Easy Shrimp Fried Rice

Skip the takeout tonight and whip up this Easy Shrimp Fried Rice in your own kitchen. With plump, tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and fresh vegetables all coated in a savory Asian-inspired sauce, this dish brings restaurant-quality flavors right to your dinner table in just 23 minutes.

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Perfect for busy weeknights or whenever those Chinese food cravings hit, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into something special. The secret lies in using chilled rice and cooking each component separately to achieve that authentic taste and texture you love from your favorite takeout spots.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in under 25 minutes for a perfect weeknight meal
• Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
• Customizable with your favorite vegetables
• Perfect way to use up leftover rice
• Restaurant-quality results with minimal effort

What is Shrimp Fried Rice?

Shrimp fried rice is a popular Asian dish where cooked rice is stir-fried with shrimp, vegetables, eggs, and savory seasonings. The key to great fried rice is using chilled, day-old rice which helps achieve that perfect texture.

Ingredients

Proteins

• Frozen shrimp – Thawed and chopped. Look for medium-sized shrimp that are deveined for easier prep.
• Large eggs – Adds protein and creates those beloved fluffy egg pieces throughout.

Vegetables

• Frozen peas – No need to thaw, they’ll cook quickly in the hot pan.
• Carrots – Finely diced for quick cooking and even distribution.
• White onion – Creates a savory base flavor.
• Green onions – Used in two stages for both cooking and garnish.

Aromatics & Seasonings

• Fresh ginger – Finely minced for a bright, zesty kick.
• Garlic powder – Adds depth to the dish.
• Sea salt and black pepper – Season to taste.

Other Essentials

• Unsalted butter – Used in stages for cooking different components.
• Cooked rice – Must be chilled for best results.
• Toasted sesame oil – Provides that authentic Asian flavor.
• Tamari or coconut aminos – Adds umami and seasoning.

Grab the full ingredients details and instructions in the recipe card below!

Substitutions and Additions

• Rice: Try brown rice or cauliflower rice for a healthier option
• Protein: Swap shrimp for chicken, tofu, or extra eggs
• Vegetables: Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or corn
• Sauce: Use soy sauce instead of tamari if not gluten-sensitive

Instructions

Cook the eggs in butter until just set, then transfer to a bowl

Quick-cook shrimp until just pink, add to eggs

Sauté vegetables with aromatics until crisp-tender

Add rice and seasonings, then combine with eggs and shrimp

Heat through and serve with extra green onions

Recipe Tips

• Use day-old rice for best results – freshly cooked rice will be too sticky
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – they’ll finish cooking when added back to the pan
• Cut all vegetables to similar sizes for even cooking
• Have all ingredients prepped before starting – this recipe moves quickly

Serving Suggestions

• Crispy Parmesan Crusted Artichokes add a great crunchy side
• Pair with Garden Fresh Salsa Verde for extra zing
• Serve alongside Air Fryer Onion Rings for a fun fusion meal

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water, or microwave until hot throughout.

Recipe FAQ

Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?

Yes! Just make sure they’re peeled and deveined before cooking.

Why use cold rice?

Cold rice prevents clumping and helps achieve that perfect fried rice texture.

How can I make this spicier?

Add sriracha sauce or red pepper flakes to taste.