Air Fryer Fried Rice: Crispy, Flavorful, and Easy to Make!

Introduction

Fried rice is one of those universally loved dishes that brings comfort, flavor, and versatility to the table. Traditionally cooked in a wok or skillet, fried rice has evolved from a simple way to use up leftover rice into a beloved meal in its own right. Whether enjoyed as a side dish or a main course, its combination of fluffy rice, vegetables, savory sauces, and optional proteins is hard to resist.

But have you ever thought about making fried rice in an air fryer? It might sound unconventional, but it’s surprisingly effective and results in rice that’s crispy in places, packed with flavor, and beautifully golden without the need for excessive oil. In this article, we’re diving deep into how to make Air Fryer Fried Rice, complete with tips, variations, and a foolproof step-by-step recipe.

With a prep time of under 10 minutes and minimal cleanup required, this is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So get your spatulas (or rather, your air fryer baskets) ready, because this air fryer fried rice recipe is about to become your new go-to.

Why Make Fried Rice in the Air Fryer?

Let’s take a moment to appreciate why the air fryer is a game changer when it comes to making fried rice:

Crispy Texture: The circulating hot air ensures that the rice gets slightly crispy on the edges while staying fluffy in the middle.
Less Oil: Traditional fried rice requires a fair amount of oil for that signature “fried” taste. The air fryer accomplishes this with much less.
Hands-Free Cooking: Once it’s in the air fryer, there’s no need to hover over the stove, making it more convenient.
Fewer Dishes: No need for a wok or large frying pan — just your air fryer basket and a bowl or two.
Customizable: You can tailor it to your taste — vegetarian, meat-lovers, or even breakfast-style fried rice.

Ingredients for Classic Air Fryer Fried Rice

Here’s a simple base recipe that you can customize to your liking. This serves 4 people generously.

Base Ingredients:

2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old jasmine or basmati)
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, green beans – frozen or fresh)
½ onion, finely diced
2–3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, for depth)
1 teaspoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for coating the rice)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Add-ins:

1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, pork, or tofu (cut into small pieces)
1 teaspoon chili flakes or sriracha (if you like it spicy)
Pineapple chunks for a Hawaiian twist
Cashews or peanuts for crunch

Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Fried Rice in an Air Fryer

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

The key to perfect fried rice is using cold, day-old rice. Fresh rice tends to be too moist and will turn mushy when air fried.

If you don’t have leftover rice, you can quickly cook it, spread it on a tray, and chill it in the fridge or freezer for 20–30 minutes before using.

Step 2: Mix the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together:

2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce (optional)
1 tsp sesame oil
Add a pinch of black pepper or chili flakes

Set this aside.

Step 3: Toss the Rice

In a large mixing bowl:

Add the cold rice.
Pour in the sauce and toss well to coat every grain.
Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to help crisp it up in the air fryer.
Mix in the vegetables, diced onion, and minced garlic.
(Optional) Add your protein of choice (pre-cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, etc.).

Step 4: Preheat the Air Fryer

Preheat your air fryer to 360°F (180°C) for about 3–5 minutes.
Lightly spray the basket with oil or use parchment paper designed for air fryers to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Air Fry in Batches (if needed)

Spread the rice mixture in a thin, even layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd — you may need to cook in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.

Step 6: Cook the Fried Rice

Air fry at 360°F (180°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket or stirring halfway through.
For extra crispy bits, air fry for an additional 2–3 minutes at 380°F.

Step 7: Scramble the Eggs

While the rice is cooking:

In a nonstick pan, scramble the eggs until just cooked. Or,
You can crack and scramble the eggs into a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Once done, mix the scrambled eggs into the rice after it’s finished cooking.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the rice to a serving bowl.
Garnish with chopped green onions and a drizzle of extra soy sauce or sriracha if desired.
Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Fried Rice

Use Day-Old Rice: Freshly cooked rice has too much moisture. Day-old rice gives that separated, firm texture fried rice is known for.
Oil Lightly but Evenly: Use just enough oil to coat the rice to help with crisping. Don’t drench it — too much oil can cause sogginess.
Toss Halfway: Stir or shake the basket halfway through cooking to ensure even browning.
Watch the Timing: Every air fryer is a little different. Start with the lower time and add a few minutes if needed.
Add Sauces at the End: If you want a glossy finish, drizzle additional sauce right before serving.
Batch Cooking: Avoid overloading the air fryer. Two thin batches are better than one thick one.

Variations to Try

1. Vegetarian Fried Rice

Skip the eggs and meat. Load up with mushrooms, bell peppers, edamame, and zucchini.

2. Pineapple Fried Rice

Add pineapple chunks and cashews for a Thai-inspired twist. Pair it with a splash of fish sauce for depth.

3. Breakfast Fried Rice

Use bacon or sausage, toss in scrambled eggs, and serve with hot sauce on top. Perfect for brunch!

4. Kimchi Fried Rice

Stir in ½ cup of chopped kimchi and a teaspoon of gochujang paste for a spicy Korean flair.

5. Shrimp Fried Rice

Use pre-cooked shrimp, and toss in peas and green onions for a classic combo.

Nutritional Information (Estimated Per Serving)

Calories: ~300–350
Protein: 10–15g (more if you add meat)
Carbohydrates: ~40–45g
Fat: 8–10g
Fiber: 3–4g
Sodium: ~500–700mg depending on sauce usage

You can make this dish even healthier by using low-sodium soy sauce, skipping the oyster sauce, and loading it with more veggies.

Cleaning Up After Air Fryer Fried Rice

Air fryer cleanup is relatively easy:

Let the basket cool completely before cleaning.
Soak the basket in warm, soapy water if bits are stuck.
Use a soft brush to scrub if needed (avoid abrasive materials).
If you used parchment paper, cleanup is even faster!

Serving Suggestions

Air fryer fried rice is great on its own but pairs wonderfully with:

Air Fryer Egg Rolls
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Spicy Tofu Stir Fry
Steamed Dumplings
Crispy Spring Rolls
Cucumber Salad with sesame dressing

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I cook raw meat in the rice?

It’s best to use pre-cooked meat. If using raw meat, cook it separately to ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature.

Can I use brown rice?

Absolutely! Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled beforehand.

Can I skip the eggs?

Yes, you can skip or substitute them with scrambled tofu for a vegan option.

Can I make it in one batch?

Only if your air fryer basket is large enough. The rice needs to spread out in a thin layer to crisp up.

What if I don’t have sesame oil?

You can leave it out or substitute it with a small amount of peanut oil or just regular cooking oil. But sesame oil adds a wonderful depth and toasted flavor.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Fried Rice is a delicious, easy, and healthier alternative to traditional stir-fried rice. With its crispy texture, rich umami flavors, and versatility, it’s a dish that can adapt to your pantry and preferences. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, using up leftovers, or just craving a comforting bowl of fried rice without all the oil, this air fryer method will not disappoint.

The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and customizability. In under 20 minutes, you can whip up a meal that’s restaurant-quality — no wok required! Whether you’re a seasoned air fryer fan or just getting started, this fried rice recipe is one you’ll turn to again and again.

So next time you’re wondering what to do with that leftover rice, don’t reach for the frying pan — reach for your air fryer. Crispy, flavorful, and fuss-free, this Air Fryer Fried Rice is the perfect quick meal you didn’t know you needed.