There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of breakfast fried rice that transforms a simple morning into a delightful experience. Picture this: the hypnotic sound of sizzling bacon, combined with the rich aroma of garlic and spring onions, fills your kitchen, enticing everyone to gather around. You wouldn’t believe how easily you can whip up this vibrant dish, effortlessly paving the way for a flavor-packed start to your day.
This breakfast fried rice is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of leftover rice’s potential. While it may sound humble, each spoonful is a delight, with crispy bacon, hints of spice, and that oh-so-satisfying fried egg on top. Whether you’re weary from fast food or just craving something homey and delicious, this recipe promises to reignite your love for homemade cooking. Trust me, once you try it, this quick and colorful dish will become your go-to breakfast favorite!
Why is Breakfast Fried Rice a Must-Try?
Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal ingredients and just a few easy steps to create a filling breakfast meal.
Mouthwatering flavors: The combination of crispy bacon, fragrant garlic, and spicy chili flakes delivers a deliciously satisfying taste.
Quick prep: Perfect for busy mornings, this dish comes together in no time, making it a great choice for those who need to save time without sacrificing flavor.
Versatile and customizable: Feel free to add more veggies or swap in your favorite protein for a personal touch!
Crowd-pleaser: Serve it up for a brunch gathering, and watch everyone come back for seconds! This breakfast fried rice is bound to become a favorite for all.
Transform your mornings with this delightful recipe and experience a renewed passion for homemade meals.
Ingredients for Breakfast Fried Rice
• A delicious medley awaits!
For the Rice
• 300 g cooked day-old rice – Ideally jasmine rice for the best texture and flavor.
• 2 tbsp soy sauce – Enhances the umami taste of your dish.
For the Bacon and Aromatics
• 120 – 150 g regular cut bacon – The crispy goodness adds savory depth.
• 2 garlic cloves minced – Adds a robust flavor that complements the bacon.
• 4 spring onions – Use the white parts for cooking and the green parts for garnish.
• 1 tbsp brown sugar – A hint of sweetness balances the savory notes.
• 1 tbsp crushed chili flakes – For those who love a little heat in their breakfast.
• ¼ tsp sea salt – Enhances all the flavors in the dish.
For the Fried Egg
• 2 eggs – Fried to perfection, they’ve become the star atop your rice!
• 1 garlic clove minced (for fried egg) – Infuses the oil with love and flavor.
• 1 tsp crushed chili flakes (for fried egg) – Adds an extra kick just where you want it.
• Salt and pepper to taste (for fried egg) – Season to personal preference.
For the Finishing Touches
• 2 tsp sesame oil – A drizzle at the end brings a nutty aroma to the dish.
• Roasted peanuts – Adds a crunchy garnish for texture and flavor contrast.
Now you’re equipped to create the most satisfying Breakfast Fried Rice—a delightful dish sure to impress everyone at your table!
How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice
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Slice the spring onions, separating the white and light green parts from the green parts. This will enhance the flavors and add a nice color contrast to your dish.
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Cut the bacon into strips, ensuring even pieces for a perfect crispy texture when cooked. The bacon will lend a savory base to our breakfast fried rice.
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Heat a non-stick pan over medium to medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until it turns crispy and golden brown, releasing its delicious fat along the way.
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Remove excess fat if necessary, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan to continue flavoring the dish you’re about to create!
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Add the minced garlic, white parts of the spring onions, brown sugar, salt, and chili flakes to the pan, stirring gently. Sauté for about 1 minute to soften the garlic without burning, filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.
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Incorporate the cooked rice and 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, stirring to combine and breaking up any rice lumps for even distribution of flavors.
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Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of water or stock over the rice to help the seasoning mix, ensuring it’s moisture-rich and delicious.
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Stir-fry the rice until softened and well combined with the seasonings. As it cooks, taste and adjust the soy sauce to your liking for that perfect umami hit.
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Add the green parts of the spring onions, tossing to combine while the rice is still hot, allowing the freshness to stand out beautifully.
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Divide the rice into two bowls, drizzling 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over each portion. The sesame oil adds a lovely nutty flavor that finalizes your dish.
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Top the rice with the freshly fried eggs and a generous sprinkle of roasted peanuts for added crunch and flavor contrast.
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Prepare the fried egg by heating a small non-stick pan over medium-high heat with a touch of oil.
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Sauté the minced garlic and chili flakes in the oil, infusing it with that wonderful aroma.
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Crack the eggs into the pan and spoon hot garlic chili oil over the whites until they set, bringing color and flavor.
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Season the eggs lightly with salt and pepper to taste, then transfer them gently to the rice bowls, creating the perfect finishing touch!
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Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of your Breakfast Fried Rice with loved ones.
Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs for an extra splash of color.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Variations & Substitutions for Breakfast Fried Rice
Feel free to mix things up according to your taste or dietary needs—these fun twists will inspire creativity in your cooking!
- Vegetarian: Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or firm tofu, seasoned with soy sauce for a hearty, plant-based option.
- Vegan: Skip the eggs entirely or use tofu scramble for a delicious, scrummy top that still brings that protein punch.
- Spicy Kick: Add sriracha or a drizzle of hot chili oil for an extra bold flavor that’ll awaken your taste buds with every bite.
- Nut-Free: Substitute roasted sunflower seeds for peanuts to keep that satisfying crunch, while avoiding allergens.
- Brown Rice: Swap white rice for brown rice for a healthier twist that adds fiber and a slightly nuttier flavor.
- Added Veggies: Toss in diced bell peppers, peas, or carrots for an extra dose of color, nutrition, and crunch. Use whatever veggies you have on hand!
- Sesame-Free: If you’re avoiding sesame oil, try drizzling a bit of olive or avocado oil for a different but delightful flavor profile.
- Sweet & Savory: Mix in some diced pineapple for a sweet contrast that pairs beautifully with the savory elements in your fried rice.
Explore these variations to create your own unique masterpiece and make this breakfast fried rice your own!
How to Store and Freeze Breakfast Fried Rice
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Room Temperature: If you plan to eat it the same day, let your breakfast fried rice cool down before serving, but aim to eat within 2 hours to ensure freshness.
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Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to moisten.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze breakfast fried rice in portions for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to enjoy its flavors anew.
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Reheating: When reheating, add a bit of oil and heat in a pan for best results. This keeps the rice fluffy and prevents it from drying out, allowing you to savor that original taste.
Make Ahead Options
These Breakfast Fried Rice bowls are perfect for busy mornings, allowing you to prep components in advance! You can cook the rice up to 3 days in advance; simply store it tightly covered in the refrigerator to maintain its texture. Additionally, you can slice the spring onions and bacon up to 24 hours ahead, keeping them in airtight containers. When you’re ready to enjoy your meal, just sauté the bacon and garlic, add the prepped rice with soy sauce, and finish with the green onions and sesame oil. For a fresh touch, fry the eggs just before serving to ensure they’re hot and delicious. With these make-ahead steps, you’ll enjoy a satisfying breakfast with minimal morning effort!
What to Serve with Breakfast Fried Rice?
Start your flavorful journey with a delightful meal that pairs perfectly with this comforting dish.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits adds brightness and a refreshing contrast to the savory rice.
- Miso Soup: The earthy flavor of miso complements the umami of the fried rice, making for a warm and nourishing combo.
- Sautéed Spinach: This vibrant green will give your plate a pop of color while adding a nutritious, slightly bitter element.
- Cucumber Kimchi: The tangy, spicy crunch of kimchi brings an exciting twist that harmonizes beautifully with fried rice.
- Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and tender, these carrots provide a wonderful balance to the savory notes in your breakfast.
- Chili Oil Drizzle: If you love a bit more kick, a drizzle of chili oil on the rice heightens the flavor and intensity.
- Iced Green Tea: Light and refreshing, this drink enhances the meal without overpowering the comforting flavors.
- Coconut Chia Pudding: For a sweet finish, this creamy dessert offers a cool, nutty contrast to the warm, savory rice.
- Dumplings: Whether steamed or pan-fried, dumplings are the perfect sidekick to soak up all those delicious flavors.
Helpful Tricks for Breakfast Fried Rice
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Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist, making your breakfast fried rice clump together. Use day-old rice for the perfect texture.
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Perfect Bacon Crispiness: Cook bacon on medium heat to achieve crispy texture without burning it. Culinary patience is key to avoid soggy or overly salty bites!
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Don’t Overcook Garlic: When sautéing garlic, keep an eye on it! Burnt garlic can turn bitter, spoiling the delicate flavors in your breakfast fried rice.
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Customize with Veggies: Feel free to toss in leftover vegetables or your favorites for added nutrition and flavor. Just be sure not to overcrowd the pan.
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Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of fresh herbs or green parts of the spring onions on top will elevate your breakfast fried rice, ensuring it looks as delightful as it tastes!
Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best rice for Breakfast Fried Rice?
Absolutely! For the best results, it’s ideal to use day-old jasmine rice as it’s less sticky and holds its texture well when stir-fried. If you don’t have jasmine, feel free to use basmati or any long-grain rice; just ensure it’s cooled properly before using.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Breakfast Fried Rice?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let the rice cool to room temperature before sealing, as this helps maintain its freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I recommend reheating it in a non-stick pan with a splash of water to keep it from drying out.
Can I freeze Breakfast Fried Rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, divide the fried rice into portions and transfer them to freezer-safe bags or containers. Label them with the date and pop them in the freezer for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a pan, adding a small amount of oil to restore moisture.
What do I do if my Breakfast Fried Rice is too salty?
If you find your breakfast fried rice is a tad too salty, you can balance it with a bit of additional cooked rice to dilute the flavor. Alternatively, adding a splash of water or a squeeze of lemon can help cut the saltiness. Stir well after each addition, and taste as you go to find that perfect balance!
Can I adjust the spice level in the Breakfast Fried Rice?
Very! Feel free to adjust the amount of crushed chili flakes according to your taste preference. You can also replace them with a milder spice like paprika or omit them altogether if you prefer a more subtle flavor. The more the merrier when it comes to customizing your perfect dish!
Is this recipe safe for pets?
It’s important to note that this Breakfast Fried Rice contains ingredients like onions and garlic, which can be harmful to pets such as dogs and cats. I recommend keeping this delicious dish to yourself and preparing a pet-safe meal for your furry friends instead!
Revamp Breakfast with Bold and Easy Breakfast Fried Rice
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice the spring onions, separating the white and light green parts from the green parts.
- Cut the bacon into strips.
- Heat a non-stick pan over medium to medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy and golden brown.
- Remove excess fat if necessary, leaving about 2 tablespoons in the pan.
- Add the minced garlic, white parts of the spring onions, brown sugar, salt, and chili flakes to the pan, stirring gently.
- Incorporate the cooked rice and soy sauce, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of water or stock over the rice.
- Stir-fry the rice until well combined with the seasonings.
- Add the green parts of the spring onions, tossing to combine.
- Divide the rice into two bowls, drizzling sesame oil over each portion.
- Top the rice with the freshly fried eggs and sprinkle with roasted peanuts.
- Prepare the fried egg by heating a small non-stick pan over medium-high heat.
- Sauté the minced garlic and chili flakes in the oil.
- Crack the eggs into the pan and spoon hot garlic chili oil over the whites.
- Season the eggs lightly with salt and pepper, then transfer them to the rice bowls.
- Serve immediately and enjoy the delightful flavors of your Breakfast Fried Rice.