Quick and Easy Last-Minute Fried Rice

Dear visitor, if you're in a hurry and looking for a quick, delicious, and easy meal, this last-minute fried rice recipe is just what you need. This versatile dish is perfect when you want to whip up a flavorful and satisfying meal with the ingredients you already have on hand.

Ingredients

White rice Frozen vegetables (any variety you like) Garlic Sesame or wok oil Chicken breast or thighs (optional) Eggs Butter! Yes, butter!

Steps to Make Quick Fried Rice

Here’s how you can make this last-minute fried rice with ease and in minimal time:

1. Use Leftover Rice

The key to making this dish quickly is using leftover cooked rice. If you’ve cooked extra rice at a previous meal, keep it in a container in the fridge. Cold leftover rice is better for frying as it has less moisture and will not stick together as easily.

2. Soak in Butter for Fluffiness

Before cooking, coat the rice with some softened butter. This simple trick ensures the rice is fluffy and separate, rather than clumpy or soggy. Let the rice sit for a few minutes while you prepare the rest of the ingredients.

3. Brown the Chicken (Optional)

If using chicken, chop it into small pieces and brown it in a bit of sesame or wok oil. This adds that extra umami flavor to your dish. If you’re not eating meat, you can skip this step and skip directly to the vegetables.

4. Sauté the Garlic and Vegetables

Add some chopped garlic to the same pan with the chicken (if using). Then, add your favorite frozen vegetables. If you want to boost the nutrition, you can use cauliflower rice as a replacement for white rice in a 1:1 ratio. Cook until vegetables are heated through and slightly browned.

5. Fry the Eggs

Mix a couple of beaten eggs and pour them into the pan with the other ingredients. Cook the eggs slightly and stir them into the vegetables and chicken (if using). This will infuse the eggs with the flavors of the vegetables and rice.

6. Add Rice and Sauce

When the eggs are almost done, add the leftover rice along with your chosen soy sauce (gluten-free tamari for those who need to avoid gluten). Stir everything together gently to ensure even distribution and warmth.

7. Serve and Enjoy

Serve your delicious last-minute fried rice hot, garnished with a bit of sesame seeds (optional) for that final touch of flavor and texture. Enjoy your quick, satisfying meal!

Tips for Making Fried Rice

No Chicken? No Problem! This recipe is versatile; you can make it with chopped shrimp, leftover steak, shredded pork, smoked rib meat, or even with kielbasa. Or simply go meatless by doubling up on the vegetables. Pump Up the Veggies! For added nutrition, replace some of the white rice with cauliflower rice in a 1:1 ratio. Add it to the frozen vegetables for a nutritional boost. Gluten-Free Option For those who need to follow a gluten-free diet, use gluten-free tamari instead of traditional soy sauce. My favorite brand is San-J, and I prefer their low-sodium variety.

Conclusion

With this simple guide, you can create a last-minute fried rice that's not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious. Whether you’re a regular cook or someone who enjoys simple but flavorful meals, this recipe is for you. So the next time you’re in a rush, just reach for a bag of frozen vegetables and a container of leftover rice, and you’re good to go. Happy cooking!