The Ultimate Baked Fried Rice Recipe: A Cheesy, Crispy Delight

By Avi Green October 05, 2023

Craving something delicious thats easy to make and packed with flavor? Allow me to introduce you to the ultimate baked fried rice recipe. This dish takes all the best elements of traditional fried rice but jazzes it up by baking it to cheesy perfection. Whether you're an experienced home cook or a newbie in the kitchen, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite!

Ingredients for Baked Fried Rice Recipe:

4 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
1 cup shredded chicken (optional)
2 cups mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, etc.)
3 large eggs
2 cloves of garlic, minced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp oyster sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
1.5 cups shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
Salt and pepper to taste
2-3 green onions, chopped for garnish

Why Choose Baked Fried Rice?

The beauty of the baked fried rice recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. Unlike the traditional method that calls for constant stirring in a hot wok or skillet, this baked version allows you to toss everything together and let your oven do the work. The result is a dish that's crispy on the outside and wonderfully cheesy on the inside, with flavors that meld beautifully during baking. Moreover, baking it eliminates the need to use excessive oil, making it a healthier alternative to regular fried rice.

Things You'll Need:

Before you dive into the baked fried rice recipe, ensure you have the following basic cookware and utensils ready:

A rice cooker for perfectly cooked rice
A sharp knife for chopping vegetables
A sturdy cutting board for prepping your ingredients
An oven-safe baking dish

Preparation Steps:

Step 1: Cook Your Rice

Start by cooking 4 cups of rice. Ideally, use a rice cooker to achieve perfectly cooked rice every time. If you have leftover rice from the day before, even better! Day-old rice tends to hold up better and doesnt turn mushy when you mix it with other ingredients.

Step 2: Prep Your Ingredients

While your rice is cooking or warming up, prepare the other ingredients. Use a sharp knife and a cutting board to chop your vegetables and onions. Mince the garlic and set it aside. If youre including shredded chicken, make sure its pre-cooked and shredded.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, shredded chicken, mixed vegetables, minced garlic, chopped onion, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Mix everything thoroughly so that the sauces are evenly distributed. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Add the Eggs

In a smaller bowl, beat the three eggs until fully mixed. Pour this egg mixture into the large bowl with your rice and other ingredients. The eggs will help bind everything together, giving the baked fried rice its unique texture.

Step 5: Transfer to a Baking Dish

Lightly grease your oven-safe baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour the rice mixture into the dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the top.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375F (190C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese has melted and formed a golden-brown crust. The edges should be slightly crispy, adding to the delightful texture of the dish.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious baked fried rice recipe with family and friends!

Tips and Tricks:

Use Cold Rice: Cold or day-old rice works best for this recipe as it helps maintain the texture. Freshly cooked rice can be too soft and may turn mushy during baking.
Optional Protein: Feel free to add shrimp, beef, or tofu instead of chicken. The versatility of this dish means you can customize it to your liking.
Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost the vegetable content.
Spice It Up: If you like your food spicy, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of Sriracha sauce.

Why Baked Fried Rice is Perfect for Gatherings

Baked fried rice is an ideal dish for gatherings, family dinners, and potlucks. Its ease of preparation means you can spend more time socializing and less time in the kitchen. Additionally, the dish can be made in advance and reheated, making it convenient for those who like to plan ahead.

Healthier Than Traditional Fried Rice

By baking the rice instead of frying it, this recipe reduces the need for excess oil, making it a healthier choice without compromising on flavor. The inclusion of vegetables and lean protein also makes it a balanced meal option.

Cleaning Up

After enjoying your delicious baked fried rice recipe, its time to clean up. Ensure you take good care of your cookware and utensils to extend their lifespan. Use a reliable Cookware Cleaner for your baking dish and a quality Cutting Board Oil to maintain your cutting board in top condition.