Air Fryer Fried Rice

How to Make Air Fryer Fried Rice

Making fried rice in the air fryer is simple, but it yields a dish with all the savory, crispy goodness you crave. Follow these easy steps to make your own perfect Air Fryer Fried Rice.

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

1. Use cold, day-old rice if possible. Freshly cooked rice tends to be too sticky and can clump together, making it harder to achieve the desired texture. If you don’t have leftover rice, spread fresh rice out on a baking sheet and let it cool in the fridge for about 30 minutes.
2. Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. This ensures that each piece of rice gets crispy and evenly cooked in the air fryer.

Step 2: Preheat the Air Fryer

1. Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3-5 minutes. Preheating ensures that the air fryer reaches the right temperature for a crispy finish.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables (Optional)

1. Sauté the vegetables (if you’re using fresh ones like onion, garlic, or mushrooms) in a pan with a small amount of oil for a few minutes until softened and fragrant. This is optional, but it adds extra flavor and prevents undercooked veggies in your fried rice.
2. If you’re using frozen veggies, there’s no need to sauté them first—simply add them to the air fryer with the rice.

Step 4: Assemble the Fried Rice in the Air Fryer

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cold rice, sautéed vegetables (if used), and frozen mixed veggies.
2. Drizzle 1 tablespoon of olive oil over the rice mixture and stir to coat evenly. This helps the rice get crispy and golden brown in the air fryer.
3. Add the soy sauce and sesame oil (if using) and stir to incorporate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Cook in the Air Fryer

1. Transfer the rice mixture into the air fryer basket, spreading it out evenly. If you’re using a small air fryer, you may need to cook in batches to avoid overcrowding the basket.
2. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through to ensure even cooking. The rice should become golden, crispy, and slightly charred around the edges, which gives it that authentic fried rice texture.

Step 6: Add the Eggs (Optional)

1. If you’d like to add eggs, scramble them separately in a pan or microwave, then add them to the rice during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking. This ensures that the eggs cook through without overcooking and becoming rubbery.
2. Alternatively, you can mix the beaten eggs directly into the rice mixture before air frying. They’ll cook and set during the air fryer cooking time, infusing the rice with flavor.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

1. Once the rice is cooked and crispy, remove it from the air fryer and transfer it to a serving dish.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve immediately. You can also add a little extra soy sauce or sesame oil for additional flavor if desired.

Tips for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Rice

• Use Cold Rice: Day-old rice works best because it has had time to firm up and dry out a little, making it easier to crisp up in the air fryer.
• Don’t Overcrowd: Air fryers work best when there’s space for the hot air to circulate around the food. If you have too much rice in the basket, it can steam instead of crisping up. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Add Protein: To make the dish more filling, add some protein such as shredded chicken, shrimp, or tofu. Cook the protein ahead of time and toss it into the rice mixture before air frying.
• Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to use any vegetables you have on hand—bell peppers, peas, corn, or even spinach all work well in fried rice.
• Get Creative with Sauces: While soy sauce is traditional, you can experiment with different sauces like oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, or teriyaki sauce for a different flavor profile.

Why Air Fryer Fried Rice Works

The air fryer is the perfect appliance for making fried rice because it mimics the high heat and quick cooking time of a wok, allowing the rice to crisp up while still retaining moisture in the vegetables and proteins. By using less oil than traditional frying methods, you get a lighter version of the dish, without sacrificing flavor or texture.

Additionally, the air fryer’s circulating heat allows all the ingredients to cook evenly, giving you a consistently crispy, perfectly seasoned fried rice every time. It’s a great way to enjoy this favorite dish with less effort and fewer calories.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fried Rice is the ultimate combination of convenience and flavor. It’s quick, easy, and healthier than traditional fried rice recipes, yet just as satisfying. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover rice or want to make a fresh batch in no time, this recipe offers all the savory, crispy goodness you love—without the need for a wok or stovetop frying.

So next time you’re craving fried rice, skip the takeout and try making it at home in your air fryer. It’s a delicious, no-fuss meal that’s perfect for any occasion.