Dessert

Breakfast Fried Rice Recipe

ByMarina Montclair December 28, 2025December 28, 2025

Introduction

Breakfast fried rice is a delicious and satisfying twist on a classic morning meal. Packed with crispy bacon, fluffy scrambled eggs, and a colorful mix of vegetables, it’s an easy way to use leftover rice and start your day right.

A close-up of a bowl filled with fried rice showing three main layers: the bottom layer is white rice mixed with small tender pieces of yellow corn, bright green peas, and chopped light green scallions; the middle layer contains golden yellow scrambled eggs with a slightly crispy texture; the top layer has small, dark brown crispy bacon pieces scattered on top. A gold spoon is partially dipped into the rice, resting on the side of the white bowl, which sits on a white marbled surface. The photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

6 slices bacon (chopped)
4 large eggs
¼ tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp ground pepper
2 tbsp butter
1 medium white onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
3 cups cold cooked rice
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tsp toasted sesame oil
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
½ cup frozen corn
4 green onions (sliced)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a plate with paper towels and set aside for draining the bacon later.
Step 2: Place chopped bacon in a cold 12-inch skillet or wok and heat over medium. Cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until crisp and fat is rendered, about 10 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on the prepared plate.
Step 3: Meanwhile, crack the eggs into a bowl. Season with kosher salt and ground pepper, then lightly beat with a fork.
Step 4: Drain all but 2 tablespoons of bacon fat from the skillet. Add the eggs and swirl to coat the bottom. Cook 1–2 minutes until edges set, then gently scrape edges toward center to scramble. Continue cooking and scrambling until eggs are fully cooked but still soft. Remove eggs and set aside.
Step 5: Turn heat to medium-high and add butter to the skillet. Once melted and foaming, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5–6 minutes. Add garlic and cook, stirring constantly, until fragrant, about 1 more minute.
Step 6: Add cold cooked rice to the skillet and toss with the onion and garlic until well combined. Spread the mixture evenly in the pan and let it fry undisturbed for 4–5 minutes.
Step 7: Pour soy sauce over the rice, then loosen and stir the rice with a wooden spoon to incorporate the soy sauce. Add frozen peas, carrots, corn, and toasted sesame oil. Toss frequently until vegetables are warmed through and the rice looks dry.
Step 8: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the crispy bacon, scrambled eggs, and sliced green onions. Serve immediately with extra soy sauce if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old rice for the best texture, as freshly cooked rice can be too moist and sticky.
Swap bacon for diced ham, sausage, or tofu to customize the protein to your liking.
Add a splash of rice vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra flavor.
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and increase the vegetables or add mushrooms.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring often, or microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of water when reheating helps restore moisture.

How to Serve

A close-up view of a bowl filled with fried rice showing a mix of ingredients in layers. The bottom layer has lightly browned cooked rice mixed with small pieces of cooked onion. On top, bright yellow scrambled egg pieces sit unevenly scattered, along with small green peas, yellow corn kernels, chopped green onions, and orange carrot bits. Crispy, dark reddish-brown bacon pieces are placed on top, adding texture and color contrast. A golden spoon rests inside the bowl, partially submerged in the rice. The bowl is white and set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of cold rice?

Cold, day-old rice works best because it’s drier and prevents the dish from becoming mushy. If you only have freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry slightly before using.

Can I add other vegetables to this fried rice?

Yes, feel free to add your favorites like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach. Just adjust cooking times to ensure vegetables are tender and well incorporated.