Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight meal: air fryer fried rice! It’s quick, incredibly tasty, and so easy to whip up that it’s become my go-to whenever I’m short on time but still want something delicious. Seriously, I can have dinner on the table in about 25 minutes, and the best part? You can customize it with whatever veggies you have on hand! I love the way the air fryer gives the rice a little crispy texture while keeping everything flavorful and vibrant. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover rice from last night’s takeout. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be making it on repeat. It’s a lifesaver for busy nights!
Ingredients for Air Fryer Fried Rice
Gather these simple ingredients, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious bowl of air fryer fried rice in no time!
- 2 cups cooked rice (best if it’s cold and leftover)
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
Feel free to swap out any veggies you don’t have or add in some extras if you’re feeling adventurous! This recipe is all about flexibility and making it your own.
How to Prepare Air Fryer Fried Rice
Let’s get cooking! Preparing air fryer fried rice is a breeze, and I’m here to guide you through every step. Just follow along, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious, homemade meal in no time!
Preheat the Air Fryer
First things first, preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This step is super important because it ensures that everything cooks evenly and gets that lovely crispy texture we all love. Once it’s heated up, you’re ready to dive in!
Scramble the Eggs
Next, grab those eggs! In a bowl, whisk the eggs together until they’re nice and blended. Then, pour them into the preheated air fryer and let them scramble for about 3-4 minutes. You’ll want to stir them occasionally to get that perfect fluffy texture. It’s so easy, and it smells amazing!
Combine Ingredients
Once the eggs are scrambled to perfection, it’s time to mix in the star players! Add the cooked rice and mixed vegetables to the air fryer. Drizzle in the soy sauce and sesame oil, then give everything a good stir to combine. Make sure all the rice gets coated evenly—this is where the flavor magic happens!
Cooking Time and Finishing Touches
Now, close the air fryer and let it cook for another 5-7 minutes. Give it a gentle shake halfway through to ensure even cooking. You’ll know it’s done when the rice is heated through and has that delightful crispy edge. Before serving, garnish with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of salt to taste. Enjoy your flavorful creation!
Tips for Success with Air Fryer Fried Rice
To really nail this air fryer fried rice, there are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way that make all the difference! First, always use leftover rice if you can. Cold rice holds its shape better and prevents that mushy texture we all want to avoid. If you don’t have any, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool it down quickly.
Also, don’t be shy with the seasonings! Adjust the soy sauce to your taste, and feel free to add a splash of extra sesame oil for that nutty flavor. You can even toss in some garlic powder or ginger for an extra kick. Lastly, remember that this recipe is super flexible—so get creative! Add in your favorite proteins or other veggies to make it uniquely yours. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Air Fryer Fried Rice
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so these numbers are just an estimate. For each serving of this delicious air fryer fried rice, you can expect approximately:
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
With all those vibrant veggies, it’s a tasty and satisfying option for a quick meal!
FAQ About Air Fryer Fried Rice
Got some questions about making air fryer fried rice? No worries! I’ve got you covered with answers to some of the most common ones. This dish is super versatile, so let’s clear up any confusion you might have!
Can I Use Raw Vegetables?
Absolutely! While I recommend using mixed frozen vegetables for convenience, you can definitely use raw veggies. Just keep in mind that you’ll want to chop them into small, even pieces to ensure they cook through. Bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas work great, but be sure to add them a bit earlier so they have time to soften!
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce?
If you’re looking for soy sauce alternatives, there are several options! You can use tamari for a gluten-free version or coconut aminos for a soy-free option. If you want a lower-sodium choice, look for reduced-sodium soy sauce. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still be delicious!
Can I Add Protein?
Definitely! Adding protein is a fantastic way to amp up your air fryer fried rice. Cooked chicken, shrimp, or even tofu can be mixed in. Just toss in the protein at the same time as the rice and veggies, making sure it’s pre-cooked and cut into bite-sized pieces. It’ll make your meal even heartier!
Why You’ll Love This Air Fryer Fried Rice Recipe
This air fryer fried rice isn’t just a meal; it’s a game changer! Here’s why you’ll fall head over heels for it:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavor Packed: The combination of soy sauce and sesame oil brings a delicious umami flavor to every bite.
- Customizable: Use whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand to make it uniquely yours.
- Healthy Option: Loaded with veggies and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family.
- Crispy Goodness: The air fryer gives the rice a delightful crispy texture that you won’t want to miss.
- Leftover Friendly: A fantastic way to use up leftover rice, reducing food waste while making something delicious!
Once you try it, I promise it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Serving Suggestions for Air Fryer Fried Rice
This air fryer fried rice is incredibly versatile and pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes! I love serving it alongside crispy sesame chicken or grilled shrimp for a complete meal. You could also add a fresh side salad or some steamed broccoli to lighten things up. And don’t forget a drizzle of extra soy sauce or sriracha for those who like a little kick! Enjoy your delicious, well-rounded dinner!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers (which I highly doubt because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply pop it back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes to reheat. You can also use the microwave if you’re in a rush—just make sure to cover it to keep it from drying out. Enjoy your tasty meal again!
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Air fryer fried rice: 5 reasons you’ll love this quick dish
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and easy recipe for air fryer fried rice.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 2 eggs
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C).
- In a bowl, whisk the eggs and scramble them in the air fryer for 3-4 minutes.
- Add the cooked rice and mixed vegetables to the air fryer.
- Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Stir well and cook for another 5-7 minutes.
- Garnish with green onions and season with salt.
Notes
- Use leftover rice for best results.
- Adjust the soy sauce to your taste.
- Add protein like chicken or shrimp if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: air fryer fried rice, easy fried rice, quick rice recipe
