only delicious but also visually appealing.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Jasmine Rice: For the best results, use jasmine rice that has been cooked and cooled. This variety has a lovely aroma and a slightly sticky texture that works perfectly for fried rice.
  • Soy Sauce: Choose a good quality soy sauce for depth of flavor. Low-sodium options are great for controlling saltiness while still adding rich umami notes.
  • Vegetables: Feel free to mix and match your favorite vegetables in this recipe. Fresh, seasonal produce adds great flavor and nutrients while adding a pop of color to your dish.
Cooking process for Quick Breakfast Fried Rice

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

Cooking Quick Breakfast Fried Rice is straightforward yet rewarding. Start with prepping all the ingredients, ensuring everything is ready to go. This makes the cooking process efficient and enjoyable.

The key to achieving perfect fried rice is to cook the ingredients in stages, giving each component the attention it needs. This technique enhances the flavors and ensures that each bite is deliciously balanced.

Key Technique for Perfect Quick Breakfast Fried Rice

The most important technique for perfect fried rice is using day-old rice. This helps the grains stay separate and prevents them from becoming mushy when frying. Additionally, cooking at a high heat allows for a nice crispiness on the rice.

Quick Breakfast Fried Rice

Prep 15 min
Cook 45 min
Serves 6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
    For seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
    Adds flavor
  • 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
    For depth
  • 1 tablespoon chili sauce
    Optional for spice

For the Sauce

  • 3 cups cooked jasmine rice
    Cold and day-old is best
  • 1 cup diced cooked ham
    Protein source
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
    For color and nutrition
  • 4 large eggs
    For protein
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
    For frying
  • 2 green onions, sliced
    For garnish
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    Adds flavor
  • 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
    For crunch

Instructions

  1. Prepare Ingredients

    Gather all your ingredients and have them ready for cooking.

  2. Scramble Eggs

    In a large pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium heat. Beat the eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

  3. Cook Vegetables

    In the same pan, add another tablespoon of vegetable oil. Sauté garlic, onions, bell pepper, and the frozen peas and carrots until tender.

  4. Add Rice

    Add the cooked jasmine rice to the pan and stir well to combine with the vegetables.

  5. Season Fried Rice

    Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, oyster sauce, and chili sauce. Mix thoroughly.

  6. Incorporate Ham

    Add the diced ham and scrambled eggs back into the pan. Stir everything together until heated through.

  7. Add Green Onions

    Fold in the sliced green onions and season with salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Serve

    Serve hot, garnished with additional green onions if desired.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Storage Tips

To store, let the Quick Breakfast Fried Rice cool completely before placing it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for easy reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Quick Breakfast Fried Rice can be enjoyed on its own or alongside fresh fruit or a simple salad. For added flavor, serve with soy sauce, chili sauce, or a fried egg on top.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize this Quick Breakfast Fried Rice with different proteins like shrimp or tofu, or swap in seasonal vegetables. You can also add spices like curry powder or sriracha for a unique twist.