Breakfast Fried Rice is a quick, comforting, and savory skillet meal made with fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, crisp vegetables, and simple seasonings. Perfect for busy mornings or relaxed brunches, this one-pan dish is filling, flexible, and ready in minutes. Whether you have leftover rice from dinner or simply want to whip up something delicious in a hurry, this recipe provides a nourishing start to your day.
Why You’ll Love This Breakfast Fried Rice
This Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe is not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. Here are a few reasons to love it:
- It’s a one-pan meal, making clean-up easy.
- You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand, from peas to bell peppers—making it a great way to reduce food waste.
- This dish is high in protein with the addition of eggs, making it a filling option.
- It caters to various dietary preferences, offering options for Vegetarian Breakfast Fried Rice or versions with meat.
- It’s perfect for meal prep; make a batch for the week.
- This Asian-Inspired Breakfast Rice is a delightful twist on traditional breakfast foods.
- It’s adaptable for all ages, making it a family-friendly choice.
Ingredients for Breakfast Fried Rice
Gather these items:
- 3 cups cooked rice, cold (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers, or corn)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken or turkey sausage, diced (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Spinach or kale
- Extra eggs
- Sesame oil (a few drops for flavor)
How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil or butter. Add eggs and scramble gently until just set. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Step 2: In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Cook vegetables for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender. Add sausage if using and cook until warmed through.
- Step 3: Add cold rice to the skillet. Spread it out and let cook undisturbed for 1 minute to develop light crispness. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Step 4: Add soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well. Return scrambled eggs to the pan and gently combine.
- Step 5: Stir in green onions and cook for 1 more minute. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.
Pro Tips for the Perfect Breakfast Fried Rice
Keep these in mind:
- Use day-old rice for the best texture; it prevents mushiness.
- Don’t overload the pan; cook in batches if necessary to keep the rice from steaming.
- Experiment with different vegetables and proteins to customize your Breakfast Rice Bowl.
- For an extra touch of flavor, drizzle a little sesame oil just before serving.
Best Ways to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice
Here are a few ideas to enjoy your dish:
- Top with a fried egg for a richer breakfast experience.
- Pair it with fresh avocado slices for healthy fat and creaminess.
- Serve alongside a light salad for a balanced meal.
How to Store and Reheat Breakfast Fried Rice
To store, place any leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until heated through. This dish is also perfect for Breakfast Fried Rice Meal Prep.
Frequently Asked Questions About Breakfast Fried Rice
What’s the secret to perfect Breakfast Fried Rice?
The secret lies in using cold, day-old rice. It helps achieve that delightful texture that makes fried rice so satisfying. Add fresh vegetables and proteins to enhance the flavor.
Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice ahead of time?
Yes! You can make it in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat before serving for a quick morning meal.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Breakfast Fried Rice?
Avoid using freshly cooked rice. Always use cold rice to prevent it from becoming mushy. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even frying.
Variations of Breakfast Fried Rice You Can Try
Here are some tasty variations:
- Breakfast Fried Rice with Bacon: Add crispy bacon for a savory flavor boost.
- Vegetarian Breakfast Fried Rice: Omit meat and load up on veggies for a healthy twist.
- Spicy Breakfast Stir-Fried Rice: Add chili flakes or sriracha for heat.
- Breakfast Fried Rice with Tofu: Substitute tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian option.

For more delicious breakfast ideas, check out our breakfast category for inspiration!
For additional tips on meal prep, consider visiting this page for more recipes that can be made ahead of time.
Finally, if you’re looking for more information on the nutritional benefits of rice, check out this Healthline article for a detailed overview.
Print
Quick and Easy Breakfast Fried Rice for Busy Mornings
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Breakfast Fried Rice is a quick, comforting, and savory skillet meal made with fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, crisp vegetables, and simple seasonings. Perfect for busy mornings or relaxed brunches.
Ingredients
- 3 cups cooked rice, cold (preferably day-old)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers, or corn)
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken or turkey sausage, diced (optional)
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Spinach or kale
- Extra eggs
- Sesame oil (a few drops for flavor)
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil or butter. Add eggs and scramble gently until just set. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed. Cook vegetables for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender. Add sausage if using and cook until warmed through.
- Add cold rice to the skillet. Spread it out and let cook undisturbed for 1 minute to develop light crispness. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes.
- Add soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper. Stir well. Return scrambled eggs to the pan and gently combine.
- Stir in green onions and cook for 1 more minute. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot.
Notes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 200mg
Keywords: Breakfast Fried Rice