Name: So Easy Yet Delicious Shrimp Fried Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked white rice (day-old works best); 2 tablespoons oil; 1 1/2 cups frozen peas and carrots (thawed); 1 onion, chopped and diced; 1 tablespoon minced garlic; 1 cup frozen shrimp, peeled and deveined; 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 teaspoon sesame oil

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Okay, let’s be real: who doesn’t love a quick and tasty meal that’s ready in a flash? If you’re craving something satisfying and packed with flavor, this So Easy Yet Delicious Shrimp Fried Rice is the recipe you’ve been waiting for! Imagine fluffy rice stir-fried with juicy shrimp, vibrant veggies, and a hit of savory sauce that will have you coming back for seconds. It’s an irresistible dish that you can whip up in no time, and trust me, it’s going to be a weeknight winner in your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love So Easy Yet Delicious Shrimp Fried Rice

This dish is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. Whether you’re feeding the family, impressing friends, or just making something comforting for yourself, this shrimp fried rice is sure to hit the spot. Here’s why this recipe is a must-try:

Versatile: This dish is a total chameleon. It can be made for a quick dinner, served at a party, or packed as a lunch. You can even add extra veggies or swap in different proteins depending on what you have on hand.
Budget-Friendly: Even though shrimp might feel fancy, this fried rice uses pantry staples, making it an affordable option that feels indulgent without the price tag.
Quick and Easy: In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a bowl full of tasty fried rice that’s both hearty and flavorful. Plus, it’s super easy to make, even for beginners!
Customizable: You can make it as mild or as bold as you like. Add chili flakes for a bit of spice, or toss in some extra garlic if you’re craving that extra punch of flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing: Who doesn’t love fried rice? This dish is perfect for family dinners, get-togethers, or meal prep. The whole table will devour it in no time!

Ingredients

Let’s talk ingredients! Here’s what you’ll need to make this shrimp fried rice absolutely mouthwatering:

Shrimp: The star of the dish! Tender, juicy shrimp add that perfect pop of seafood flavor. Be sure to peel and devein them for an easy bite.

Rice: The base of any fried rice! Use cold, day-old rice if you can, as it holds its shape better and makes the fried rice a bit more fluffy.

Vegetables: A colorful medley of veggies like peas, carrots, and bell peppers brings freshness and crunch. You can also add any veggies you have in the fridge for extra flavor and texture.

Garlic and Onion: These aromatic ingredients will add depth and flavor to the fried rice. Plus, the smell as they sizzle in the pan is enough to make anyone’s stomach growl!

Soy Sauce: The secret to that savory umami flavor. It’s what gives the fried rice that signature deliciousness and richness.

Sesame Oil: For a nutty and slightly smoky flavor, a dash of sesame oil is a must. It brings everything together!

Eggs: Scrambled eggs give the rice that perfect creamy bite and add a little extra protein. They’re a must-have in fried rice!

Green Onions: A pop of fresh flavor, green onions are great for garnish and add a little zing to the dish.

(Note: The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Alright, now it’s time to bring it all together! Here’s how to make this flavorful fried rice:

Cook the Shrimp:

Start by cooking your shrimp. Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until they’re pink and cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set them aside.

Cook the Veggies:

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Toss in your chopped onion, garlic, and any other veggies you’re using (carrots, peas, bell peppers, etc.). Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, until they’re tender but still vibrant and crunchy.

Scramble the Eggs:

Push the veggies to one side of the pan and crack the eggs into the other side. Scramble them until fully cooked and then mix them in with the veggies.

Add the Rice:

Next, add your cold, day-old rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and toss everything together. Let the rice get a little crispy at the bottom for that delicious texture we all love in fried rice!

Season the Rice:

Drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil. Stir everything until well-coated, and let the flavors meld together for a minute or two.

Add the Shrimp Back:

Toss the cooked shrimp back into the pan with the rice and veggies. Stir to combine everything well and let the shrimp warm through.

Garnish and Serve:

Once everything is heated through, sprinkle with fresh chopped green onions and serve immediately! You’re ready to dig in and enjoy the best shrimp fried rice you’ve ever made.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve So Easy Yet Delicious Shrimp Fried Rice

This shrimp fried rice can easily be served as a meal on its own, but here are a few ideas to elevate your dining experience:

With a Side Salad: A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette will balance the rich flavors of the fried rice. A tangy cucumber salad also pairs wonderfully!
Asian-Inspired Sides: Pair it with spring rolls, dumplings, or even some crispy wontons for a fun, Asian-inspired meal.
As a Bowl Meal: Serve the fried rice in a big bowl, topped with extra green onions, a drizzle of soy sauce, or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
With a Dipping Sauce: For an extra burst of flavor, serve with a side of sweet chili sauce or soy sauce for dipping.

Additional Tips

Here are a few extra tips to help you perfect your shrimp fried rice:

Use Day-Old Rice: If possible, use leftover rice that’s been chilled in the fridge overnight. Fresh rice can be too soft and sticky for fried rice.
Keep the Heat High: Stir-frying is all about high heat. This ensures the rice gets that crispy texture, and the veggies stay crunchy and vibrant.
Customize the Veggies: If you have other vegetables on hand, feel free to mix them in! Broccoli, mushrooms, or snap peas would all work beautifully in this dish.
Add Extra Protein: Want more protein? Throw in some chicken, pork, or even tofu for a hearty addition.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan to get that crispy texture back!

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?

A1: Yes, absolutely! Fresh shrimp will work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to cook them properly until they’re pink and fully cooked through.

Q2: Can I use cooked rice instead of day-old rice?

A2: It’s best to use day-old rice for fried rice, as it’s drier and holds its shape better. Fresh rice can become too mushy, but if that’s all you have, just be sure to dry it out a little before adding it to the pan.

Q3: Can I make this dish ahead of time?

A3: Yes! You can prepare the rice and cook the shrimp ahead of time, then just stir-fry everything together when you’re ready to eat.

Q4: Can I make this vegetarian?

A4: Absolutely! Skip the shrimp and add extra veggies like mushrooms or tofu to make it a delicious vegetarian fried rice.

Q5: What if I don’t have sesame oil?

A5: If you don’t have sesame oil, you can substitute it with olive oil or vegetable oil. It won’t have the same nutty flavor, but it will still taste great.

Q6: Can I freeze this dish?

A6: Fried rice can be frozen! Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months.

Q7: How can I reheat the fried rice?

A7: Reheat the fried rice in a skillet over medium heat with a little oil. Stir frequently to get it hot and crispy again!

Q8: Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

A8: Yes, you can! Brown rice will give the fried rice a nuttier flavor and a bit more texture. Just make sure it’s fully cooked and slightly cooled before adding it to the pan.

Q9: Can I add more spice to this dish?

A9: Absolutely! Add a pinch of chili flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some fresh diced chili peppers for an extra kick.

Q10: Can I double the recipe?

A10: Yes! Just make sure you have a large enough pan or wok to accommodate all the ingredients. You may need to cook it in batches if your pan isn’t big enough.

Conclusion

This So Easy Yet Delicious Shrimp Fried Rice is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create something truly special. Quick, flavorful, and totally satisfying, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re making it for a busy weeknight or sharing it with friends, you’ll love how easy it is to customize and how incredible it tastes. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite of that crispy, savory goodness!