Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings the taste of Asian cuisine right to your home kitchen. Tender, succulent shrimp are stir-fried with rice, vegetables, and a savory blend of soy sauce and seasonings to create a perfectly balanced meal. This dish is versatile, easy to make, and perfect for using leftover rice. Its combination of protein, vegetables, and rice makes it a complete and filling dish that’s ideal for lunch or dinner.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s fast, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. The shrimp cook quickly, the vegetables add freshness and crunch, and the rice soaks up all the delicious flavors from the soy sauce and aromatics. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish that tastes like takeout but is healthier and made at home.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

This is a must-try dish because it combines convenience, nutrition, and bold flavors in one pan. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, Shrimp Fried Rice is a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal ingredients and effort. The balance of shrimp, rice, and vegetables makes it a versatile dish suitable for weeknight dinners or quick meal prep.

Preparation Time, Cooking Time, Servings, and Nutrition

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Approximate Calories: 350–400 calories per serving
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old, chilled)
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mix
• 2 eggs, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, sliced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Optional: chili flakes or sriracha for spice

Cooking Directions

Cook shrimp and vegetables, scramble the eggs, combine with rice, add soy sauce and seasonings, and stir-fry until hot and evenly mixed.

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Add shrimp, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Step 4: Add frozen peas and carrots and cook for another 2–3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Push vegetables to one side of the pan and pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble until fully cooked.
Step 6: Add the cooked rice and shrimp back into the pan. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir-fry everything together for 3–4 minutes until heated through and evenly coated.
Step 7: Add sliced green onions and mix well. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional soy sauce as needed.
Step 8: Serve hot directly from the pan.

How to Serve This Recipe

Serve Shrimp Fried Rice hot in bowls or plates. Garnish with extra green onions, sesame seeds, or a drizzle of sriracha for spice. It pairs well with spring rolls, steamed vegetables, or a light soup.

Recipe Tips

• Use day-old rice to prevent clumping and achieve a better fried rice texture.
• Do not overcrowd the pan; cook shrimp in batches if needed.
• Use high heat to get that slight “wok hei” flavor.
• Customize vegetables according to preference, such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas.

Variations

Chicken Fried Rice: Replace shrimp with diced chicken breast or thigh.
Vegetarian Fried Rice: Omit shrimp and add tofu or extra vegetables.
Spicy Fried Rice: Add chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes.
Pineapple Fried Rice: Add pineapple chunks for a sweet-savory variation.
Cauliflower Fried Rice: Substitute rice with grated cauliflower for a low-carb version.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer Storage: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large skillet or wok
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board

Conclusion

Shrimp Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and versatile dish that combines protein, vegetables, and rice in a savory, satisfying meal. Easy to prepare and full of bold flavors, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a comforting lunch. This classic fried rice recipe is sure to become a favorite in your weekly rotation.