Gluten-Free Fried Rice Recipe

Let’s be honest, some nights the call of takeout is strong. But what if you could have a dish that’s even better, healthier, and on the table in about the same amount of time? This Gluten-Free Fried Rice is my absolute go-to for turning that “what’s for dinner?” panic into a triumphant, delicious victory. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug, packed with flavor and customizable to whatever you have lingering in your fridge.

Growing up, fried rice was our family’s favorite way to give leftovers a brilliant second act. I’ve since perfected a version that’s just as comforting but 100% gluten-free, so everyone can dig in without a worry. It’s the secretly-easy, always-impressive dish that never fails to bring smiles to the table.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Gluten-Free Fried Rice

• Weeknight Warrior: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s faster than waiting for delivery.
• Incredibly Adaptable: Got some lonely veggies or leftover protein? Toss them in! This recipe is a fantastic template for cleaning out the fridge.
• Family-Friendly Favorite: Even the pickiest eaters won’t be able to resist the savory, satisfying flavors.
• Healthier Homemade Goodness: You control the ingredients, making it a lighter and fresher alternative to the greasy takeout version.

Ingredients

For the Fried Rice:

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• 3 tablespoons avocado oil or sesame oil, divided
• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1/2 cup frozen peas, thawed
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups cooked and cooled jasmine rice (day-old rice is best!)
• 2 tablespoons gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (ensure it’s gluten-free)
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• 2 green onions, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Scramble the Eggs: Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until just cooked through. Transfer them to a clean plate and set aside.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the diced onion and carrot and cook for 4-5 minutes, until they begin to soften.
3. Add Aromatics: Stir in the peas and minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Combine and Sauce: Add the cooked, cooled rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Pour the gluten-free tamari, oyster sauce, and toasted sesame oil over the rice. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until everything is well combined and heated through.
5. Finish and Serve: Return the scrambled eggs to the skillet and add most of the sliced green onions. Give it one final good stir to incorporate. Garnish with the remaining green onions and serve immediately!

My Best Tips for Perfect Fried Rice

Here’s the secret they don’t always tell you: cold rice is non-negotiable. Using freshly cooked, warm rice will result in a mushy dish. Plan ahead by making a big batch of rice the night before, or spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool it down quickly. Also, don’t be shy with the heat! A hot skillet is what gives you those delicious, slightly crispy bits that make fried rice so good. If you’re looking for more ways to use that perfect batch of rice, check out our guide on how to cook rice flawlessly every time.

This recipe became a staple in my house after a particularly chaotic week where I had zero time to shop. I threw in some leftover ham and a handful of frozen corn, and my family declared it a keeper. It’s a reminder that the best meals often come from a little bit of creativity!

Easy Variations to Try

• Protein Power: Add diced cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu along with the veggies.
• Veggie Swap: Swap peas for edamame or throw in some finely chopped broccoli.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for a kick.

What to Serve With Your Fried Rice

This fried rice is a complete meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with simple sides. For a classic takeout-at-home experience, serve it alongside some easy gluten-free egg rolls or a light cucumber salad. It’s also fantastic with a simple protein like grilled chicken or salmon for a more substantial dinner.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I find the stovetop works best to maintain the texture—just warm it in a skillet over medium heat with a tiny splash of water or tamari. You can also use the microwave, but stir it every 30 seconds to heat it evenly.

Can I use a different type of rice?

Absolutely! While jasmine rice is classic, you can use any variety of long-grain white or brown rice. Just make sure it’s cooked and completely cooled beforehand for the best texture. Brown rice will add a lovely nutty flavor and extra fiber.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

It’s super easy! Simply omit the scrambled eggs and use a vegan oyster sauce alternative. You can add cubed tofu for a plant-based protein boost. For more inspiration, the FDA guidelines on vegan labeling can help you choose the right sauces.

What’s the best substitute for tamari?

If you don’t have gluten-free tamari, coconut aminos are a fantastic substitute. They’re a bit sweeter and less salty, so you might want to taste and adjust at the end. Regular soy sauce is not gluten-free, so stick with tamari or coconut aminos if you need to avoid gluten.

Can I freeze gluten-free fried rice?

You can, but the texture of the rice and vegetables may soften a bit upon thawing. For the best results, freeze it in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in a hot skillet, breaking it up as it cooks.

More Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this quick and easy dinner, you’ll definitely want to try my fuss-free Gluten-Free Pad Thai or this incredibly simple 30-Minute Teriyaki Chicken.

There you have it—a foolproof recipe for Gluten-Free Fried Rice that’s guaranteed to become a regular in your dinner rotation. It’s the perfect solution for a busy night, proving that a homemade, healthy, and utterly delicious meal is always within reach. I’d love to hear how yours turns out! Happy cooking!