Name: Savory and Quick Air Fryer Fried Rice with Veggies
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.); 2 large Eggs (Consider an egg substitute if desired.); 4 cups Cooked and Chilled Rice (Use either white or brown rice.); 2 cups Frozen Mixed Vegetables (Fresh vegetables can also work nicely.); 1 small Onion (Yellow or white onion is preferred.); 2 cloves Garlic (Garlic powder can be a substitute.); 3 tablespoons Low Sodium Soy Sauce (Use tamari for a gluten-free option.); 2 tablespoons Oyster Sauce (Skip for a vegetarian option.); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Vegetable oil can be a substitute.); 2 tablespoons Green Onions (Highly recommended for garnish.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the whir of the air fryer caught my attention—its promise of a simple dinner had me excited for a taste of homemade comfort. This Quick and Easy Air Fryer Fried Rice not only satisfies cravings for something savory and satisfying but also packs a colorful punch of veggies into every bite, making it a nutritious choice. With just under 30 minutes of prep and cooking time, it’s an absolute win for those busy weeknights. Plus, its versatility means you can easily customize it with your favorite proteins or vegetables, ensuring each meal feels fresh and new. Ready to discover how easy it can really be to achieve that delightful take-out vibe at home? Let’s dive into this recipe!

Why Is Air Fryer Fried Rice Amazing?

Packed with flavor: This dish offers a delightful blend of tender rice and fresh vegetables coated in savory sauces that will excite your taste buds.
Quick preparation: With under 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s the ultimate meal for those hectic weeknights.
Endless customization: Toss in your favorite proteins like chicken or shrimp, or mix in colorful vegetables for a personal twist!
Healthier choice: Using an air fryer cuts down on oil and calories—making this a guilt-free indulgence.
Crowd-pleaser: Whether for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is sure to impress picky eaters and food lovers alike!
Elevate your weeknight meals and explore options like Fried Strawberry Cheesecake for a sweet ending to a savory feast.

Air Fryer Fried Rice Ingredients

For the Base

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and flavor, but feel free to substitute with olive oil for a lighter option.
Large Eggs – Provides protein and helps bind the ingredients; consider an egg substitute if desired.
Cooked and Chilled Rice – This is the base of the dish; either white or brown rice works, just ensure it’s cool before frying for the best texture.

For the Vegetables

Frozen Mixed Vegetables – A quick way to add nutrients and color without thawing; fresh vegetables can also work nicely!
Small Onion – Brings sweetness and depth of flavor, with yellow or white onion being the preferred choice.
Garlic – Enhances aroma and taste; if fresh isn’t on hand, garlic powder can be a handy substitute.

For Flavor

Low Sodium Soy Sauce – Provides saltiness and amps up the umami; for a gluten-free option, use tamari instead.
Oyster Sauce – Adds depth and complexity; you can skip it for a vegetarian option or substitute with mushroom sauce.
Sesame Oil – Contributes a nutty flavor; vegetable oil can replace it for a lighter taste.

For Garnish

Green Onions – Essential for a fresh garnish; while optional, they are highly recommended for that extra zing!

Take the leap into deliciousness with this Air Fryer Fried Rice that promises a quick, colorful, and healthy weeknight meal!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Fried Rice

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer
Begin by preheating your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a consistent cooking temperature for your Air Fryer Fried Rice. While the air fryer heats up, prepare the ingredients, so everything is ready for a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture
In an oven-safe pan that fits your air fryer, melt some unsalted butter over medium heat. Add in the scrambled eggs and stir until fully cooked. Next, mix in the frozen vegetables, diced onion, minced garlic, and cooked, chilled rice, ensuring that everything is well combined to capture all the flavors in your fried rice.

Step 3: Add the Sauces
Pour in the low sodium soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil into the pan with the rice mixture. Stir well to ensure every grain of rice and vegetable is coated with the savory sauces. This step adds depth and richness to the Air Fryer Fried Rice, making it irresistible.

Step 4: Cook in the Air Fryer
Carefully place the pan into the preheated air fryer and set the timer for 10-15 minutes. Stir the mixture every 5 minutes to promote even cooking and to prevent it from sticking. You’ll know it’s ready when the rice is hot and the vegetables are tender, bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the cooking time is complete, remove the pan from the air fryer. If desired, sprinkle chopped green onions over the top for a fresh touch. This finishing step adds both color and a mild onion flavor to your delicious Air Fryer Fried Rice. Now it’s ready to serve warm!

Storage Tips for Air Fryer Fried Rice

Room Temperature: Allow fried rice to cool to room temperature before storing, but avoid letting it sit out for more than 2 hours to maintain food safety.
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s tightly sealed to keep it fresh.
Freezer: Freeze portions of the Air Fryer Fried Rice in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat in the microwave or skillet, adding a splash of water to keep it from drying out and enhance the flavors.

What to Serve with Quick and Easy Air Fryer Fried Rice?

When envisioning a complete meal, it’s essential to consider delightful pairings that will elevate your Air Fryer Fried Rice to new heights.

Grilled Chicken Skewers: Juicy and flavorful, these skewers add a hearty protein to balance the lightness of the fried rice. Perfect for that home-cooked comfort!
Spicy Szechuan Green Beans: The crunch of these green beans, infused with garlic and chili, enhances the overall experience, offering a delightful textural contrast.
Teriyaki Salmon: Rich and tender salmon drizzled with sweet teriyaki sauce complements the umami flavors of the fried rice beautifully. It’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Miso Soup: A warm bowl of miso soup brings a comforting Japanese touch, smoothing the palate and providing a light, refreshing contrast to the dish.
Asian Cucumber Salad: Crisp and refreshing, this salad introduces a cool tanginess that brightens the meal, making every bite refreshing and satisfying.
Chow Mein Noodles: A side of these stir-fried noodles delivers a familiar touch of Asian cuisine, making for a hearty and adventurous dining experience.
Steamed Edamame: Nutty and vibrant, these steamed soybeans are a great snack or side, adding protein and a fun interactive element to your meal.
Chilled Green Tea: A glass of subtly sweetened green tea offers a perfect quenching refreshment to accompany the savory flavors on your plate.
Fruit Spring Rolls: Light and fruity, these rolls offer a sweet finale to your meal, showcasing freshness and a hint of indulgence without being too heavy.

Expert Tips for Air Fryer Fried Rice

Chill Your Rice: Ensure the cooked rice is chilled before using. This prevents it from becoming mushy during the cooking process, ensuring perfect texture.
Stir Often: Mix the ingredients every 5 minutes in the air fryer. This promotes even cooking and prevents the fried rice from sticking to the pan.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with your favorite sauces or spices! Adding a splash of chili oil or soy sauce can enhance the flavor of your Air Fryer Fried Rice.
Protein Boost: For added nutrition, incorporate cooked chicken, shrimp, or beef during the cooking phase for a wholesome meal.
Veggie Options: Don’t hesitate to get creative with vegetables! Feel free to add colorful bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for even more nutrients and flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Fried Rice are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on meal prep! You can prepare the mixture of cooked rice, vegetables, and sauces up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the chilled rice, frozen vegetables, diced onion, garlic, and sauces in an oven-safe pan, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. This not only brings out the flavors but also maintains the quality of your ingredients. When you’re ready to serve, just pop the pan in the preheated air fryer for 10-15 minutes. Stir every 5 minutes to ensure even cooking, and you’ll have a delicious homemade dish on the table with minimal effort!

Air Fryer Fried Rice Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and put your personal spin on this delicious dish!

Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, diced pork, beef, or shrimp for a hearty meal. These proteins enhance the dish’s flavor and nutrient content, making it even more satisfying.
Vegetable Remix: Customize by tossing in colorful bell peppers, baby corn, broccoli, or sugar snap peas. Each vegetable adds a unique taste and texture, bringing your fried rice to life with every bite.
Spicy Kick: For heat, add a sprinkle of chili flakes or a drizzle of Sriracha to elevate your flavor experience. It’s a simple adjustment that can transform the dish into a zesty masterpiece.
Low-Carb Alternative: Swap rice for cauliflower rice to create a lighter, low-carb version of this classic dish. This twist retains the essence of fried rice while keeping it healthy and guilt-free.
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or basil for a refreshing burst of flavor. These herbs not only elevate the taste but also bring a delightful aroma to your kitchen.
Crispy Texture: Toss in some toasted sesame seeds or crushed nuts for an added crunch factor. This extra element provides contrast to the tender rice and veggies, making it even more enjoyable.
Sweet and Savory: Incorporate a touch of pineapple or sweet corn to introduce a sweet flavor that complements the savory notes beautifully. This harmonious contrast becomes an exciting taste adventure.
Asian Fusion: For a twist on the traditional, consider adding Korean gochujang or Thai curry paste to the mix. Each option offers a different flavor profile that adds depth and an exciting new layer to your air fryer fried rice.

Ready to indulge in these ideas? Whether you’re looking for something indulgent or lighter, this quick and easy air fryer fried rice is the perfect starting point! For more delicious inspiration, check out my recipes for Packed Thai Fried or Caramelized Pork Rice.

Air Fryer Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right rice for Air Fryer Fried Rice?
For the best results, use cooked and chilled rice, preferably day-old rice since it’s less sticky and helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture. White rice or brown rice works equally well as long as it is cooled before cooking.

How long can I store leftover Air Fryer Fried Rice?
You can store leftover Air Fryer Fried Rice in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.

Can I freeze Air Fryer Fried Rice?
Absolutely! To freeze, let the fried rice cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up using a microwave or skillet, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

What if my Air Fryer Fried Rice seems dry when reheating?
If your fried rice appears dry, don’t worry! Just add a splash of water or broth to the mixture while reheating. This will help add moisture back into the rice, giving it that delicious, fluffy texture again.

Can I make Air Fryer Fried Rice with fresh vegetables?
Of course! While I often use frozen mixed vegetables for convenience, you can absolutely use fresh vegetables. Just chop them into small pieces and sauté them briefly in the pan before adding the rice and sauces to ensure they are cooked perfectly.

Are there any dietary considerations for Air Fryer Fried Rice?
When making Air Fryer Fried Rice, be mindful of allergies, especially to soy if using soy sauce. For gluten-free options, tamari sauce is a fantastic substitute. Additionally, feel free to skip the oyster sauce for a vegetarian/vegan option, substituting with a mushroom-based sauce for added depth.