Chili Crisp Eggs

Ah, the magic of chili crisp! There’s nothing quite like the combination of crunchy chili peppers, garlic and savory spices in this beloved hot sauce. When it comes to using up a jar of chili crisp that’s been hanging around the pantry, these chili crisp eggs are a go-to for Taste of Home editor Lindsay Mattison. The simple three-ingredient recipe puts this bold condiment in the spotlight, transforming ordinary eggs into a saucy, irresistible dish.

The eggs are fried in hot chili crisp with a touch of sesame oil. When you break into the runny yolks, they blend with the chili crisp to create a rich, creamy and perfectly spiced sauce to enjoy with each tender bite. The exact flavor will depend on the chili crisp brand you choose, which is part of the fun. Serve these eggs over hot rice, on toasted bread or even with noodles for a quick meal that feels anything but basic.

Ingredients for Chili Crisp Eggs

• Chili crisp: This is the signature flavor in this dish! It infuses the eggs with a mix of savory and spicy flavors and a crunchy texture, all in one spoonful. Check out our favorite chili crisp brands to find your perfect flavor match.
• Sesame oil: A drizzle of sesame oil adds a nutty aroma and flavor. A little goes a long way, so be sure to measure. If you’re not a fan, stick with olive oil or a neutral cooking oil.
• Eggs: The fresher your eggs, the more neatly the whites will set. Two large eggs make a satisfying meal for one or a lighter dish for two, and you can easily scale up the recipe in a larger skillet to feed a crowd.
• Serving suggestions: We love spooning these tender chili crisp eggs over a bowl of hot rice to soak up every drop of the chili crisp and yolk as they mix together. Sprinkle with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for fresh flavor and a little extra crunch.

Directions

Step 1: Sizzle the eggs

Crack each egg into a small bowl or ramekin to make them easier to slide into the pan.

Heat the chili crisp and sesame oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Gently pour in the eggs and sprinkle with salt. Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cook for two to three minutes until the whites are set and the yolks are runny.

Editor’s Tip: Prefer fried eggs with firmer yolks? Flip them for over-hard eggs, or cook for an extra minute or two.

Step 2: Garnish and serve

If desired, top the eggs with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Enjoy the eggs on their own or served over hot cooked rice. Don’t forget to spoon the chili crisp oil from the pan on top.

Recipe Variations

• Add cheese: Sprinkle a small handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella over the eggs during the last minute of cooking for a creamy, melty finish.
• Try a flavor boost: Saute a little minced garlic or grated gingerroot in the oil before adding the eggs for extra depth and aroma, or drizzle a little soy sauce or tamari over the eggs just before serving for added umami.
• Include some veggies: Toss a handful of baby spinach or sliced bok choy into the skillet to wilt, then add the eggs.
• For crispier eggs: Cook the eggs uncovered over slightly higher heat for lacy, crispy edges.

Can you store chili crisp eggs?

Chili crisp fried eggs are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, slide them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one day.

How do you reheat chili crisp eggs?

Gently warm chili crisp eggs in a covered skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave at reduced power. Take it slow to avoid overcooking the yolks and heat just until warmed through. If they look a little dry, add a small spoonful of fresh chili crisp to the eggs while reheating to keep them glossy and flavorful.

Chili Crisp Egg Tips

What’s the best pan for cooking chili crisp eggs?

The best pan for frying chili crisp eggs is a ceramic or nonstick skillet. It helps the whites set without sticking, so they slide right out of the pan.

How can you serve chili crisp eggs?

We recommend serving chili crisp fried eggs over hot cooked rice—white or brown works perfectly—and topped with fresh garnishes like sliced green onions and sesame seeds. You can also slide the saucy eggs onto toasted bread or avocado toast, or pile them over noodles to let the chili crisp and sesame oil double as a quick, flavorful sauce.

Can you adjust the spice level of eggs with chili crisp?

Absolutely! The spice level and flavor will depend on the brand of chili crisp, so it’s a good idea to taste a little before cooking if you just picked up a new jar. Add more or less chili crisp to suit your preference, or stir in a pinch of sugar or a squeeze of citrus to balance the heat.