Quick and Easy One-Pan Fried Rice Recipe for Busy Weekdays

Leftover rice can often feel like a kitchen nuisance, but it doesn’t have to be. Instead of tossing it out, you can transform that cold, forgotten rice into a vibrant, satisfying meal in less than 20 minutes. This one-pan fried rice recipe is a perfect solution for busy weekdays when you want something quick, comforting, and packed with flavor. Plus, it uses whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a flexible and waste-free option.

One-pan fried rice with mixed vegetables and eggs, ready to serve

Why Fried Rice Works for Busy Days

Fried rice is a classic go-to for a reason. It’s fast, easy, and forgiving. The key is using leftover rice because fresh rice tends to be too soft and sticky for frying. Leftover rice has dried out a bit, which helps it fry up nicely without clumping.

This recipe takes advantage of simple ingredients you probably already have: onions, carrots, peas, zucchini, and scallions. You can swap in other veggies like bell peppers, corn, or mushrooms depending on what’s in your fridge. The eggs add protein and richness, while soy sauce brings a savory depth. A touch of butter and oil helps everything cook evenly and adds a subtle creaminess.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 2 cups leftover cooked white rice

• 1–2 teaspoons oil (vegetable or canola) plus 1 teaspoon butter

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 1–2 carrots, chopped

• 2–3 scallions, chopped (plus extra for garnish)

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

• 1 small zucchini, chopped into small pieces

• 2 eggs

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2–3 teaspoons soy sauce

• Sesame seeds for topping

  
  

These ingredients serve 2 to 3 people, making it perfect for a small family meal or leftovers for the next day.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat the pan: Warm the oil and butter in a large skillet over medium heat. The butter adds flavor and helps the veggies soften without sticking.

2. Cook the aromatics and veggies: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and scallions. Stir and cook until they start to soften, about 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Add peas and zucchini: Toss in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. Then add the zucchini along with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Continue cooking until the zucchini is tender but still has a slight bite.

4. Scramble the eggs: Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the empty space and scramble them gently until just set. Then mix the eggs with the vegetables.

5. Add rice and soy sauce: Add the leftover rice directly into the pan. Pour the soy sauce over the top and stir everything together. Cook for a few minutes until the rice is heated through and slightly crispy in places.

6. Garnish and serve: Sprinkle extra chopped scallions and sesame seeds on top. Serve immediately while hot.

   
   

Tips for the Best Fried Rice

• Use cold, leftover rice: Freshly cooked rice is too moist and will clump. Refrigerate rice overnight for the best texture.

• Prep all ingredients before cooking: Fried rice cooks fast, so have everything chopped and ready to go.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Use a large skillet or wok to give ingredients room to fry rather than steam.

• Customize your veggies: Use whatever you have—bell peppers, corn, green beans, or even leftover cooked meat can be added.

• Adjust soy sauce to taste: Start with less and add more if needed to avoid oversalting.

  
  

Why This Recipe Saves Time and Reduces Waste

This fried rice recipe is a great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables that might otherwise go bad. It’s a practical meal for anyone juggling a busy schedule who still wants a homemade, nourishing dish. Since it cooks in one pan, cleanup is quick, which means less time in the kitchen and more time for yourself.

Using simple pantry staples and frozen veggies means you don’t have to make a special trip to the store. The eggs add protein without extra prep, making this a balanced meal in minutes.

Final Thoughts

This one-pan fried rice recipe turns leftover rice into a delicious, colorful meal that fits perfectly into busy weekday routines. It’s flexible, quick, and satisfying, with plenty of room to customize based on what you have available. Next time you see that container of leftover rice in your fridge, remember this recipe and give it new life.