Name: Deliciously Quick Air Fryer Fried Rice in Just 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Cooked White Rice (Preferably leftover rice); 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil (Canola or sesame oil); 1 cup Carrots (Diced small); 1 cup Green Peas (Frozen, no need to thaw); 1 medium Onion (Chopped); 2 cloves Garlic (Minced); 2 large Eggs (Beaten); 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce (Low-sodium recommended); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Chopped for garnish)

The sizzle of the air fryer fills the kitchen as I toss in yesterday’s leftover rice, a true kitchen magician’s delight. This Air Fryer Fried Rice is my go-to when I crave comfort food that comes together in just 20 minutes. Not only is it a fantastic way to transform those leftovers into a vibrant meal, but it also invites endless customization with your favorite veggies and proteins. With fluffy grains and a hint of soy sauce, this dish fits perfectly into busy weeknights or serves as an impressive side at dinner parties. Who knew that creating something so delicious could feel this effortless? Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s dive into this quick and satisfying recipe!

Why is Air Fryer Fried Rice amazing?

Speedy Preparation: In just 20 minutes, you can have a delightful dish on the table, perfect for busy nights or sudden dinner guests.

Leftover Magic: Transform your leftover rice into something exciting. It’s a no-waste approach that feels indulgent!

Flavorful Elements: With fresh veggies, garlic, and soy sauce, each bite is bursting with savory goodness, making it a satisfying comfort meal.

Versatile Dish: Add your favorite proteins or additional vegetables, such as bell peppers or shrimp, for a customized take that your whole family will love. Just like with our Corn Chicken Rice or Sticky Sweet Fryer, you are free to be creative!

Crispy Perfection: The air fryer gives this dish a light crispy texture that is a delightful departure from traditional frying methods.

This Air Fryer Fried Rice is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, blending simplicity with robust flavors!

Air Fryer Fried Rice Ingredients

• Get ready to whip up this delightful dish!

For the Base

Cooked White Rice – Using leftover rice is preferable as it fries better than freshly cooked rice.
Vegetable Oil – Canola or sesame oil works well, adding flavor and aiding in crisping the rice.

For the Veggies

Carrots – Dice them small for quicker cooking and added color.
Green Peas – Frozen peas can be added directly without thawing, saving time.
Onion – Chopped and sautéed until translucent to enhance the dish’s depth.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic is recommended; adjust the amount to taste for aromatic goodness.

For the Protein

Eggs – Scramble before mixing in with other ingredients for richness and protein.

For the Flavor

Soy Sauce – Opt for low-sodium varieties to control saltiness and add that signature umami flavor.
Green Onions – Chopped for garnish and flavor, offering freshness and visual appeal.

Elevate your meals with this amazing Air Fryer Fried Rice that invites delicious possibilities!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Irresistible 20-Minute Air Fryer Fried Rice

Step 1: Preheat the Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes. This crucial step ensures that your Air Fryer Fried Rice cooks evenly and achieves that delightful crispy texture. While it warms up, gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

Step 2: Beat the Eggs
In a medium bowl, crack and beat the eggs until well combined. Set this bowl aside for now, as you’ll add the eggs to the rice mixture later. This step ensures the eggs are ready to scramble effortlessly when the time comes, adding both richness and protein to your fried rice.

Step 3: Sauté Onions and Garlic
In a separate bowl or a non-stick skillet, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes. You want them to become fragrant and translucent, releasing their aromatic goodness. This fragrant base adds depth to the overall flavor of your Air Fryer Fried Rice.

Step 4: Cook the Veggies
Next, add the diced carrots and frozen peas to the sautéed mixture. Continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes or until the carrots are tender. This step infuses the veggies with the delicious flavors from the onions and garlic, making your fried rice even more vibrant and tasty.

Step 5: Mix in Rice and Soy Sauce
Stir in the cold cooked rice along with the soy sauce, using a spatula to mix everything thoroughly for about 3-4 minutes. Aim to separate any clumps of rice as it heats up, letting the soy sauce coat every grain. The rice should be heated through and slightly crispy at the edges for the perfect bite.

Step 6: Scramble the Eggs
Create a small space in the center of the rice mixture and pour in the beaten eggs. Stir gently, allowing the eggs to scramble and mix into the rice for about 2-3 minutes. This step integrates the eggs nicely, creating a silky and flavorful addition to your Air Fryer Fried Rice.

Step 7: Combine All Ingredients
Once the eggs are cooked through, mix everything together until well combined and heated thoroughly, about 2 minutes. Keep an eye on the consistency, ensuring that your Air Fryer Fried Rice remains fluffy and doesn’t become mushy. A light stir will keep the integrity of your dish.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove your Air Fryer Fried Rice from the fryer and transfer it to a serving bowl. Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh finish and extra flavor. Serving it warm will ensure everyone can enjoy a comforting dish that’s utterly irresistible and perfect for any meal!

How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer Fried Rice

Fridge: Store leftover Air Fryer Fried Rice in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the fried rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Portion it out for easy defrosting later!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes. This will help regain the crispy texture that defines this dish.

Packing Tips: If meal prepping, consider separating veggies and proteins before freezing to keep each ingredient’s texture intact.

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Fried Rice bowls are fantastic for meal prep, making weekday cooking a breeze! You can prepare the chopped vegetables (carrots, onions, and peas) up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain crispness. Additionally, you can beat the eggs and keep them stored separately for optimal freshness. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat both the vegetable mix and cooked rice in the air fryer for about 5-7 minutes, then follow the remaining steps to scramble in the eggs and combine everything. This way, you’ll enjoy a deliciously quick Air Fryer Fried Rice with minimal effort, just as delightful as when freshly made!

What to Serve with Irresistible 20-Minute Air Fryer Fried Rice

Nothing complements your quick and comforting fried rice quite like these delightful side dishes and beverages!

Crispy Spring Rolls: These savory bites provide a crunchy contrast to the fluffy rice while adding an extra flavor punch, perfect for sharing.
Garlic Green Beans: Sautéed with a hint of soy sauce, these tender green beans add vibrant color and freshness, balancing out the dish beautifully.
Honey Soy Chicken Skewers: The sweet and savory flavors of grilled chicken drizzled with honey soy sauce pair perfectly, elevating the meal to a delightful dinner feast.
Sesame Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad’s crunch gives a cool reprieve from the rice, enhancing its flavor while adding a burst of freshness.
Egg Drop Soup: A warm, comforting bowl filled with silky egg ribbons complements the fried rice beautifully and creates a harmonious alignment of flavors.
Steamed Dumplings: These little pockets of goodness can be filled with any protein you love. They add heartiness and an extra layer of texture to your meal.
Chilled Szechuan Noodles: Spicy and tangy, these noodles add a delightful kick, inviting your taste buds on a flavorful journey when paired with the savory fried rice.
Fruity Iced Tea: A refreshing drink such as a peach or lemon iced tea brings a sweet counterbalance to the savory elements of your dish and quenches your thirst perfectly.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream topped with a drizzle of sweet soy sauce or caramel can provide a fun and unexpected dessert complementing the main course.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Fried Rice

Rice Texture: Use completely cooled leftover rice for the best results. Freshly cooked rice contains moisture that can lead to mushiness in your Air Fryer Fried Rice.
Oil Choice: A light drizzle of vegetable oil ensures crispiness and flavor. Avoid using too much oil, as it can make the dish greasy and heavy.
Veggie Variations: Feel free to mix in different vegetables based on what’s in your fridge. Bell peppers, broccoli, or even corn can add color and nutrition to your meal.
Protein Additions: Incorporate proteins like shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a more filling dish. Just make sure to cook any raw proteins before mixing them into the rice.
Seasoning Savvy: Adjust the soy sauce based on your taste preference. Start with less and add more as needed to avoid overpowering the dish.
Garnishing Touch: Don’t skip the chopped green onions for the garnish! They add a fresh crunch and elevate the entire flavor profile of your Air Fryer Fried Rice.

Air Fryer Fried Rice Variations

Feel free to get creative with this Air Fryer Fried Rice recipe and make it uniquely yours!

Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers or broccoli for extra crunch and nutrition; their vibrant colors will brighten your dish!
Gluten-Free Swap: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to cater to gluten-free needs while keeping all the wonderful umami flavors.
Protein Punch: Introduce diced chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it a heartier meal; just ensure any meat is cooked before adding.
Spicy Flair: Stir in sriracha or red pepper flakes to elevate the heat level; this adds a delightful kick that spice lovers will adore!
Dairy-Free Option: Replace scrambled eggs with chickpea flour for a plant-based alternative; it adds a new texture while keeping things healthy.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil before serving for a fragrant finish that adds depth to every bite.
Coconut Twist: Incorporate a splash of coconut milk during cooking for a creamy, tropical flavor; it transforms this dish into a unique treat.
Sweetness Element: Add diced pineapple for a sweet contrast; this delicious fruit pairs beautifully with the savory elements of fried rice.

With these variations, your Air Fryer Fried Rice can be endlessly customizable! Enjoy experimenting just like with our French Onion Casserole or make it a savory standalone dish alongside our Southern Fried Chicken.

Air Fryer Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of rice works best for Air Fryer Fried Rice?
Absolutely! Using leftover cooked white rice is key for this recipe, as it has a firmer texture that prevents mushiness when fried. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook and cool your rice at least an hour beforehand. Spread it out on a baking sheet to cool quickly, then store it in the fridge to chill before using.

How should I store Air Fryer Fried Rice leftovers?
Very good question! Store any leftover Air Fryer Fried Rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s important to let the fried rice cool completely before sealing it to lock in freshness. Reheating is best done in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes to retain that crispy texture.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Fried Rice?
Absolutely! If you’d like to freeze the Fried Rice, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and enjoy it within 2 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then portion it out for easier thawing later. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the air fryer for 7-10 minutes at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and crispy.

What if my Air Fryer Fried Rice is too dry or mushy?
Ah, a common concern! If your fried rice turns out too dry, you can add a splash of water or soy sauce while reheating. If it’s mushy, start using older (a day or two) leftover rice next time, as fresh rice can retain too much moisture. Ensuring the rice is adequately cooled before frying is also crucial to achieving that perfect texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Air Fryer Fried Rice?
Definitely! For those with allergies, it’s important to check the soy sauce label for any gluten or other allergens. You can replace it with tamari for a gluten-free version. If you’re cooking for pets, keep in mind that onions and garlic should not be shared with them, as they can be harmful. Always tailor the ingredients to fit your dietary needs!

Can I use different vegetables or proteins in Air Fryer Fried Rice?
Very much so! The beauty of this dish is its versatility. You can swap in any fresh veggies you have, like bell peppers or broccoli, and add proteins such as chicken or tofu. Just pre-cook any raw proteins before mixing them into the rice to ensure everything heats evenly and safely.