Easy Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe | Quick & Flavorful Dinner

If you’re craving a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dinner, look no further than this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice! Packed with succulent shrimp, fluffy rice, colorful veggies, and a savory sauce, this dish is a perfect blend of comfort and taste. What makes this recipe extra special is how quickly it comes together—perfect for those busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want something delicious without a lot of effort. It’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re serving it as a main course or a side dish, this shrimp fried rice is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

What makes this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice so irresistible? First off, it’s a one-pan wonder! You get the satisfaction of a flavorful meal with minimal cleanup. Plus, it’s perfect for those days when you’re in the mood for something quick, yet still crave a restaurant-quality meal at home. 

The combination of tender shrimp, perfectly cooked rice, and savory stir-fry sauce is absolutely mouthwatering.

It’s also a flexible recipe! You can swap in different veggies based on what’s in season or your personal favorites. Want to make it spicier? Add a touch of sriracha. Need it gluten-free? 

Simply swap out soy sauce for tamari. The possibilities are endless, and it’s perfect for customizing to fit any dietary preference!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious shrimp fried rice:

• 2 cups cooked rice (preferably cold, leftover rice works best)
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 eggs, beaten
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional, but highly recommended)
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional add-ons: bell peppers, mushrooms, baby corn, or even pineapple for a sweet twist!

How To Make Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

Making shrimp fried rice is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps and you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time:

1. Prepare the rice: If you haven’t already, cook your rice and let it cool down. Day-old rice is ideal for fried rice because it’s firmer and less sticky. If you’re in a rush, spread the freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet for a few minutes to cool it faster.
   
2. Cook the shrimp: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Scramble the eggs: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and pour in the beaten eggs. Let them cook, stirring gently, until they’re just scrambled and lightly golden. Transfer the eggs to a plate and set aside.
   
4. Sauté the aromatics: Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan and toss in the garlic and onion. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion softens and becomes translucent. You’ll start to smell the savory aroma filling your kitchen!
   
5. Stir-fry the veggies: Add the frozen peas and carrots (or any other vegetables you’re using) to the pan. Cook for another 2 minutes, allowing them to heat through and absorb all the flavors.
   
6. Combine everything: Add the cold rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir everything together and make sure the rice is heated through. Now, add the cooked shrimp and scrambled eggs back into the pan.
   
7. Add the sauce: Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and sugar. Stir everything until it’s well coated in the savory sauce. Taste and adjust with a pinch of salt and pepper, if necessary.
   
8. Serve and garnish: Once everything is nicely mixed, sprinkle chopped green onions on top for that fresh, vibrant pop of flavor. Serve the shrimp fried rice hot, either in individual bowls or family-style for everyone to dig in!

Pro Tips

• Use day-old rice: Fresh rice can be too sticky and mushy, but cold rice (especially if it’s been sitting in the fridge for a few hours) is perfect for fried rice. It helps the grains stay separate and crisp up when stir-fried.
  
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly, so be careful not to overdo them. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery and lose their sweetness.
  
• Customize the veggies: While peas and carrots are classic, you can mix in any vegetables you like. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even corn are great additions.
  
• Add some heat: If you like a spicy kick, drizzle in some sriracha or add chili flakes while cooking.

How To Serve

Shrimp fried rice is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the experience with a few simple sides. Serve it alongside a refreshing cucumber salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some steamed edamame. 

You could also add a few slices of crispy, pan-fried spring rolls for extra crunch. Garnish with fresh cilantro, extra green onions, or a squeeze of lime to balance out the rich flavors.

If you’re serving it to a larger crowd, consider making a big batch and offering a mix of fried rice with different proteins, such as chicken or beef. This way, everyone can enjoy their favorite combination!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

A typical serving of shrimp fried rice (about 1 cup) has the following nutritional information:

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 20g
• Carbs: 45g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g

This recipe is also fairly low in calories, making it a great choice if you’re watching your diet but still want something satisfying. If you’re looking to make it even lighter, you can reduce the amount of oil and soy sauce or opt for cauliflower rice to cut down on carbs.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Shrimp fried rice makes fantastic leftovers! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

• Storing: Let the fried rice cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
  
• Reheating: To keep the rice from drying out, reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth. Cover it with a lid to trap the steam and heat through until hot.
  
• Freezing: If you want to freeze it, place the cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe container. It will stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat.

Conclusion

This Easy Shrimp Fried Rice is the perfect dinner solution for busy nights when you want something quick, tasty, and satisfying. With its combination of shrimp, rice, and savory sauce, it’s bound to be a hit with everyone at the table. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding the whole family, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Don’t forget to share your experience—let us know how it turned out and any fun twists you added to make it your own!

FAQ Section

Can I make this shrimp fried rice in advance?
Yes! You can make the fried rice a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it in a skillet before serving.

Can I use different vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms. This recipe is super customizable!

How do I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this shrimp fried rice gluten-free, simply use tamari instead of soy sauce. You can also skip the oyster sauce if you need to.