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Air Fryer Fried Rice Recipe

Air Fryer Fried Rice is an easy way to turn leftover rice into a flavorful meal with vegetables, scrambled eggs, and a savory soy-based sauce. The air fryer heats the ingredients evenly while giving the rice a lightly toasted texture without requiring constant stirring at the stove.
This simple recipe comes together with cooked rice, frozen vegetables, and a few pantry seasonings. It makes a convenient lunch, quick weeknight dinner, or side dish to serve alongside your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Cuisine Asian-inspired
Servings 4 servings
Calories 285 kcal

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Air fryer-safe baking dish or metal pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Fork or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked and chilled white rice
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots thawed
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup finely chopped green onions
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic
  • ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon salt or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Rice: Use cold, cooked rice for the best texture. Break up any large clumps with a fork so the grains are separated. If using freshly cooked rice, spread it on a tray and let it cool completely before preparing the recipe.
  • Mix the Seasonings: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, vegetable oil, minced garlic, black pepper, and salt until combined.
  • Combine the Ingredients: Place the chilled rice in a large mixing bowl. Add the peas and carrots, half of the chopped green onions, and the prepared sauce. Toss gently until the rice and vegetables are evenly coated.
  • Prepare the Air Fryer Dish: Transfer the rice mixture to an air fryer-safe baking dish or metal pan that fits inside your air fryer. Spread it into an even layer, leaving enough room for heat to circulate.
  • Air Fry the Rice: Preheat the air fryer to 350°F if your model requires it. Place the dish inside and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring halfway through so the rice heats evenly.
  • Prepare the Eggs: While the rice cooks, crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk until smooth. Lightly grease a small air fryer-safe dish, pour in the eggs, and cook at 320°F for about 4–6 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until fully set. Alternatively, scramble them in a lightly oiled skillet.
  • Combine and Finish Cooking: Break the cooked eggs into small pieces and fold them into the fried rice. Return the dish to the air fryer for another 2–3 minutes, until everything is heated through.
  • Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish carefully and sprinkle the remaining green onions and sesame seeds over the rice. Serve hot as a main dish or alongside your favorite vegetables or protein.

Notes

  • Use chilled rice: Day-old rice works especially well because it is drier and less likely to become mushy during cooking.
  • Choose the right dish: Use a shallow, air fryer-safe pan that allows the rice to heat evenly. Avoid filling it too deeply.
  • Break up rice clumps: Separate the grains before adding the sauce to help distribute the seasonings evenly.
  • Adjust the sauce: Add another teaspoon of soy sauce if you prefer a stronger savory flavor. Taste before adding extra salt.
  • Add protein: Cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or diced ham can be mixed into the rice before air frying.