Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast that feels like a treat, you’ve come to the right place! This Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful twist on your classic morning fare. It’s packed with flavor and comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends alike. Whether you’re using up some leftover rice or just craving something hearty, this dish has got your back.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can whip it up for a cozy family brunch or serve it as a fun breakfast-for-dinner option. The best part? It’s so easy to customize that everyone in the family will find something to enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Preparation takes only 10 minutes, and cooking is just 35 minutes! You’ll have a delicious meal ready before you know it.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the savory flavors and colorful veggies, making it a hit at breakfast tables.
• Customizable: Use whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand to make it your own.
• Satisfying: This dish is hearty enough to keep you full without feeling heavy—perfect for starting your day right!
• Leftover Friendly: A great way to use up leftover rice and vegetables, minimizing waste in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Breakfast Fried Rice. You probably have most of these in your pantry already!

For the Fried Rice

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Variations

One of the best things about Breakfast Fried Rice is how flexible it can be! You can easily tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: If you’re not keen on bacon, try tofu or chicken for a different flavor profile!
• Change up the veggies: Don’t have peas or carrots? Use bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach for a fresh twist.
• Add some heat: Spice things up by tossing in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of sriracha.
• Make it vegan: Skip the eggs and bacon and use plant-based alternatives like chickpeas for protein instead.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels. This will help drain excess fat later. Next, add your chopped bacon to a cold skillet. Heating it slowly allows the fat to render out nicely while ensuring that each piece gets perfectly crispy. Cook over medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until crisp. Once done, remove it from the skillet using a slotted spoon and let it drain on the paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon cooks, crack the eggs into a bowl and season them with salt and pepper. Lightly beat them with a fork until well mixed. This step is crucial because seasoning beforehand ensures every bite of egg is flavorful! Add some of that delicious bacon fat back into the pan (keeping about 2 tablespoons) and scramble those eggs until they are just set but still soft. Set them aside once done.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Increase your skillet’s heat to medium-high and toss in the butter until melted and foamy. Adding onions at this stage helps develop their sweetness as they cook down. Sauté them for about 5-6 minutes until translucent, then add minced garlic for an extra punch of flavor. Stir constantly until fragrant—this should only take about a minute!

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Now it’s time for that cold cooked rice! Toss it into the skillet with onions and garlic, stirring well to combine everything evenly. Flattening out the rice allows it to fry undisturbed for 4-5 minutes, which adds texture and depth of flavor as some grains get crispy.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Pour soy sauce over your fried rice and gently mix everything together using a wooden spoon. This helps incorporate that salty goodness throughout! Now add in frozen peas, carrots, corn, sesame oil, mixing frequently until everything is heated through. This step ensures all flavors blend beautifully!

Step 6: Finish Up

Remove from heat and stir in your crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions for that fresh crunch! Serve immediately with extra soy sauce on the side if desired.

And there you have it—a fantastic Breakfast Fried Rice that’s sure to become a favorite in your home! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Making the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice can be a breeze with just a few handy tips to ensure it’s delicious every time!

• Use day-old rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky and clump together. Day-old rice has dried out slightly, making it ideal for frying since it separates easily.

• Prep your ingredients beforehand: Have all your veggies and proteins chopped and ready before you start cooking. This will help you keep the cooking process quick and efficient, ensuring everything is perfectly cooked without any burning.

• Don’t crowd the pan: If you have a lot of ingredients, consider cooking in batches. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming rather than frying, which won’t give you that sought-after crispy texture.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Everyone’s preference for saltiness varies. Start with less soy sauce, then add more to taste as needed. This way, you can customize it to suit your palate and dietary needs.

• Add extra veggies: Feel free to toss in any additional vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers or spinach. They not only add flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your meal!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Serving Breakfast Fried Rice is all about making it look as delightful as it tastes! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adds a fresh flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy and rich, avocado complements the savory notes wonderfully.
• Sesame seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds gives a nice crunch and enhances the Asian flair.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A light fruit salad with seasonal fruits offers a refreshing contrast to the savory fried rice.
• Miso soup: This comforting soup adds warmth and is an excellent way to round out your breakfast.
• Cucumber salad: A crisp cucumber salad dressed lightly with vinegar provides a zesty side that pairs well with the fried rice.
• Steamed edamame: These protein-packed pods are perfect for snacking alongside your meal and are easy to prepare.

By incorporating these garnishes and side dishes, you’ll elevate your Breakfast Fried Rice into a feast that’s not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep. You can easily whip up a large batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Portion the fried rice into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen fried rice in the refrigerator overnight.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Alternatively, microwave in a covered bowl for about 2-3 minutes, stirring midway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe!

Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice without bacon?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with vegetarian alternatives like tempeh or simply omit it altogether for a lighter version. The dish will still be delicious and satisfying.

What type of rice is best for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Day-old cold cooked rice works best because it’s drier and less sticky. However, you can use freshly cooked rice if you let it cool down first.

Can I add other ingredients to Breakfast Fried Rice?

Yes! Feel free to customize your fried rice by adding your favorite veggies, tofu, or even cooked chicken. Just be sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.

How long does Breakfast Fried Rice last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Breakfast Fried Rice can last up to 4 days in the fridge without losing its flavor or texture.

Is Breakfast Fried Rice suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This recipe is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in portions for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s a versatile dish that packs flavor and satisfaction into every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh or reheated, I’m confident that this recipe will become a staple in your breakfast routine. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your results with friends and family!