Easy Air Fryer Vegetable Fried Rice

Air fryer vegetable fried rice is a quick and easy way to turn leftover rice and fresh veggies into a flavorful meal. It cooks up fast, tastes just like your favorite takeout, and makes a perfect meatless dinner or simple side dish.

Skip the takeout and make your favorite fried rice at home in minutes with this Easy Air Fryer Vegetable Fried Rice.

Packed with colorful veggies, tender rice, and a savory sauce, it’s a quick, fuss-free meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe delivers all the flavor of restaurant-style fried rice without the extra oil or mess.

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

• Quick and fuss-free: Ready in under 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Packed with veggies: A colorful, nutrient-rich meal that’s good for you.
• Better than takeout: Crispy, flavorful rice without the heavy oil or extra sodium.
• Versatile and customizable: Add tofu, eggs, or your favorite protein for a heartier meal.
• Easy cleanup: The air fryer keeps things simple, with less mess than pan-frying.

Ingredients Needed

• Cooked white or brown rice: Fluffy cooked rice, chilled or room temperature preferred.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots, diced or thinly sliced for quick cooking.
• Peas: Sweet green peas, fresh or frozen, ready to go.
• Bell peppers: Colorful bell peppers, diced small for even cooking.
• Onion: Medium onion, finely chopped to add savory flavor.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic, minced for bold aromatic flavor boost.
• Soy sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce to season rice evenly.
• Sesame oil: Nutty sesame oil for flavor and light crispiness.
• Green onions: Chopped green onions for garnish and mild flavor.
• Eggs (optional): Beaten eggs for extra protein and texture.

Recipe Variations

• Grain Swap: Try brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.
• Spice It Up: Toss in sriracha, chili flakes, or a drizzle of chili-garlic sauce for heat.
• Veggie Mix-Up: Swap or add broccoli, zucchini, snap peas, or mushrooms for variety.
• Sauce Variations: Mix in teriyaki, hoisin, or oyster sauce for different flavor profiles.
• Nutty Crunch: Top with roasted cashews, peanuts, or sesame seeds for added texture.

How To Make Easy Air Fryer Vegetable Fried Rice

Step 1: Chop all your vegetables, carrots, bell peppers, onions, and any other veggies you like. If using eggs, beat them in a small bowl.

Step 2: Set the air fryer temperature to 360 degrees F (180°C) for 3-5 minutes. Toss the chopped carrots, bell peppers, onions, and garlic with a small drizzle of sesame oil. Place them in the air fryer basket and cook for 5-7 minutes, shaking halfway through, until tender-crisp.

Step 4: Add the chilled rice to the basket with the vegetables. Drizzle soy sauce and a little more sesame oil over the top. Toss everything gently to combine. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, shaking or stirring halfway through.

Step 5: If using eggs, create a small well in the rice and pour in the beaten eggs. Air fry for 2-3 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the eggs are fully cooked and incorporated.

Easy Air Fryer Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe Tips

• Use chilled rice: Day-old or chilled rice prevents clumping and gives the best texture.
• Cut veggies small: Uniformly chopped vegetables cook evenly in the air fryer.
• Don’t overcrowd the basket: Cook in batches if needed to ensure everything crisps properly.
• Customize flavors: Add garlic, ginger, or a splash of sesame oil for extra depth.
• Protein add-ins: Stir in tofu, shrimp, or scrambled eggs to make it a complete meal.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste before serving and add soy sauce, salt, or a pinch of pepper as needed.
• Garnish last: Sprinkle green onions or sesame seeds right before serving for freshness and crunch

Storing and Reheating Instructions

Storing: Let the fried rice cool completely before storing. Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the fried rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating:

• Air Fryer: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat the fried rice for 3–5 minutes, shaking halfway through for even warming.
• Stovetop: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat, add a small splash of oil, and stir-fry until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway, until hot.

Easy Air Fryer Vegetable Fried Rice Recipe Faqs

Can I use leftover rice? Yes! Day-old or leftover rice works best because it’s drier and prevents the fried rice from becoming mushy.

Can I use frozen vegetables? Absolutely. Just make sure to thaw or pat them dry to avoid excess moisture, which can make the rice soggy.

Can I make this vegan or vegetarian? Yes! Skip the eggs or use a tofu scramble to keep it plant-based.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.

How do I reheat it? Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–5 minutes, on the stovetop in a skillet with a splash of oil, or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes.

Can I add protein? Yes! Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, tofu, or scrambled eggs to make it a complete meal.

More Easy Air Fryer Recipes

• Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken
• Air Fryer Chinese Chicken Wings
• Frozen Dumplings or Pot-Stickers
• Air Fryer Chinese Buffet Crab Casserole Recipe
• Air Fryer Chinese Spare Ribs

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