Introduction
Crispy Bacon Fried Rice is the perfect dish when you crave something hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. This quick and satisfying meal combines smoky, crispy bacon with fluffy rice, savory seasonings, and optional veggies for an added nutritional boost. Whether you’re using leftover rice or making it fresh, this dish delivers bold flavors and a delightful texture in every bite.
Ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or even a quick lunch, this bacon fried rice is a foolproof recipe that anyone can master. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable—you can add vegetables, swap ingredients, or enhance the flavors with extra seasonings. In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to make the best crispy bacon fried rice at home, along with pro tips, variations, serving ideas, and storage methods.
Why You’ll Love Crispy Bacon Fried Rice
- Crispy and Flavorful – The crispy bacon adds an irresistible crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 15 minutes, making it a perfect last-minute meal.
- Great for Leftovers – A fantastic way to use up day-old rice and any extra veggies in your fridge.
- Customizable – Add proteins, veggies, or spices to tailor the dish to your taste.
- Satisfying & Comforting – A warm, savory dish that feels like a homemade treat.
Ingredients of Crispy Bacon Fried Rice
To make this crispy bacon fried rice, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bacon (chopped into small pieces)
- 2 cups of cooked rice (preferably chilled, day-old rice works best)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil (optional, for extra flavor)
Optional Add-Ins:
- ¼ cup frozen peas (for a hint of sweetness and color)
- ¼ cup chopped green onions (for garnish)
Tip: Using chilled, leftover rice is essential for preventing mushy fried rice. Freshly cooked rice can become too sticky when stir-fried.
Necessary Tools
Before you start cooking, make sure you have the right tools for the job:
- A large skillet or wok – Ensures even cooking and enough space to toss ingredients.
- A sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping the bacon and green onions.
- A spatula or wooden spoon – Helps stir the rice without breaking the grains.
- A small bowl – To mix seasonings or beat eggs if you’re adding them.
Ingredient Swaps and Additions
Want to customize your fried rice? Here are some ingredient swaps and additions to try:
- Swap Bacon for Other Proteins: Use turkey bacon, pancetta, ham, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Add More Veggies: Stir in diced carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
- Make It Spicy: Add a teaspoon of sriracha, red pepper flakes, or diced chili for heat.
- Boost the Protein: Stir in scrambled eggs, shrimp, or shredded chicken.
- Lower the Sodium: Use low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1: Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Once crispy, remove bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease.
- Keep the bacon drippings in the pan for extra flavor.
2: Stir-Fry the Rice
- Add chilled, day-old rice to the same pan with bacon drippings.
- Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
- Cook until the rice is heated and slightly crisped.
3: Season the Rice
- Pour in soy sauce, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Stir to evenly coat the rice, cooking for another 1-2 minutes.
4: Add Peas and Bacon (Optional)
- If using frozen peas, add them now and cook for 2 minutes.
- Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir to distribute evenly.
5: Finish with Sesame Oil and Garnish
- Drizzle with sesame oil for a nutty aroma.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Chilled, Day-Old Rice – It prevents stickiness and helps achieve that restaurant-style texture.
- Cook Bacon First – This ensures the best crunch and flavor infusion.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Too much rice will steam rather than crisp up.
- Use High Heat – This helps fry the rice quickly, giving it a crispy texture.
- Stir Frequently, But Not Constantly – Let the rice sit for a few seconds between stirs to develop crispy bits.
Serving Suggestions
Crispy bacon fried rice is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it by pairing it with:
🍗 Grilled Chicken – A perfect protein-packed side.
🥢 Spring Rolls – Adds a crunchy contrast.
🥚 Fried Egg on Top – For an extra layer of richness.
🥗 Side Salad – Lightens up the meal.
🌶️ Chili Oil or Hot Sauce – For an added kick.
Storing and Reheating Crispy Bacon Fried Rice
How to Store:
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe bag.
How to Reheat:
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil.
- Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
- Oven: Spread on a baking sheet at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 12g
- Sodium: 580mg
FAQs – Crispy Bacon Fried Rice
❓ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the bacon for mushrooms, tofu, or tempeh for a vegetarian version.
❓ What kind of rice works best?
Long-grain rice (like jasmine or basmati) works best for fried rice since it stays separate and fluffy.
❓ How do I keep my fried rice from being mushy?
Use day-old, chilled rice, and cook over high heat without stirring constantly.
❓ Can I use turkey bacon?
Yes! Turkey bacon is a leaner alternative that still provides great flavor.
❓ Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.
Conclusion
Crispy Bacon Fried Rice is an easy, satisfying dish that combines the best of smoky, crispy bacon with flavorful, well-seasoned rice. It’s a perfect way to use up leftover rice while creating a quick and delicious meal. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with your favorite sides, this dish will become a staple in your kitchen.
Looking for more easy meal ideas? Try out some of our other flavorful rice and stir-fry recipes!
