Breakfast Fried Rice

If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s both satisfying and quick to whip up, you’ve landed in the right place! This Breakfast Fried Rice is a delightful twist on your classic morning meals. It combines the comforting flavors of fried rice with the hearty goodness of scrambled eggs and crispy bacon. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends with family, this dish brings warmth and joy to your table.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily make it using leftover rice, making it a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying a delicious meal. Plus, it offers that satisfying savory flavor we all crave without the heaviness of greasy takeout!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in about 35 minutes, so it’s perfect for those busy mornings!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this tasty breakfast option—it’s hard not to love fried rice!
• Customizable: Feel free to switch out ingredients based on what you have at home; this recipe is all about flexibility.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, you can feel good about what you’re eating.
• Leftover Friendly: Use up that cold rice sitting in your fridge for a speedy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Breakfast Fried Rice, you’ll need a few simple, wholesome ingredients. They come together beautifully to bring out the best flavors in this dish.

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
• 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 adaptable it is! Here are some fun variations to keep things fresh:

• Swap the protein: Instead of bacon, try using turkey bacon or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the veggies: Toss in whatever frozen vegetables you have on hand—bell peppers or broccoli work great!
• Add some spice: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or sriracha when cooking.
• Make it cheesy: Stir in some shredded cheese just before serving for an extra creamy touch.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by lining a plate with paper towels and setting it aside. In a cold 12” skillet or wok, add the chopped bacon. This method allows the fat to render slowly as it heats up, making your bacon nice and crispy. Cook on medium heat for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once crisped to perfection, use a slotted spoon to transfer it to the prepared plate. The paper towels will absorb excess grease.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While your bacon cooks away, crack four large eggs into a bowl and season them with kosher salt and ground pepper. Lightly beat them with a fork until just combined. When your bacon is done cooking, drain most of the fat from your skillet but leave about two tablespoons behind for flavor. Add the eggs to the pan and let them cook for one to two minutes until they start setting around the edges. Gently scramble them until cooked through but still soft.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Now it’s time to ramp up those flavors! Increase heat to medium-high and add the butter until it melts and foams up. Toss in your diced onion and sauté for about five to six minutes until they’re translucent. Then add minced garlic—it only needs about one minute more for its fragrant aroma to fill your kitchen!

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Next, add that cold cooked rice straight into your skillet! Toss everything together well so that every grain of rice gets coated with those delicious onion and garlic flavors. Smooth out the mixture into an even layer in the pan and let it fry undisturbed for about four to five minutes. This step creates that lovely crispy texture we all adore.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour soy sauce over your rice mixture—this adds depth of flavor! Loosen any stuck bits from the bottom of the skillet while mixing in that soy sauce thoroughly. Add frozen peas, carrots, corn, and toasted sesame oil next; toss frequently until everything is warmed through.

Step 6: Finish Up

Finally, remove your skillet from heat and stir in that crispy bacon you set aside earlier along with scrambled eggs and sliced green onions. Give everything one last mix before serving hot!

Enjoy this scrumptious Breakfast Fried Rice right away—don’t forget an extra splash of soy sauce if you’d like! It’s sure to be a hit at any breakfast table!

Pro Tips for Making Breakfast Fried Rice

Making a delicious Breakfast Fried Rice is all about technique and timing, so here are some tips to help you master it!

• Use day-old rice: Leftover rice that’s been in the fridge for at least a day is less sticky and will fry up perfectly. This helps achieve that ideal texture for fried rice.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If you’re making a larger batch, consider using two pans. This ensures that each grain of rice gets that lovely char without steaming, giving you the perfect crispy finish.

• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add any leftover vegetables you have on hand like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. This not only enhances flavor but also adds nutritional value to your breakfast.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Soy sauce can vary in saltiness, so start with less and gradually add more as needed. This way, you control the flavor profile and avoid making it too salty.

• Finish with fresh herbs: Adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving brightens up the dish and adds a burst of freshness that complements the savory flavors.

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Serving Breakfast Fried Rice can be as creative as you want! Whether it’s a casual family brunch or a fancy gathering, this dish can impress anyone. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sliced red chili: A few slices scattered on top add a pop of color and provide an optional kick for those who enjoy some heat.
• Sesame seeds: Lightly toasted sesame seeds sprinkled over the top not only enhance the visual appeal but also contribute nutty flavors.
• Extra green onions: A generous handful of sliced green onions on top gives a vibrant freshness and an appealing crunch to every bite.

Side Dishes

• Fruit salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances out the savory flavors. Consider using fruits like pineapple, mango, and berries for color and sweetness.
• Miso soup: This comforting Japanese soup pairs well with fried rice, providing warmth and umami richness that complements your meal wonderfully.
• Steamed dumplings: These bite-sized goodies are perfect for dipping in soy sauce or chili oil, making them an excellent accompaniment to your main dish.
• Avocado toast: The creamy texture of avocado toast adds richness while keeping your meal light; plus, it’s super trendy!

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Breakfast Fried Rice will not only be satisfying but also visually appealing and enjoyable for everyone at your table! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Breakfast Fried Rice is not only a delightful meal but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for later, making busy mornings a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the fried rice to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Let the fried rice cool down fully.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• For reheating, place in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent sticking.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Breakfast Fried Rice!

Can I use other vegetables in Breakfast Fried Rice?

Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, or zucchini. Just make sure they’re chopped small enough to cook quickly.

How do I make my Breakfast Fried Rice healthier?

Consider using brown rice instead of white for added fiber and nutrients. You can also reduce the amount of oil used or add more vegetables to boost the nutrient content.

Can I prepare Breakfast Fried Rice in advance?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. You can store leftovers in the fridge or freeze portions for quick breakfasts later on.

What can I substitute for bacon in Breakfast Fried Rice?

If you’re looking for a substitute, try using turkey bacon or tempeh. Both options will add a nice flavor without using pork.

How can I customize my Breakfast Fried Rice?

You can customize this recipe by adding different proteins like chicken or tofu, changing up the sauces, or experimenting with spices to create your own unique version!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Breakfast Fried Rice as much as I do! It’s a fantastic way to start your day with something hearty yet satisfying. With its flexibility and ease of preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite at your breakfast table. Enjoy cooking and don’t forget to share your creations!