Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying breakfast, this Breakfast Fried Rice is the answer! It’s a delightful dish that hits all the right notes—savory, smoky, and oh-so-comforting. Whether you’re rushing out the door on a busy weekday or enjoying a leisurely weekend brunch with family, this recipe has got you covered. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and can be customized to fit your taste!

This Breakfast Fried Rice has become a favorite in my home because it combines simple ingredients with big flavors. It’s filling without being heavy, making it perfect for any occasion. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip this up before your morning coffee kicks in!
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The colorful veggies and tasty eggs make it appealing for all ages.
• Versatile: You can easily swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand—perfect for using up leftovers!
• Deliciously Satisfying: The combination of savory flavors will leave you feeling satisfied and ready to tackle the day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Breakfast Fried Rice, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find. Here’s what you’ll gather:

For the Base

• 6 slices bacon (chopped)
• 4 large eggs
• ¼ tsp kosher salt
• ¼ tsp ground pepper
• 2 tbsp butter

For the Flavor

• 1 medium white onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 3 c cold cooked rice
• 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 Breakfast Fried Rice recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients based on what you have or prefer.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon or tofu for a plant-based option.
• Add extra veggies: Bell peppers, broccoli, or spinach can add more nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: A dash of chili sauce or sriracha can give your fried rice a spicy kick.
• Make it cheesy: Toss in some shredded cheese at the end for an indulgent twist!

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels—this will help drain excess grease later. Add chopped bacon to a cold skillet or wok and heat over medium heat. Cooking the bacon slowly allows the fat to render out fully, resulting in crisp pieces that add incredible flavor.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon cooks until it’s lovely and crispy, crack those eggs into a bowl. Season them lightly with salt and pepper before giving them a gentle whisk with a fork. This step ensures fluffy scrambled eggs that complement your fried rice perfectly.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once the bacon is done, remove it from the skillet but keep some fat in there for flavor! Add butter next; when it melts and foams, toss in diced onions. Sauté until they become translucent—this brings out their natural sweetness. Then add minced garlic for an aromatic punch!

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Now it’s time for that cold cooked rice! Toss it into your skillet with onions and garlic until everything is well combined. Spread it evenly across the pan and let it fry undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes. This helps create that delicious crispy texture we love in fried rice.

Step 5: Add Sauce and Veggies

Pour soy sauce over your rice mixture, loosening any bits stuck to the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon—this adds great flavor! Then stir in those colorful frozen veggies along with sesame oil until everything is heated through.

Step 6: Combine Everything & Serve!

Finally, remove your skillet from heat and gently fold in those crispy bacon pieces, fluffy scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. Serve immediately while it’s hot! A splash more soy sauce on top enhances every bite.

And there you have it—a comforting bowl of Breakfast Fried Rice that’s easy to make and hard to resist! Enjoy every bite as you savor this delightful dish.

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Making Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful journey, and with these tips, you’ll elevate your dish to perfection!

• Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too sticky and soft. Day-old rice has dried out slightly and will fry better, giving you that desirable texture.
• Don’t Rush the Bacon: Take your time to cook the bacon until it’s perfectly crispy. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds a satisfying crunch to your fried rice.
• High Heat is Key: Cooking on high heat helps to achieve that slight char on the rice, which adds depth of flavor. Just keep stirring to prevent burning!
• Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to swap in any veggies you have on hand! Bell peppers, broccoli, or even spinach can make fantastic additions while boosting nutrition.
• Finish with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some freshly chopped cilantro or parsley just before serving for an extra pop of flavor and color.

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Breakfast Fried Rice is not just a meal; it’s an experience that you can enhance with some thoughtful presentation!

Garnishes

• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add richness and a touch of elegance that perfectly complements the savory flavors.
• Sesame Seeds: A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds brings a nutty crunch and visual appeal, making your dish look restaurant-worthy.

Side Dishes

• Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a sweet contrast to the savory fried rice, cleansing your palate between bites.
• Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber slices tossed in a light vinegar dressing offer a cool and crunchy side that pairs beautifully with warm fried rice.
• Miso Soup: This light and comforting broth is a lovely addition that complements the flavors of the fried rice without overshadowing it.
• Steamed Dumplings: These flavorful little pockets can be filled with vegetables or chicken, making them a delightful side option that rounds out your breakfast feast.

Enjoy creating this delicious Breakfast Fried Rice, and remember—it’s all about infusing your own personality into every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can cook a big batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat your fried rice to keep it fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover fried rice in an airtight container.
• Place the container in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to cool the rice completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• For long-term storage, you can freeze the fried rice.
• Portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space for expansion.
• Label each bag with the date, and use within 2-3 months for best flavor.

Reheating

• To reheat from the fridge, simply warm it up in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• If reheating from frozen, you can microwave it directly or allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge before warming on the stove.
• Add a splash of soy sauce or a bit of water to help steam and revive the rice during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this easy recipe!

Can I use brown rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Brown rice will add extra fiber and nutrients, making your Breakfast Fried Rice even healthier.

What can I add to my Breakfast Fried Rice?

Feel free to customize your Breakfast Fried Rice with additional veggies like bell peppers or broccoli, or even swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or plant-based alternatives.

How do I make Breakfast Fried Rice without bacon?

You can replace bacon with plant-based bacon or simply omit it. Adding extra veggies or some smoked paprika can give great flavor without animal products.

Can I prepare Breakfast Fried Rice ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prep. You can make a large batch at once and store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this savory Breakfast Fried Rice! It’s not just a quick meal; it’s a delightful way to start your day filled with flavors that satisfy. Whether you’re prepping for busy mornings or just want something comforting on your plate, this recipe has got you covered. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to make it your own—happy cooking!