Reheating fried rice can seem daunting, as overcooking it can make the rice soggy and mushy. However, with the right techniques and appliances, you can reheat fried rice so it’s just as delicious as when it was first cooked. Here are several methods for reheating fried rice using a microwave, oven, stove and air fryer.

Reheating Fried Rice in the Microwave

The microwave provides a quick and easy way to reheat fried rice. Here are the steps:

Instructions

• Place the fried rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Break up any large clumps so the rice can heat evenly.
• Cover the bowl loosely with a paper towel or microwave splatter guard. This allows steam to escape while heating.
• Microwave the rice in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until heated through. The time will depend on the amount of rice.
• Allow the rice to sit for 1 minute before serving. This lets the rice finish steaming.
• Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

The microwave can make fried rice soggy, so take care not to overheat it. Microwaving in short intervals with stirring helps prevent this.

Reheating Fried Rice in the Oven

The oven allows you to reheat fried rice gently and evenly without drying it out.

Instructions

• Preheat the oven to 300°F.
• Transfer the fried rice to an oven-safe baking dish. Break up any large clumps.
• Cover the dish loosely with foil. This traps in steam to help heat the rice.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Remove from oven, fluff with a fork and serve.

The indirect heat of the oven avoids overcooking the rice while warming it at the same time. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t dry out.

Reheating Fried Rice on the Stove

You can revive takeout fried rice on the stovetop with excellent results.

Instructions

• Heat 1 tsp oil in a skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
• Add the fried rice and break up any clumps with a spatula or wooden spoon.
• Cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is hot, about 5 minutes.
• Add a splash of water if the rice seems too dry. The steam will rehydrate it.
• Remove from heat and serve.

Stovetop reheating mimics the quick, high-heat way fried rice is prepared. This gives you rice with a freshly fried taste and texture.

Reheating Fried Rice in an Air Fryer

An air fryer makes it easy to reheat fried rice without oil or constant stirring.

Instructions

• Add the fried rice to the air fryer basket in an even layer. Don’t pack it down.
• Set the air fryer temperature to 350°F. Cook for 5 minutes.
• Stir the rice and cook 2-3 more minutes until heated through.
• Fluff with a fork and serve.

The air fryer gives you restaurant-quality fried rice with a hot, crispy texture in minutes. Experiment with times based on your air fryer model.

Common Questions About Reheating Fried Rice

Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about reheating fried rice:

How can I reheat fried rice without drying it out?

Use the oven or microwave with loose coverings to allow steam to reheating without drying out the rice.

What is the best way to reheat fried rice to get the authentic flavor?

Stovetop reheating mimics the quick tossing action used to make fried rice and gives an authentic, freshly fried taste.

Can I reheat fried rice in an instant pot or slow cooker?

Yes, both methods work well. Use the slow cooker on low or instant pot on low pressure setting to gently reheat the rice.

How long does reheated fried rice last in the fridge?

Reheated fried rice will keep 3-5 days refrigerated. Reheat any leftovers within that time.

Can I reheat fried rice from frozen?

Yes, allow frozen fried rice to thaw overnight in the fridge. Then reheat using the oven, stove or microwave.

How do I reheat fried rice without making it mushy?

Reheat fried rice in short intervals, fluffing with a fork between reheating. Avoid compacting the rice so moisture can escape as it heats.

Tips for Reheating Fried Rice

• Use a skillet or wok to reheat on the stovetop. The high heat helps recreate the crispy texture.
• Add a teaspoon of oil or butter to the pan before adding the rice. This prevents sticking.
• Break up any clumps of rice with a fork or spatula while reheating. This allows even heating.
• Stir the rice frequently while reheating to prevent burning or sticking.
• Add a splash of water or broth and let it steam for a minute if the rice seems dry.
• Keep the rice spread out in an even layer while reheating. Don’t compress it into a big clump.
• Reheat in batches if needed to avoid compressing the rice and making it mushy.
• Let the reheated rice rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This finishes the heating process.

Fried Rice Reheating Recipes

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1 Tbsp oil
• 1 egg, beaten
• 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 Tbsp soy sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add egg and scramble until just set, about 1 minute.
2. Add rice and break up any clumps with fork or spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
3. Add peas and carrots. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper.
5. Remove from heat and let sit for 2 minutes before serving.

Shrimp Fried Rice

Follow the same instructions but add pre-cooked shrimp with the peas and carrots. Omit egg for a seafood-only fried rice.

Spicy Korean Fried Rice

Add 1 tsp gochujang (Korean chili paste), 2 tsp sesame oil, and chopped green onions when reheating the rice. Garnish with more green onion.

Product Recommendations

Here are some specific appliance recommendations for reheating fried rice:

Microwave:

• Panasonic NN-SN936B – 1200W microwave with Inverter Technology for even heating
• Toshiba EM131A5C-BS – 1100W microwave with preset sensor cook menus

Oven:

• Oster TSSTTVMNDG Digital Large Capacity Toaster Oven – Convection baking for crispy rice
• Breville BOV800XL Smart Oven – Element IQ system for optimal heat distribution

Air Fryer:

• Cosori Air Fryer Max XL – 5.8qt capacity, 11 one-touch cooking functions
• Ninja AF101 Air Fryer – 4qt ceramic-coated nonstick basket

Stove:

• All-Clad Tri-Ply Stainless Steel Skillet – Aluminum core and stainless steel cooking surface
• Lodge Pre-Seasoned Cast Iron Skillet – Superior heat retention and distribution

Look for microwaves with inverter or sensor technology, convection ovens, large capacity air fryers, and skillets that promote even heating on the stove. High wattage for microwaves and stainless steel or cast iron for stovetops are also recommended.

Reheating fried rice is easy with the right techniques. Just be careful not to overcook it, which can lead to mushiness. Follow these tips for enjoying delicious fried rice again and again.