Name: Easy Garlic Fried Rice with Chili Oil in 15 Minutes! Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 cups cold, day-old cooked jasmine rice; 3 large eggs; 15-20 cloves garlic, minced; 2 scallions, chopped (separate white and green parts); 1 cup frozen vegetables (or fresh chopped veggies); 2 tablespoons light soy sauce; 1 tablespoon oyster sauce; 1 teaspoon white sugar; ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1 teaspoon white pepper (adjust to taste); 3 tablespoons neutral oil (such as vegetable or canola oil); Chili oil (homemade or store-bought), for drizzling

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 68 reviews

If you are craving a flavorful, comforting, and lightning-fast dish, then you have to try this Easy Garlic Fried Rice with Chili Oil in 15 Minutes! Recipe. It’s packed with fragrant garlic, perfectly scrambled eggs, vibrant vegetables, and the irresistible kick of chili oil that wakes up your taste buds instantly. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and speed, making it a perfect go-to meal for busy weeknights or when you want something satisfying without fuss. Once you have the ingredients ready, you’ll be amazed at how effortlessly this dish comes together, delivering a restaurant-quality fried rice that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There are six small white bowls and one black bowl on a white marbled surface. The black bowl on the right is filled with cooked white rice with a fluffy texture. To the left of it is a white bowl with three raw yellow egg yolks floating in clear egg whites. Above it is a white bowl with frozen mixed vegetables, including orange carrot cubes, green peas, and yellow corn kernels. Below the veggie bowl is a white bowl with finely chopped pale yellow garlic. Next to it are two small white bowls filled with sliced green spring onions, one with light green rounds and the other with darker green chopped pieces. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The secret to amazing fried rice starts with a handful of simple, essential ingredients that each play a role in building flavor, texture, and that inviting aroma. From cold, day-old rice that ensures perfect grains to the punchy chili oil that ties everything together, every item in this list is worth having on hand for a quick, delicious meal.

3 cups cold, day-old rice: Using chilled jasmine or any white rice helps keep the fried rice fluffy without clumping.
3 large eggs: These add richness and a soft, velvety texture to the dish when scrambled just right.
15-20 cloves garlic, minced: This is where the signature fragrance and depth come from, infusing the rice with a robust flavor.
2 scallions, chopped (white and green parts separated): Whites provide a mild onion bite for cooking, greens add fresh color and crunch at the end.
1 cup frozen vegetables: A quick way to add color and nutrition; fresh veggies work great too if you prefer.
2 tablespoons light soy sauce: Brings umami and a delicate salty balance.
1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Adds a luscious, savory sweetness that heightens the overall flavor.
1 teaspoon white sugar: A small touch to brighten flavors and balance savory notes.
½ teaspoon salt: Season to taste, bringing out all the dish’s nuances.
1 teaspoon white pepper: Offers a gentle heat and aroma that works beautifully with garlic.
3 tablespoons neutral oil: Ideal for cooking without overpowering the garlic or spices.
Chili oil (homemade or store-bought): The star topping that brings heat and complexity, drizzled generously over the finished rice.

How to Make Easy Garlic Fried Rice with Chili Oil in 15 Minutes! Recipe

Step 1: Scramble the eggs

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of neutral oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Beat the eggs lightly in a bowl and pour them into the hot pan. Stir gently and continuously to scramble until they’re just set but still soft and moist. Then, transfer the eggs to a plate so you can add them back in later. This step adds a rich, silky texture that contrasts wonderfully with the fluffy rice.

Step 2: Sauté garlic and scallion whites

In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons of neutral oil and toss in the minced garlic along with the white parts of the scallions. Stir frequently until the garlic is fragrant and lightly golden but not burnt—this step infuses the oil with incredible aroma that will flavor the entire dish. The warmth of the scallions rounds out the sharpness of the garlic perfectly.

Step 3: Add rice and vegetables

Now it’s time to bring the rice into the mix. Add your cold, day-old rice along with the frozen (or fresh) vegetables. Pour in the light soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, salt, and white pepper. Use your spatula to break up any clumps gently, ensuring every grain is evenly coated with the savory sauce. Stir-fry everything for a few minutes so the flavors meld beautifully and the rice gains that classic, slightly crisp texture.

Step 4: Combine eggs and scallion greens

Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, breaking them up lightly as you mix. Finally, toss in the green parts of the scallions for a pop of freshness and mild onion flavor. Give everything a final toss until every bite is bursting with flavor. Taste and adjust seasonings if needed, then remove the pan from heat, so you’re ready for the best part.

Step 5: Drizzle chili oil and serve

To finish, drizzle a generous amount of chili oil over the rice while it’s still hot. This step adds an aromatic heat and a glossy finish that turns this simple fried rice into a vibrant dish bursting with layers of flavor and texture. Serve immediately and enjoy every comforting, spicy bite.

How to Serve Easy Garlic Fried Rice with Chili Oil in 15 Minutes! Recipe

The image shows a black wok filled with three main layers. The bottom layer is a mix of fried rice with small pieces of orange carrot, yellow corn, and green peas scattered throughout. The middle layer is soft, fluffy scrambled eggs with a light yellow color, placed loosely on top of the fried rice. The top layer is a pile of finely chopped bright green spring onions spread over the eggs and rice. The surface under the wok is white marble. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A well-made garlic fried rice deserves equally thoughtful garnishes. Sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds for a subtle nutty crunch or chopped fresh cilantro for a bright herbal note. A wedge of lime on the side also works beautifully to brighten the rich flavors and add a refreshing contrast.

Side Dishes

This fried rice pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider stir-fried greens like bok choy or Chinese broccoli to keep the meal healthy and vibrant. Crispy spring rolls or spicy Korean-style wings work as crave-worthy companions if you want something hearty and indulgent.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the garlic fried rice inside a hollowed-out roasted bell pepper or even use it as a filling for lettuce wraps. You can also top it with a fried sunny-side-up egg for an extra layer of richness and a beautiful presentation that makes this humble dish feel extra special.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good), store the fried rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an easy lunch or dinner option the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze the rice for longer storage by portioning it into freezer-safe containers or bags. When properly sealed, it’s good for up to one month. Just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain the best texture.

Reheating

Reheat the fried rice in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of water or soy sauce if the rice feels dry. Microwaving works too, but the skillet method helps regain that freshly fried texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use fresh rice instead of day-old rice?

Freshly cooked rice tends to be too moist and sticky for frying, which can result in a gummy texture. Using day-old rice that has been chilled allows the grains to firm up, giving you that perfect fried rice consistency.

How spicy is this recipe with the chili oil?

The heat level depends on how much chili oil you add and whether you use a mild or extra spicy version. Start with a small drizzle and adjust to your preference—it’s very easy to increase the kick gradually.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the oyster sauce or replace it with a vegetarian mushroom sauce alternative. Eggs can remain as they add great protein, or you can substitute tofu for a fully vegan version.

What kind of vegetables work best in this fried rice?

Frozen mixed vegetables are convenient and work well, but fresh diced carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers, or snap peas all make excellent colorful additions that contribute both texture and nutrition.

Is homemade chili oil necessary for this recipe?

Not at all! Store-bought chili oil works wonderfully and saves time. Homemade chili oil adds a personal touch if you want to experiment with spice blends, but both options bring that essential spicy flavor that sets this recipe apart.

Final Thoughts

Trying out this Easy Garlic Fried Rice with Chili Oil in 15 Minutes! Recipe is guaranteed to become a fast favorite in your kitchen for its unbeatable combination of speed, flavor, and comfort. Whether you are cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish is so versatile and delicious that it feels like a special treat every time. So grab those simple ingredients, turn up your stove, and let the rich aroma of garlic and chili oil fill your home—you won’t regret it!

Easy Garlic Fried Rice with Chili Oil in 15 Minutes! Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need