Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe

There’s something magic about waking up to the sizzling aroma of bacon and the wholesome excitement of a hearty, colorful skillet. Breakfast Fried Rice is the dish that checks every morning box: savory, satisfying, ridiculously easy, and guaranteed to vanish before you know it. Crispy bacon, dreamy scrambled eggs, sweet veggies, fluffy rice, and a splash of soy sauce come together for a breakfast that feels both special and effortless. If you’re familiar with classic fried rice but have never tried it in the morning with all your breakfast favorites, now’s your moment!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Breakfast Fried Rice is that every ingredient truly counts and contributes something unique, whether it’s texture, big flavors, or just a pop of color. Don’t be tempted to skip or substitute at first — taste it as written and you’ll see why!

• Bacon: Brings irresistible smokiness and a satisfying crunch that anchors this breakfast.
• Eggs: Softly scrambled eggs create fluffy bites, boosting both richness and protein.
• Kosher salt and ground pepper: Just enough seasoning to spotlight the main flavors and balance out the soy sauce.
• Butter: Melts into the onions, making the whole skillet taste warm and luxurious.
• White onion: Diced and sautéed, it mellows and sweetens everything it touches.
• Garlic: Only two cloves, but they’re the backbone of the rice’s aroma and base flavor.
• Cold cooked rice: Using chilled, day-old rice keeps everything separate and perfectly chewy — no mushy fried rice here!
• Soy sauce: Delivers depth, umami, and just enough saltiness.
• Toasted sesame oil: Adds a final nutty, roasty perfume that lingers in each bite.
• Frozen peas and carrots: No chopping required, and they pop with sweetness and color.
• Frozen corn: Bursts of juicy sweetness work so well with the bacon.
• Green onions: Sprinkle on top for brightness, freshness, and a bit of crunch.

How to Make Breakfast Fried Rice

Step 1: Crisp Up the Bacon

Start by adding chopped bacon to a cold skillet or wok — this helps the fat render slowly, making each piece ultra crispy. As the bacon cooks, stir occasionally for an even golden crunch. Once it’s crisp and fragrant (you’ll know when!), scoop it out with a slotted spoon so it can drain on paper towels and stay nice and crunchy.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

While the bacon does its thing, crack your eggs into a bowl and season with a little salt and pepper. Beat them lightly with a fork — you want everything well blended but not frothy. Use some of the bacon fat (your secret flavor weapon) to cook the eggs, gently swirling to coat the pan. Don’t rush it! Scramble toward the center, let them briefly set, then finish scrambling until just cooked. Set them aside to keep them fluffy.

Step 3: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Turn up the heat a little, melt in your butter, and toss in the diced white onion. This is when your kitchen will truly start to smell like breakfast heaven. Sweat the onions until translucent (about 5-6 minutes), then add that minced garlic. Give it only a minute, just until it’s fragrant, so it doesn’t turn bitter.

Step 4: Fry the Rice

Time for the star ingredient! Add your cold, cooked rice straight into the skillet. Toss it in with the onions and garlic until every grain is coated. Then, smooth it out into an even layer and let it sit undisturbed. This brief pause is what creates those coveted crispy bits you find in the best fried rice — don’t skip it!

Step 5: Flavor & Finish

Drizzle in your soy sauce, and use a wooden spoon to gently loosen the rice from the bottom, stirring so every grain gets some love. Next, in go the frozen peas, carrots, and corn along with a splash of toasted sesame oil. Keep stirring until the veggies are hot and the rice looks glossy and dry. Off the heat, quickly fold in your bacon, scrambled eggs, and most of the green onions. Breakfast Fried Rice is ready to serve — piping hot and full of flavor!

How to Serve Breakfast Fried Rice

Garnishes

Finish your Breakfast Fried Rice with a generous sprinkle of fresh green onions. For a little fancy flair, you might add a few dashes of extra soy sauce or a tiny drizzle of sesame oil on top. If you like a bit of heat, scatter on some thinly sliced red chilies or a sprinkle of chili flakes.

Side Dishes

You don’t need much alongside a complete dish like this, but a fresh fruit salad or a tangy side of pickled cucumbers can cut through the richness beautifully. If you’re dreaming big, a hot mug of coffee or fresh orange juice makes the perfect brunch pairing for your Breakfast Fried Rice.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the fried rice in individual bowls topped with a soft-fried egg, or spoon it into hollowed-out bell peppers for a colorful brunch tray. For a real breakfast-for-dinner twist, serve it as the filling for a breakfast-stuffed burrito or pile it onto avocado toast. The possibilities with Breakfast Fried Rice are endless and always impressive!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Refrigerate leftover Breakfast Fried Rice in an airtight container as soon as it cools. It’ll stay fresh for up to three days and makes a fantastic second-day breakfast or on-the-go lunch. Just keep the rice separate from extra garnishes to maintain its best texture.

Freezing

For longer storage, pack the cooled fried rice into individual freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags (press out as much air as you can). It freezes beautifully for up to two months. Be sure to label and date your containers so that you don’t lose track of your delicious stash!

Reheating

The easiest way to reheat is in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or a bit of extra soy sauce if the rice seems dry, then stir while heating for 5-7 minutes. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in short bursts, fluffing in between, until steaming hot.

FAQs

Can I use another type of meat instead of bacon?

Absolutely! Breakfast Fried Rice is just as tasty with diced cooked ham, crumbled sausage, or even leftover roasted chicken. Vegetarian? Use smoked tofu or extra veggies for savory depth.

Why does the rice need to be cold?

Cold, day-old rice holds its shape when fried, preventing the dreaded mushy outcome. Freshly cooked rice contains more moisture and tends to clump and go gummy. If you’re pressed for time, spread hot rice on a tray and pop it in the freezer for 20 minutes.

Can I add other vegetables?

Go right ahead! Finely diced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or even kale would be delicious. Just keep the overall quantity similar so the rice stays the star of Breakfast Fried Rice.

Is it gluten-free?

Soy sauce usually contains wheat, but you can swap in tamari or coconut aminos to make this dish entirely gluten-free. Always check your labels just to be safe!

Can I make Breakfast Fried Rice vegan?

You can! Omit the bacon and eggs, and use plant-based butter. Add smoked tofu, tempeh, or extra veggies for protein and texture. This is a recipe that loves a spin!

Final Thoughts

If you’re ready to upgrade your mornings, give Breakfast Fried Rice a try — it’s the kind of breakfast that makes any day feel special. Make it for loved ones, keep it all for yourself, or add your own twist as you go. I promise, once you taste how easy and delicious this is, those takeout containers will start gathering dust!

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