Name: Air Fryer Fried Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 cups day-old cooked white rice cold from the fridge; 2 tablespoons avocado oil or any neutral flavored oil; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 3 cloves garlic minced; 1 teaspoon ginger freshly minced; 1/4 teaspoon pepper; 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Just 15 minutes from start to finish makes it a weeknight hero.

Irresistible Flavor: A delightful mix of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil creates a taste you won’t forget.

Eye-Catching Appeal: Bright green peas and orange carrots bring color and fun to your plate.

Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a snack, side dish, or even breakfast—your call!

Diet-Friendly Options: Easily switch up ingredients for gluten-free or vegetarian versions.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 cups day-old cooked white rice: Using cold, day-old rice ensures each grain stays distinct, not mushy. Freshly cooked rice may not yield the same texture.

2 tablespoons avocado oil: A neutral oil is best to let the other flavors shine. Can substitute with canola or sunflower oil if necessary.

2 tablespoons soy sauce: Adds umami flavor. Use low-sodium soy sauce for a healthier option.

1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Deepens the overall taste, but you can omit it for vegetarian versions.

3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brings aromatic flavor and a warm essence to the dish.

1 teaspoon ginger, freshly minced: Adds a zingy warmth; pre-ground ginger can work in a pinch if you’re short on time.

1/4 teaspoon pepper: A touch of black pepper enhances the flavors without overwhelming.

1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots: These provide sweetness and texture. Fresh alternatives can be used, but will need longer cooking times.

2 large eggs: These add richness and protein. Scrambled into the rice, they create a satisfying bite.

1 teaspoon sesame oil: Just a drizzle enhances the nutty flavor profile in this dish.

How to Make Air Fryer Fried Rice

Prepare the Rice Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the avocado oil, soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Add the cold rice, tossing well with a spoon. Break apart any clumps until every grain is gleaming and fully coated in the sauce.

Air Fry the Rice: Spread the seasoned rice evenly onto an air fryer liner placed in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F for 8 minutes, resisting the urge to open or stir during this time.

Add the Veggies: Carefully remove the air fryer basket. Scatter the frozen peas and carrots atop the rice, gently tossing everything together. Don’t forget to scrape those crispy bits from the bottom—those crunchies are a delight! Spread the mixture back out into an even layer and air fry for another 4 minutes.

Cook the Eggs: Pull the basket out again. With a spatula, push the rice toward the edges to create a well in the center. Crack both eggs into this well and air fry for 3 minutes, or until the whites have set.

Combine and Serve: Break up the cooked eggs into the rice. Drizzle the entire mixture with sesame oil, tossing everything together until well incorporated and evenly distributed.

Final Touches: Remove the fried rice from the air fryer and serve it warm, garnished with scallions if desired.

Storing & Reheating

To keep your air fryer fried rice at room temperature, it’s best enjoyed immediately or within a couple of hours. For longer storage, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. If you’re looking to store it even longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, simply pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5 minutes or until heated through. Keep in mind that while the flavor may remain delicious, the texture can change slightly—adding a splash of water before reheating can help refresh it.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoiding mushiness: Ensure the rice is fully cooled before using; day-old rice is ideal.
For extra flavor, let the rice sit after adding the sauce. This allows the grains to absorb the flavors even more deeply.
If you prefer a crunchier texture, feel free to extend the cooking time for the initial frying. Just keep an eye on it!
Consider using leftover proteins like chicken or shrimp; simply toss them in during the last cooking phase for a heartier dish.
Meal prep friendly: Make a double batch and pack it for quick lunches!

The benefits of this air fryer fried rice are countless, pairing delightful flavor with easy preparation. It allows room for individuality whether you fancy adding different veggies, proteins, or seasonings. So don’t hesitate to mix and match—your creativity is the limit.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice can be used, but keep in mind it may require slightly longer cooking times in the air fryer due to its denser texture. Adjust cooking time accordingly until it feels fluffy.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover fried rice?

The air fryer is a fantastic option to refresh your fried rice, but if you don’t have one, you can quickly reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat while stirring to prevent sticking.

Can I make this air fryer fried rice vegan?

Definitely! Simply replace the eggs with scrambled tofu or omit them entirely, and make sure to use vegan oyster sauce or skip it altogether for a tasty plant-based dish.

What can I serve with air fryer fried rice?

This fried rice pairs well with a variety of proteins, from grilled chicken to shrimp or even tofu. You could also serve it alongside a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

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