Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast that comes together in a flash, you’ll love this Breakfast Fried Rice! This dish is a delightful twist on traditional fried rice, packed with flavors that will make your mornings feel special. It’s perfect for busy weekdays or even leisurely weekends when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something delicious without the fuss.

What makes this recipe so special is its versatility. You can whip it up using leftover rice and whatever veggies you have on hand, making it a fantastic way to use up what’s in your fridge. Plus, it’s loaded with comforting flavors that will satisfy anyone at the breakfast table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: This Breakfast Fried Rice comes together in just about 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy mornings.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the savory flavors and colorful veggies, making it a hit for everyone.
• Customizable: Use leftover rice and any vegetables you have on hand—this dish can easily adapt to your pantry!
• Deliciously satisfying: With its smoky flavor and hearty ingredients, this dish feels indulgent but won’t weigh you down.
• Great for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time, and you’ll have breakfast ready to go all week long!

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Breakfast Fried Rice, you’ll need simple, wholesome ingredients that pack a flavorful punch. Here’s what we’ll use:

For the 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

For Flavor

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tsp toasted sesame oil

For the Veggies

• 1 c frozen peas and carrots
• ½ cup frozen corn
• 4 green onions (sliced)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try diced chicken or tofu for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, broccoli, or baby spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some sriracha or chili flakes while cooking.
• Go vegetarian: Skip the bacon altogether and add more vegetables or even chickpeas for protein.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels to drain the cooked bacon. Add your chopped bacon to a cold skillet or wok over medium heat. Cooking it slowly allows the fat to render out nicely. Stir occasionally until it’s crispy, which should take about 10 minutes. Once done, transfer the bacon to your prepared plate to drain off excess fat.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon is cooking, crack four large eggs into a bowl. Season them with salt and pepper before giving them a light beat with a fork. This step adds flavor right from the start! Once the bacon is out of the pan, drain most of the fat but leave about two tablespoons in there. Pour in those beaten eggs and scramble them gently until they’re cooked through but still soft.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Now it’s time to bring out some flavor! Increase the heat to medium-high and add butter until it melts and foams. Toss in your diced onion; sautéing until translucent takes about 5-6 minutes. Next up is garlic—add that fragrant goodness in for about one minute. Sautéing these aromatics builds a wonderful base for your fried rice!

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Add your cold cooked rice directly into the skillet with those lovely onions and garlic. Toss everything together until well combined. Then smooth out your rice mixture into an even layer in the skillet—this helps it fry nicely without sticking. Let it cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes so it can get that beautiful golden color.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Veggies

Drizzle soy sauce over your fried rice, loosening it from the bottom of the skillet as you stir—it brings all those flavors together! Toss in frozen peas, carrots, corn, and toasted sesame oil next. Keep stirring until everything is warmed through; this step ensures each bite is packed with deliciousness.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Finally, take your skillet off the heat and stir back in that crispy bacon you set aside along with scrambled eggs and fresh green onions. This is where everything comes together! Serve immediately while hot with extra soy sauce on hand for drizzling if desired.

And there you have it—a delightful Breakfast Fried Rice that’s sure to brighten up any morning! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Making the perfect Breakfast Fried Rice is all about technique and timing, so here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out incredible every time!

• Use cold, day-old rice – Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky, making it hard to fry properly. Day-old rice has dried a bit, giving you that ideal texture for frying.
• Don’t rush the bacon – Letting the bacon cook slowly allows the fat to render fully, which adds savory depth to your dish. Crispy bacon also provides a nice crunch that complements the soft rice and eggs.
• Adjust soy sauce to taste – Everyone has their own preferences when it comes to saltiness, so start with a little soy sauce and add more as needed. This way, you can control the flavor without overwhelming the dish.
• Keep your veggies colorful – Using a mix of frozen peas, carrots, and corn not only adds vibrant colors but also different textures. It makes your breakfast fried rice visually appealing and nutritious!
• Finish with fresh green onions – Adding sliced green onions right before serving enhances the freshness of the dish. They provide a crisp bite that perfectly balances the rich flavors from the bacon and eggs.

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Presentation can elevate any meal, and Breakfast Fried Rice is no exception! Here are some creative ideas for serving this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Sesame seeds – Toasted sesame seeds sprinkle on top not only add a nutty flavor but also give a lovely crunch.
• Chili flakes or sauce – For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha can create an exciting flavor contrast.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad – A light and refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances out the savory flavors of the fried rice.
• Miso soup – This warm and soothing soup pairs beautifully with fried rice, providing umami richness that complements your main dish.
• Cucumber salad – A simple cucumber salad dressed in vinegar or sesame oil offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the warm breakfast fried rice.
• Steamed broccoli or bok choy – Lightly steamed greens add vibrant color and nutrients while complementing the hearty nature of fried rice.

Enjoy serving up this delightful Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s sure to become a favorite in your breakfast rotation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice recipe is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can make a big batch and store it in your fridge or freezer for quick, satisfying meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the fried rice completely before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag, ensuring as much air as possible is removed.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply microwave in a covered dish for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• For frozen fried rice, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might help you make the most of this recipe!

Can I use other proteins instead of bacon in Breakfast Fried Rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute bacon with turkey bacon, beef bacon, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Breakfast Fried Rice ahead of time?

You can prepare this Breakfast Fried Rice ahead by following the make-ahead tips above. It stores beautifully and makes for easy meals throughout the week!

What vegetables can I add to my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Feel free to get creative! Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas work wonderfully. Just ensure they are cooked through before adding them to your rice.

Can I customize the seasoning in my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Yes! Adjust the soy sauce and sesame oil based on your taste preferences. You can also add spices like ginger or chili flakes for extra flavor!

Is Breakfast Fried Rice suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! This recipe is excellent for meal prepping as it holds up well in both the fridge and freezer, making it a convenient option for busy days.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Breakfast Fried Rice recipe as delightful as I do! It’s a wonderful way to kickstart your day with something hearty yet light. Enjoy making it your own by adding your favorite veggies or proteins. I can’t wait for you to try it—happy cooking!