30-Minute Panda Express Copycat Fried Rice
A homemade version of the popular Chinese-American fried rice served at Panda Express. This simple stir-fried rice combines fluffy scrambled eggs, tender peas and carrots, and savory soy sauce for an authentic takeout flavor. Perfect as a side dish for Asian meals or a quick weeknight dinner. The key to success is using day-old cooled rice and high heat for proper texture and separation of grains.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon salted butter
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 4 cups cooked long-grain rice, cooledjasmine rice1:1flavor
more aromatic
- 1 ½ cups frozen peas and carrotsfresh peas and carrots1:1texture
blanch briefly before adding
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 green onions, sliced
Instructions
- 1
Melt butter in large skillet or wok over low heat
- 2
Whisk eggs in small bowl, add to skillet and scramble over medium-low heat until cooked through, then transfer to plate
- 3
Heat vegetable oil in skillet over medium-high heat
- 4
Add rice and vegetables, saute for 1-2 minutes to combine
- 5
Mix soy sauce and sesame oil in small bowl, pour over rice mixture and continue cooking 8-10 minutes
- 6
Stir scrambled eggs back into skillet and warm through
- 7
Serve hot garnished with green onions
Tips
Use day-old rice that has been refrigerated for best texture and to prevent mushy grains
Cook eggs separately first to prevent them from becoming rubbery when mixed with other ingredients
Heat the pan well before adding rice to achieve the characteristic wok hei flavor
Good to Know
Refrigerate in airtight container for up to 5 days
Rice can be cooked 1-2 days ahead and refrigerated
Serve immediately while hot for best texture
Common Mistakes
Use cooled rice to avoid mushy texture
Cook eggs separately to prevent overcooking
Keep heat high during stir-frying to prevent sticking
Substitutions
Gluten-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
blanch briefly before adding
FAQ
Can I use freshly cooked rice instead of day-old rice?
Fresh rice will work but may be stickier. Spread hot rice on a sheet pan and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to cool and firm up before using.
What if I don't have sesame oil?
You can omit sesame oil but it adds authentic flavor. Substitute with a small amount of toasted sesame seeds or use all vegetable oil instead.
How long can I keep leftover fried rice?
Store covered in refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in microwave or skillet with a splash of oil until heated through.