Breakfast Fried Rice

Savory Breakfast Fried Rice is an easy and delicious way to start your day. This Breakfast Fried Rice recipe combines leftover rice with eggs, vegetables, and a touch of soy sauce for a satisfying meal that works for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy mornings or a laid-back weekend brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of savory flavors creates a delicious dish that will keep you coming back for more.
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or swap out the proteins based on what you have in your fridge.
• Use of Leftovers: Transform leftover rice into a delightful meal, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor.
• Easy Cleanup: One skillet is all you need! This means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. These will help streamline your preparation and ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet or wok
• Slotted spoon
• Rubber spatula
• Wooden spoon
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet or wok: A good skillet allows even cooking while providing enough space for frying rice without overcrowding.
• Rubber spatula: Ideal for scrambling eggs and mixing rice without damaging the grains.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for loosening rice from the bottom of the skillet, ensuring everything gets combined nicely.

Ingredients

For the Base

• 6 slices chicken (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Aromatics

• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Rice Mixture

• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

For the Veggies

• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients and tools before starting. This will make the cooking process smooth and efficient.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Line a plate with paper towels and set it aside.
• Add chicken to a cold 12” skillet or wok. Heat over medium heat.
• Cook until crispy, about 10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked chicken to the prepared plate.

Step 3: Scramble the Eggs

• In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs. Season with salt and pepper.
• Lightly beat with a fork.
• Drain all but 2 tablespoons of fat from the skillet. Add eggs, swirling to coat the pan’s bottom.
• Cook for 1-2 minutes until edges are set; scramble gently. Repeat until eggs are fully scrambled.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics

• Increase heat to medium-high. Add butter until melted.
• Toss in diced onion; sauté until translucent (5-6 minutes).
• Add minced garlic; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).

Step 5: Fry the Rice

• Add cold cooked rice to the skillet; combine well with onions and garlic.
• Flatten mixture into an even layer; fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes.

Step 6: Combine Everything Together

• Pour soy sauce over rice mixture; loosen rice from skillet’s bottom with a wooden spoon.
• Stir in frozen peas, carrots, corn, and sesame oil. Toss frequently until veggies are warmed through.

Step 7: Final Touches

• Remove skillet from heat. Stir in cooked chicken, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions.
• Serve immediately with additional soy sauce if desired.

Enjoy your flavorful Breakfast Fried Rice, perfect for any time of day!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Breakfast Fried Rice is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Pairing it with the right sides or garnishes can elevate the meal and make it even more enjoyable.

With Fresh Herbs

• Cilantro – Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for a burst of freshness.
• Chives – Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

With Additional Proteins

• Grilled Chicken – Serve sliced grilled chicken on the side for extra protein.
• Tofu Scramble – For a vegetarian option, add a tofu scramble seasoned with turmeric for color.

In a Wrap

• Lettuce Wraps – Spoon the fried rice into large lettuce leaves for a crunchy, low-carb option.
• Tortilla Wraps – Use flour tortillas to wrap the fried rice for an easy handheld meal.

With Spicy Sauce

• Sriracha Drizzle – Drizzle Sriracha over your serving for added heat.
• Sweet Chili Sauce – Pair with sweet chili sauce for a sweet and spicy kick.

How to Perfect Breakfast Fried Rice

Creating the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice requires attention to detail and technique. Follow these tips to achieve fried rice that’s flavorful and satisfying.

• Use Cold Rice – Cold, day-old rice works best as it prevents clumping and ensures even frying.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Fry in batches if necessary to maintain high heat and achieve that crispy texture.
• Season Gradually – Start with less soy sauce; you can always add more later for taste without overpowering the dish.
• Add Vegetables Last – Incorporate frozen vegetables towards the end of cooking to keep them vibrant and prevent mushiness.

Best Side Dishes for Breakfast Fried Rice

Serving side dishes alongside your Breakfast Fried Rice can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrition and color while being easy to prepare.
2. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad brings brightness and sweetness that balances the savory rice.
3. Egg Drop Soup – A warm bowl of egg drop soup complements the flavors of fried rice beautifully.
4. Asian Slaw – A crunchy slaw made of cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing adds texture and flavor contrast.
5. Spring Rolls – Serve crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or shrimp as an appetizer alongside.
6. Edamame Beans – Lightly salted edamame makes for an easy, healthy snack that pairs well with this dish.
7. Miso Soup – A comforting bowl of miso soup enhances your meal with umami richness.
8. Cucumber Salad – A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in rice vinegar is light and adds a nice crunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Breakfast Fried Rice, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not using cold rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist, leading to mushy fried rice. Always use cold, day-old rice for the best texture.
• Overcooking the eggs: Scrambled eggs can become rubbery if overcooked. Scramble them gently and remove them from heat while they’re still slightly runny.
• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season at each step can result in bland fried rice. Season the rice and vegetables as you cook for maximum flavor.
• Crowding the pan: Overcrowding can cause steaming instead of frying. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking and browning.
• Using low-quality soy sauce: Cheap soy sauce can affect the dish’s overall taste. Use a good quality soy sauce for better flavor.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Breakfast Fried Rice in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Breakfast Fried Rice

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Breakfast Fried Rice

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), spread fried rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and stir-fry until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Breakfast Fried Rice.

Can I use brown rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Yes! Brown rice can be used instead of white rice. It will give a nuttier flavor and additional nutrients.

What vegetables work best in Breakfast Fried Rice?

Frozen peas and carrots are great options, but feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or any vegetables you enjoy.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! Breakfast Fried Rice stores and reheats well, making it perfect for meal prep throughout the week.

How can I customize my Breakfast Fried Rice?

You can add different proteins like chicken or turkey, or swap out vegetables based on your preferences.

What is the best way to serve Breakfast Fried Rice?

Serve it hot as is or with extra soy sauce on the side. It pairs well with sliced green onions for added freshness!

Final Thoughts

Breakfast Fried Rice is not only quick and easy but also highly customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you choose chicken or veggies, this dish offers satisfying flavors that everyone will love. Give it a try and make it your own!