Fried rice is one of the most loved comfort meals across the world, but traditional versions often require day-old rice, a screaming-hot wok, constant stirring, and perfect timing. That’s where Easy Dump-and-Bake Fried Rice completely changes the game. This oven-baked method delivers all the familiar flavors of classic fried rice—savory, fluffy, and packed with mix-ins—without standing over the stove or managing multiple steps.

Designed for busy households, beginner cooks, and anyone who wants a reliable, hands-off dinner, this recipe uses simple pantry ingredients and one baking dish. Everything is mixed together raw, baked in the oven, then finished with eggs and seasonings for that unmistakable fried-rice taste.

This is not a shortcut that sacrifices flavor. In fact, baking allows the rice to absorb the seasoned broth evenly, creating perfectly cooked grains that aren’t mushy or greasy. Whether you’re feeding a family, meal-prepping for the week, or looking for a low-stress side dish, dump-and-bake fried rice earns a permanent spot in your rotation.

Why Oven-Baked Fried Rice Works

Traditional fried rice relies on high heat and quick evaporation to keep rice separate and fluffy. Oven-baked fried rice achieves the same goal using controlled, even heat. The rice cooks slowly in seasoned liquid, absorbing flavor without breaking down.

Because everything cooks together, the flavors meld beautifully. The soy sauce, garlic, sesame oil, and vegetables infuse the rice evenly, creating depth that usually takes multiple stovetop steps.

Most importantly, there’s no need for leftover rice, special equipment, or constant attention.

Ingredients

2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
1½ cups cooked chicken, diced (optional)
2 large eggs
2 green onions, sliced
Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Add uncooked rice, broth, soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, frozen vegetables, and cooked chicken to the dish.
Stir until evenly combined.
Cover tightly with foil and bake for 45 minutes.
Remove from oven, uncover, and fluff rice with a fork.
Push rice to the sides, creating a well in the center.
Crack eggs into the center and stir gently.
Return uncovered to oven and bake for 5–7 minutes until eggs are set.
Stir eggs through rice, season to taste, and garnish with green onions.

What Makes This Recipe Foolproof

Using the oven eliminates common fried rice problems like soggy grains, uneven cooking, or burnt bits. The covered bake ensures the rice steams properly, while the uncovered finish allows excess moisture to evaporate.

The egg cooks gently at the end, mimicking the soft scramble texture of classic fried rice without overcooking.

Tips for Best Results

Use long-grain rice for best texture.
Keep the dish tightly covered during the first bake.
Let the rice rest for a few minutes before fluffing.
Adjust soy sauce to taste depending on salt preference.

Variations and Add-Ins

Vegetarian: Skip chicken and use vegetable broth.
Shrimp Fried Rice: Add raw shrimp during the last 10 minutes of baking.
Ham or Bacon: Stir in cooked bacon or diced ham.
Spicy: Add chili garlic sauce or sriracha.
Brown Rice: Increase liquid and baking time by 15–20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Easy dump-and-bake fried rice works as:

A complete one-dish meal
A side for Asian-inspired mains
A meal-prep lunch option
A base for stir-fried vegetables or tofu

Why Families Love This Recipe

This dish feeds a crowd, reheats well, and adapts to whatever ingredients are on hand. It’s budget-friendly, kid-approved, and far less messy than stovetop fried rice.

Cultural Context

Fried rice originated as a way to use leftovers efficiently. This baked version honors that spirit by simplifying the process while maintaining the comforting flavors that make fried rice universally loved.

Final Thoughts

Easy Dump-and-Bake Fried Rice proves that convenience and flavor can coexist. With minimal prep, no special tools, and consistently excellent results, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and stress-free cooking. Once you try it, you may never go back to stovetop fried rice again.