Ingredients
- 4 cups cooked cold rice (preferably day-old)
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish
Ingredient Notes
Rice
Day-old jasmine rice or long-grain rice works best because it stays separate and fluffy during cooking.
Vegetables
Frozen mixed vegetables are convenient and require no chopping. Fresh vegetables can also be used.
Soy Sauce
Low-sodium soy sauce helps control the salt level while maintaining authentic flavor.
Sesame Oil
Adds a rich nutty aroma that gives fried rice its signature taste.
How to Make Air Fryer Fried Rice
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Break apart any clumps in the cold rice using your hands or a fork.
Place the rice in a large mixing bowl.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
Add:
- Mixed vegetables
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Vegetable oil
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Oyster sauce (if using)
Mix thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated.
Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes.
Lightly grease an air fryer-safe baking dish or foil pan.
Step 4: Cook the Rice
Spread the rice mixture evenly into the prepared dish.
Place it inside the air fryer basket.
Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8 minutes.
After 4 minutes, stir the rice to ensure even cooking.
Step 5: Add the Eggs
While the rice cooks, lightly beat the eggs in a small bowl.
After the initial cooking time, remove the rice dish carefully.
Pour the beaten eggs evenly over the rice and stir gently.
Return the dish to the air fryer.
Cook for another 5 to 7 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the eggs are fully cooked.
Step 6: Finish and Garnish
Remove the fried rice from the air fryer.
Add sliced green onions and sesame seeds.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve immediately while hot.
Cooking Intensity Guide
Prep Intensity: Low
Minimal chopping and simple mixing make preparation quick and easy.
Cooking Intensity: Low to Medium
The air fryer performs most of the work, requiring only occasional stirring.
Skill Level: Beginner
This recipe is ideal for beginner cooks and air fryer enthusiasts.
Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Rice
Use Cold Rice
Freshly cooked rice contains excess moisture and may become mushy.
Stir During Cooking
Mixing halfway through cooking helps distribute heat evenly.
Don’t Overcrowd
Use a shallow dish to allow proper airflow around the rice.
Add Protein
Cooked chicken, shrimp, steak, pork, or tofu can be added before air frying.
Adjust the Seasoning
Add more soy sauce for a stronger flavor or a dash of hot sauce for spice.
Delicious Variations
Chicken Fried Rice
Add 1 cup diced cooked chicken breast before air frying.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Mix in cooked shrimp during the final few minutes of cooking.
Vegetable Fried Rice
Increase the vegetables and omit the eggs for a lighter dish.
Spicy Fried Rice
Add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or crushed red pepper flakes.
Pineapple Fried Rice
Mix in pineapple chunks and cashews for a sweet and savory twist.
Serving Suggestions
Air Fryer Fried Rice pairs wonderfully with:
- Teriyaki chicken
- Orange chicken
- Grilled shrimp
- Beef stir fry
- Sweet and sour pork
- Egg rolls
- Spring rolls
- Asian cucumber salad
It can also be served as a complete meal on its own.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer
Freeze cooled fried rice for up to 2 months.
Reheating
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes or microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Fresh Rice?
Yes, but chilled rice delivers a much better texture.
What Type of Rice Works Best?
Jasmine rice, long-grain rice, and basmati rice all work well.
Can I Make It Vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit oyster sauce and use extra vegetables or tofu.
Can I Add Meat?
Yes. Fully cooked chicken, beef, pork, or shrimp can be added before cooking.
Why Is My Fried Rice Mushy?
Fresh rice often contains too much moisture. Using cold, day-old rice helps prevent this issue.
Nutrition Information
Serving Size: Approximately 1½ cups
Servings Per Recipe: 4
