Air fryer fried rice: 22 minutes to flavor-packed bliss

Name: Air fryer fried rice: 22 minutes to flavor-packed bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 22 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked rice; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; 1 egg, beaten; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 22, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Let me tell you, air fryer fried rice has quickly become one of my go-to meals when I’m in a pinch but still want something delicious! It’s amazing how such simple ingredients can come together to create a dish that’s not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility; you can throw in whatever veggies you have on hand, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice. Seriously, I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made this after a busy day, and it’s always a hit!

What I love most is that it takes hardly any time at all—just about 22 minutes from start to finish! The air fryer gives the rice that perfect crispy texture while maintaining the tender goodness you crave. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding proteins like chicken or shrimp, turning it into a complete meal. It’s perfect for lunch preps, quick dinners, or even as a side dish for a bigger feast. Trust me, once you try this air fryer fried rice, you’ll be making it on repeat!

Ingredients List

To whip up this delicious air fryer fried rice, you’ll need just a handful of simple ingredients that come together perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups cooked rice
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped
1 egg, beaten
Salt and pepper to taste

Make sure your rice is cooked and cooled for the best results—leftover rice works wonders here! The mixed vegetables can be fresh or frozen, whatever you have on hand! And don’t hesitate to adjust the soy sauce to your liking; some like it a bit saltier, while others prefer a lighter touch. This combination is not only easy but deliciously satisfying!

How to Prepare Air Fryer Fried Rice

Now, let’s dive into the fun part—making this scrumptious air fryer fried rice! Don’t worry; I’ll guide you through each step so you can whip this up without a hitch. Trust me, it’s easier than you might think!

Preheat the Air Fryer

The first step is to preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). I can’t stress enough how important this is! Preheating ensures that your rice gets that lovely crispy texture while cooking. It only takes a few minutes, and while it’s warming up, you can gather your ingredients and get everything ready. Multitasking at its finest!

Mix the Ingredients

Once your air fryer is preheated, grab a large mixing bowl and start by adding the 2 cups of cooked rice. Then, toss in 1 cup of mixed vegetables—carrots, peas, and corn are my favorites! Next, drizzle in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. The aroma alone will make your mouth water! Finally, mix in the chopped green onions for that fresh kick. Give it a good stir until all the ingredients are well combined; you want every grain of rice to get a little love from the soy sauce.

Add the Egg

Now it’s time for the magic ingredient: the beaten egg! Pour it into your rice and veggie mixture. This step is crucial because it helps bind everything together and adds a lovely richness. Make sure you mix it thoroughly; you want to see the egg evenly distributed throughout the rice. No egg left behind!

Transfer and Cook

Next, carefully transfer your vibrant mixture into the air fryer basket. Spread it out evenly to ensure even cooking. Set your air fryer to cook for about 10-12 minutes. Here’s a little pro tip: stir the rice halfway through cooking. This helps achieve that perfect, crispy texture all around! Just set a timer so you don’t forget; I’ve definitely been guilty of that before!

Season and Serve

Once your air fryer fried rice is all cooked and golden, it’s time for the finishing touches! Season it with salt and pepper to taste—this really elevates the flavors. Serve it up hot, and watch everyone’s eyes light up at the sight of this colorful dish. You can garnish it with a few extra green onions if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy every single bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This air fryer fried rice is truly a game changer in the kitchen! Here are just a few reasons why you’ll fall head over heels for it:

Quick Preparation: In just about 22 minutes, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal ready to go. Perfect for those busy weeknights!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and made with minimal oil, this dish is a wholesome choice that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Customizable with Additional Protein: Want to make it heartier? Add some cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu! The possibilities are endless, so you can tailor it to your taste.
Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a fantastic way to use up leftover rice and veggies lying around. It transforms what could be wasted into something delicious!
Great for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and portion it out for lunch or dinner throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, making your life easier!

With all these benefits, it’s no wonder this air fryer fried rice recipe has become a staple in my home! I can’t wait for you to try it!

Tips for Success

To ensure your air fryer fried rice turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got some tried-and-true tips that I swear by! Follow these, and you’ll be a fried rice pro in no time!

Use Leftover Rice: This is my number one tip! Leftover rice that’s been cooled in the fridge is drier and less sticky, making it ideal for frying. If you’ve got fresh rice, try spreading it out on a baking sheet to cool for a bit before using. It makes a world of difference!
Adjust Soy Sauce to Taste: Everyone has different preferences when it comes to saltiness, so don’t hesitate to tweak the amount of soy sauce. Start with 2 tablespoons, and if you like a bit more flavor, add a splash more. Just remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
Protein Additions: Want to take your fried rice to the next level? Consider adding some protein! Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu are fantastic choices. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and toss them in with the rest of the ingredients. They’ll heat through perfectly in the air fryer!
Experiment with Vegetables: The beauty of this recipe is how versatile it is! Feel free to swap out the mixed veggies for whatever you have on hand. Bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas all work wonderfully. Just make sure they’re cut into small pieces for even cooking.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: For the crispiest results, avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. If you’re making a large batch, consider cooking it in two separate rounds. It helps each grain of rice get that lovely golden color and texture!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to mastering air fryer fried rice! It’s all about making it your own and enjoying the process. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information Section

Let’s talk about the nutritional perks of this air fryer fried rice! While it’s always good to enjoy delicious food, knowing what’s in it adds to the experience. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving (1 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 500mg
Cholesterol: 50mg

Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients you use, especially if you decide to add protein or change up the vegetables. It’s always a good idea to adjust according to your dietary needs and preferences! Enjoy this tasty dish guilt-free knowing it’s packed with flavor and good-for-you ingredients!

FAQ Section

Got questions about air fryer fried rice? Don’t worry, I’ve got answers to the most common queries that pop up. Let’s dive in!

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Absolutely! Frozen vegetables work perfectly in this recipe. Just toss them straight into the mixing bowl without thawing. They’ll cook up beautifully in the air fryer, and you’ll save time on prep. Plus, they add a nice pop of color!

How do I store leftovers?

If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), simply let the fried rice cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. Just reheat it in the air fryer or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again. Quick and easy!

Can I add more protein?

You bet! Adding protein is a fantastic idea to make this dish heartier. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu are all excellent choices. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and mix them in with the rice and veggies before air frying. You’ll have a complete meal that’s satisfying and delicious!

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, you can easily make this air fryer fried rice vegan! Simply skip the egg or use a plant-based egg substitute. The dish will still be flavorful and satisfying. Feel free to add more veggies or plant-based proteins to amp up the nutrition!

What’s the best type of rice to use?

Leftover rice is best here! Day-old rice that’s been cooled in the fridge is ideal because it’s drier, preventing the fried rice from becoming mushy. If you don’t have leftover rice, cook fresh rice and let it cool for a bit before using it. Jasmine or basmati rice works great, but any variety you like will do just fine!

If you have any other questions, feel free to reach out! I’m always here to help you create the best air fryer fried rice experience!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve mastered that delicious air fryer fried rice, let’s talk about how to take your meal to the next level! Here are some fantastic serving suggestions that pair beautifully with this dish, creating a complete and satisfying dining experience.

Stir-Fried Vegetables: A colorful mix of stir-fried veggies is a perfect complement! Think bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas sautéed in a little sesame oil. They add freshness and crunch alongside your fried rice.
Grilled Chicken or Shrimp: For a heartier meal, serve your air fryer fried rice with grilled chicken or shrimp. The smoky char from the grill adds a wonderful flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory rice.
Egg Rolls or Spring Rolls: Want to add some crunch? Crispy egg rolls or fresh spring rolls served on the side are a delightful addition. They bring texture and a fun element to your meal!
Dumplings: Whether steamed or pan-fried, dumplings are another fantastic pairing. They’re filled with savory goodness and make for a satisfying duo with your fried rice.
Asian-Inspired Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a sesame vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the fried rice. Toss together mixed greens, cucumbers, and shredded carrots for a colorful side.
Hot and Sour Soup: For a comforting touch, serve a small bowl of hot and sour soup. The tangy and spicy flavors are a lovely contrast to the savory fried rice.
Pickled Vegetables: A side of pickled vegetables adds a nice zing! The acidity cuts through the richness of the fried rice, making every bite even more enjoyable.

Mix and match these ideas to create a meal that suits your taste and occasion! Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a special gathering, these suggestions elevate your air fryer fried rice into a memorable feast. Enjoy, and don’t forget to share with family and friends!