Ready in 20 Minutes | Budget-Friendly | High-Protein Meal
Meet Your New Favorite Weeknight Dinner
Hey friend, let me introduce you to the fried rice recipe that’s about to become a permanent star in your dinner lineup: American Fried Rice. This isn’t just any rice dish—it’s a mouthwatering fusion of savory, sweet, and just the right amount of spice. Think warm, seasoned rice tossed with veggies, crispy ham, and sunny-side-up eggs. It’s a comfort classic with a fun, flavorful twist!
Whether you’re craving a quick high-protein meal, something easy after a long day, or a crowd-pleasing dish for a casual dinner party, this recipe delivers.
Why You’ll Love This American Fried Rice
✅ Quick & Easy Dinner Recipe
Ready in just 20 minutes with pantry staples. Perfect for busy weeknights!
✅ High-Protein Meal
With eggs, ham, and optional chicken or tofu, it’s packed with filling protein.
✅ Budget-Friendly & Family-Approved
Use what you’ve got—frozen veggies, leftover rice, and affordable sauces. Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
✅ Customizable
Spice it up with sriracha, swap in your favorite protein, or go vegetarian!
✅ Great for Meal Prep
Makes delicious leftovers for lunch the next day.
American Fried Rice Ingredients
This is where the magic begins! Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 cup frozen carrot, pea & corn medley, thawed
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp raisins (optional but adds a lovely sweetness!)
- 3 cups cooked rice (day-old is best)
- 4 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- ¾ tsp black pepper
- 4 sunny-side-up eggs, for topping
- 4 slices of ham, pan-fried until crispy
Optional Add-ins
- Cooked chicken, tofu, or shrimp
- A pinch of cayenne or chili flakes for spice
How to Make American Fried Rice
One skillet. One simple method. One insanely tasty dinner.
Step 1: Prep the pan
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add oil and swirl to coat.
Step 2: Sauté aromatics
Add diced onion and cook until soft (about 7 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 3: Toss in veggies & raisins
Add thawed veggie mix and raisins. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds.
Step 4: Add rice & seasonings
Stir in rice, breaking up any clumps. Add ketchup, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir until evenly coated.
Step 5: Let it crisp
Let the rice sit undisturbed for 3–5 minutes so it gets a little crispy on the bottom—yum!
Step 6: Garnish & serve
Top with fried ham slices and sunny-side-up eggs. Serve hot!
Recipe Tips & Tricks
- Use cold rice for the best fried texture—fresh rice tends to be too soft.
- Swap the protein to suit your needs—think ground beef, shrimp, or tofu.
- Want it spicy? Drizzle with sriracha or sprinkle red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat in a skillet for max flavor.
How to Serve It
🟢 With a side salad
🟢 Alongside grilled chicken or shrimp
🟢 With spicy mayo or chili oil on top
🟢 Next to roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans
FAQ: Let’s Answer Your Questions
Can I use freshly cooked rice?
Technically yes, but chilled rice works best to avoid sogginess.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Absolutely—just skip the ham and eggs or use plant-based versions.
Can I freeze this fried rice?
Yes! Freeze without eggs, then fry fresh eggs when serving.
How do I reheat leftovers?
Use a pan over medium heat for best texture. Microwaving can make it soft.
Can I add meat like ground beef or chicken?
Totally! This recipe is one of those quick and easy dinner recipes with ground beef alternatives too.
Pin This American Fried Rice Recipe
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Recipe Card
The Ultimate American Fried Rice
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5 mins | 15 mins | 20 mins | 4 |
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 cup frozen veggie mix (carrot, pea, corn)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tbsp raisins
- 3 cups cooked rice (cold or day-old)
- 4 tbsp ketchup
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce
- ¾ tsp black pepper
- 4 sunny-side-up eggs
- 4 slices ham, fried until crispy
Instructions
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion for 7 mins; add garlic and cook 30 secs.
- Stir in veggies and raisins; cook briefly.
- Add rice, ketchup, soy sauce, and pepper. Stir to coat.
- Let rice crisp in pan for 3–5 mins.
- Top with eggs and ham. Serve hot!
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories: 380 | Protein: 12g | Carbs: 50g | Fat: 16g | Fiber: 3g
Final Thoughts
American Fried Rice is the kind of dish that feels nostalgic and new at the same time. It’s bold, cozy, and crazy good. Whether you’re meal-prepping, feeding your family, or cooking for one, this high-protein, quick dinner recipe fits the bill. Go ahead—grab your skillet and make magic happen tonight.
