Shrimp Fried Rice

Shrimp Fried Rice is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies all cooked in a sizzling pan. The mix of soy sauce,…

By Willow • January 14, 2026 • Reading time: 6 min

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Shrimp Fried Rice is a quick and tasty dish that brings together tender shrimp, fluffy rice, and colorful veggies all cooked in a sizzling pan. The mix of soy sauce, garlic, and a little ginger gives it that classic fried rice flavor that everyone loves. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a filling meal with a bit of crunch and a pop of freshness from green onions and peas.

I love making shrimp fried rice when I want something fast but still feel like I’m treating myself. The best part is how easy it is to customize—sometimes I toss in scrambled eggs or swap out veggies depending on what’s in the fridge. Plus, using leftover rice makes it super simple and helps reduce waste.

My favorite way to serve this shrimp fried rice is right from the pan, with a little extra soy sauce on the side and maybe a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for a touch of heat. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or even packed up for lunch the next day. Every time I make it, I get excited because it’s a dish that just hits the spot and makes me feel right at home.

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Shrimp: Use medium shrimp peeled and deveined for quick cooking. If you prefer, you can swap shrimp with cooked chicken or tofu for a different protein.

Rice: Day-old jasmine rice works best because it’s dry and won’t turn mushy. If fresh rice is all you have, spread it out to cool so it dries slightly before cooking.

Vegetables: Carrots, peas, and green onions add color and crunch. You can use frozen mixed veggies or swap peas for snap peas, corn, or bell peppers.

Sauces: Soy sauce is a must for that salty, umami taste. Oyster sauce adds richness but is optional. For a vegetarian option, use mushroom stir-fry sauce or tamari instead.

Eggs: Scrambled eggs add a lovely texture and mild flavor. You can skip them or use tofu if you want a vegan version.

How Do I Get Perfect Fried Rice That’s Not Mushy?

The secret is using cold, cooked rice. Freshly cooked rice holds more moisture and can turn sticky or mushy when stir-fried. Follow these tips:

• Use leftover rice stored in the fridge overnight.
• If you cook fresh rice, spread it on a baking sheet and cool it to steam off moisture.
• Break up clumps before adding to the pan for even cooking.
• Cook on medium-high heat to quickly toss and fry the rice without steaming.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan – stir in batches if needed to keep everything moving.

Equipment You’ll Need

• Large skillet or wok – great for cooking on high heat and tossing ingredients evenly.
• Spatula or wooden spoon – helps you stir and mix without scratching your pan.
• Knife and cutting board – to chop veggies and green onions quickly and safely.
• Measuring spoons – make sure your soy sauce and oils are just right.

Flavor Variations & Add-Ins

• Swap shrimp for diced chicken or tofu to change up the protein.
• Add diced pineapple for a sweet, tangy pop that pairs well with soy sauce.
• Use chopped bell peppers or snap peas instead of carrots and peas for extra crunch.
• Sprinkle with crushed red pepper or drizzle sriracha if you like a little heat.

Shrimp Fried Rice

Ingredients You’ll Need:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably chilled)
• ½ lb medium shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup diced carrots
• ½ cup frozen peas
• 3 green onions, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced

For Seasoning:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral cooking oil)
• Salt and pepper to taste

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 10 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a delicious shrimp fried rice dish ready in about 20 minutes total.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Cook the Shrimp:

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, sprinkle with salt and pepper, and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 2 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.

2. Stir-fry Vegetables and Scramble Eggs:

In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Toss in the minced garlic and diced carrots, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes until the carrots begin to soften. Push the veggies to one side of the pan. Crack the eggs into the empty side and scramble them until fully cooked.

3. Add Rice and Combine Ingredients:

Add the chilled jasmine rice to the skillet. Break up any clumps with your spatula and stir-fry everything together until the rice heats through.

4. Mix in Peas and Shrimp:

Return the peas and cooked shrimp to the pan and stir to combine all the ingredients well.

5. Season the Fried Rice:

Pour soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and drizzle sesame oil over the rice mixture. Stir thoroughly to evenly coat all items with the sauces. Add most of the green onions and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

6. Serve:

Remove from the heat and transfer the fried rice to a serving dish. Garnish with the remaining green onions. Serve hot and enjoy your tasty shrimp fried rice!

Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?

Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for quicker defrosting. Pat them dry to avoid excess moisture.

What’s the Best Rice to Use for Fried Rice?

Day-old jasmine rice works best because it’s drier and less likely to clump. If you use freshly cooked rice, spread it out on a baking sheet to cool and dry before stir-frying to prevent sogginess.

Can I Make Shrimp Fried Rice Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave until warmed through.

How Can I Customize This Fried Rice?

Feel free to swap proteins like chicken, tofu, or pork. You can also add different veggies such as bell peppers, corn, or snap peas. For extra flavor, add a splash of sriracha or sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes.