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Frozen Fried Rice in the Air Fryer in Under 15 Minutes!

Name: Frozen Fried Rice In The Air Fryer
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 12 ounces frozen fried rice (any flavor or brand); 1 teaspoon olive oil or cooking spray (optional); Optional toppings: fried egg, sliced green onions, soy sauce, or spicy mayo

Author: Laurie Fleming
Published: April 20, 2021

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Craving a quick and tasty meal? This frozen fried rice in the air fryer recipe cooks perfectly in the air fryer in under 15 minutes, giving you crispy, flavorful rice without the wait.

Crispy frozen fried rice cooked in the air fryer, served in a bowl

This Frozen Fried Rice recipe makes weeknight dinners a breeze, cooking perfectly in the air fryer in under 15 minutes.

Crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, it’s full of flavor and ready straight from freezer to plate, making it the ultimate quick, no-fuss meal.

Air fryer basket filled with golden, crispy frozen fried rice

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

Super quick: Ready in under 15 minutes from freezer to plate.
Crispy and flavorful: Air fryer gives perfect texture every time.
No prep needed: Uses frozen rice, so minimal effort required.
Versatile meal: Add proteins or veggies to customize your bowl.
Easy cleanup: One basket, no pots or pans to scrub.

If you are looking for some other great and delicious Trader Joe’s Products you can make in the air fryer, you can also make AIR FRYER TRADER JOE’S FROZEN NAAN BREAD, AIR FRYER TRADER JOE’S CAULIFLOWER PANCAKES, AIR FRYER TRADER JOE’S VEGETABLE BIRD’S NESTS and HOW TO MAKE TRADER JOE’S FROZEN FRENCH TOAST IN THE AIR FRYER.

Ingredients Needed

Frozen Fried Rice in the Air Fryer ingredients on kitchen table.

Frozen fried rice works for this recipe—whether it’s Korean barbecue chicken, classic chicken, beef, shrimp, or vegetable. The brand doesn’t matter either; I’ve used Bibigo, Trader Joe’s, InnovAsian, and PF Chang’s with great results.
Optional Toppings: Create your favorite creations, I love adding a fried egg, sliced green onions, a drizzle of soy sauce, or spicy mayo, but feel free to customize however you like, or eat it as it is, it’s your recipe!

How to Cook Frozen Fried Rice in Air Fryer

Frozen Fried Rice in the Air Fryer in Under 15 Minutes!

Step One: Preheat your air fryer to 360 degrees F (182°C) for 2-3 minutes.

Step Two: Break up any large clumps in the frozen rice by gently massaging the bag or separating the rice with a fork. If you add extra ingredients like protein or vegetables, prepare them now.

Step Three: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with a thin layer of oil. Pour the rice (and any add-ins) into the basket, spreading it into a single layer.

Step Four: Set the cook time for 8-10 minutes. Halfway through the cooking time, pull out the basket and give the rice a good shake or stir to ensure even cooking. If you add whisked eggs for a more “authentic” fried rice feel, this halfway point is a good time to pour them over and mix.

Step Five: Once the rice looks well-cooked and slightly crispy, transfer it to a serving bowl. Add any desired seasonings, sauces, or toppings, like soy sauce, sesame oil, or chopped scallions.

Golden, crispy frozen fried rice cooked in the air fryer

Frozen Fried Rice In Air Fryer Recipe Tips

Shake or stir halfway: Ensures even cooking and crispiness on all sides.
Don’t overcrowd: Give the rice space in the basket for optimal crisping.
Add oil if needed: A light spray of cooking oil helps enhance crunch and flavor.
Customize with add-ins: Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, vegetables, or tofu for a heartier meal.
Adjust time for quantity: Larger portions may need a few extra minutes for perfect texture.
Optional toppings: Fried egg, sliced green onions, soy sauce, or spicy mayo add extra flavor.

Storing And Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator: Store leftover cooked fried rice in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooked fried rice in portioned, airtight containers for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes, stirring halfway, or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips: Add a splash of water or soy sauce when reheating to restore moisture and flavor.

Golden, crispy frozen fried rice cooked in the air fryer basket

Frozen Fried Rice In The Air Fryer Recipe Faqs

Can I cook any brand of frozen fried rice? Yes! Chicken, beef, shrimp, vegetable, or Korean BBQ flavors all work well.

Do I need to thaw the rice first? No, you can cook it straight from frozen in the air fryer.

How do I get it crispy instead of soggy? Don’t overcrowd the basket and shake or stir halfway through cooking. A light spray of oil also helps.

Can I add extra vegetables or protein? Absolutely! Toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or extra veggies for a heartier meal.

How long does it take to cook? Typically 12-15 minutes, depending on the quantity and air fryer model.

How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5–7 minutes or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or soy sauce to restore moisture.

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