Shrimp Fried Rice is one of my go-to one-pot, 30-minute meals that is high in protein with plenty of veggies! The juicy shrimp is pan-seared and then tossed with rice, scrambled egg, and your favorite vegetables for an easy family favorite meal with what you have on hand!

Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe in a skillet with wooden spoon

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Helpful Reader Review

“This is the best shrimp stir fry! So easy to make and I like that you can add any vegetables to it. My family loves this one!” – Rhonda ★★★★★

Shrimp Fried Rice Video

Fried rice is so easy to make, but be sure to check out my tips for avoiding gummy, sticky rice, a process I picked up from one of my favorite OG bloggers, Jaden of steamykitchen.com.

Best Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe

Shrimp Fried Rice is so easy to make, and once you have a great basic recipe, you can easily change up it up by swapping protein and veggies for what you have on hand. That’s how I came up with my popular Chicken Fried Rice. I love how easy it is to make–and clean up! It’s a one-pan meal that comes together quickly and won’t mess up the kitchen.

We love recreating Asian takeout dishes like Chow Mein, General Tso’s Chicken, and of course, saucy Beef and Broccoli Stir Fry. Making fried rice is probably the easiest homemade takeout dish.

Best shrimp fried rice up close with shrimp, carrots, peas and egg

Shrimp Fried Rice Ingredients

The shrimp fried rice cooking process moves quickly on a very hot skillet, so be sure to have all the ingredients prepped and ready before you start to cook.

  • Rice: Start with cold cooked rice. Leftover rice is best. Avoid fresh, warm rice, or it will become sticky and gooey. I prefer Jasmine rice, but you can use medium, long-grain, or even brown rice.
  • Shrimp: 20-24 count or 26-30 count RAW peeled and deveined shrimp. You can use frozen shrimp thawed according to directions on the package. Make it vegetarian by leaving out the shrimp, like our Pineapple Fried Rice, or substitute it with whatever protein you have, such as ham, bacon (like this Bacon Mango Fried Rice), beef, or chicken.
  • Cornstarch – makes the shrimp slightly crisp when stir-fried, like in our Bang Bang Shrimp Tacos.
  • Vegetables: I use a bag of frozen peas and carrots, thawed according to package instructions, but you can substitute leftover steamed or roasted vegetables (like Roasted Asparagus or Roasted Broccoli).
  • Eggs: Large eggs add more protein, but you can omit the eggs if you’d prefer
  • Green onion – light and dark green parts, plus more to garnish. Don’t have any? Leave them out.
  • Soy Sauce – regular, low-sodium, or even coconut aminos, add them to taste to account for varying levels of salitness in the sauce, rice, and veggies. For Gluten-free Fried rice, check the label for GF, like this Tamari soy sauce.
  • Sesame oil – DO NOT SKIP the sesame oil, which makes it taste like authentic Chinese fried rice. Use pure sesame oil, not toasted.
Ingredients for quick 30-minute Asian meal including left over rice, steamed peas and carrots, coconut aminos or soy sauce, eggs, seafood, salt, sesame oil, cornstarch, and green onions

How to Make Shrimp Fried Rice

This shrimp fried rice takes just 10 minutes to cook, so allow the pan to come to high heat and add in order so the ingredients sear perfectly.

  1. Marinate shrimp in cornstarch, salt, and pepper for 10 minutes.
  2. Cook the shrimp – Heat the skillet over medium/high heat, add cooking oil, and cook the shrimp for 1 minute per side. Transfer the shrimp to a plate and reduce the heat to medium.
  3. Add beaten eggs into the hot skillet and scramble with your spatula until no longer runny. Transfer to the same plate as the shrimp.
  4. Cook green onions – Wipe the skillet with a paper towel, then increase to medium/high heat, and saute the chives in a little oil for 30 seconds.
  5. Spread cooked rice into the skillet and sizzle for 1-2 minutes without stirring. Flip and sizzle another 1-2 minutes.
  6. Add sauces & veggies – drizzle in Soy sauce and sesame oil to taste, and then stir in vegetables. *resist the urge to stir too often
  7. Add cooked shrimp and eggs back to the pan and stir to combine, and add more soy sauce to taste. Serve!
How to make shrimp fried rice step by step

Helpful Reader Review

“Oh my gosh this is so good! I doubled it. The only other changes I made were extra sesame oil and green onions because I love the flavors and added fresh chopped garlic with the onions. Soooo much flavor! Will definitely make it again.” – Betsy ★★★★★

Pan with seafood and rice Asian 30-minute meal recipe

I hope you’re inspired to make some Shrimp Fried Rice this week. You’ll love how easily it comes together in under 30 minutes and how your family will love it! Add this to the menu this week!

Shrimp Fried Rice

4.89 from 267 votes
Shrimp fried rice in skillet with spatula
Shrimp Fried Rice is one of my go-to 30-minute, one-pot dinners, and my family can't get enough of it. Shrimp and Rice is the best way to use leftover white rice and whatever vegetables you have on hand. Take out just doesn't compare!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients 

Servings: 6 people
  • 1 lb 26-30 count uncooked shrimp , (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 tsp corn starch
  • 1/4 tsp sea salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 3 Tbsp LIGHT olive oil, or canola
  • 4 large eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped
  • 5 cups leftover chilled white rice , (rinse rice before cooking)*
  • 12 oz frozen carrots and peas, thawed
  • 2 Tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos , or added to taste
  • 1 1/2 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

  • Marinate shrimp – In a medium bowl, mix the shrimp, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Let marinate at room temperature for 10 minutes.
  • Cook the shrimp – Heat a large non-stick skillet on medium/high heat. When a bead of water sizzles and evaporates, swirl in 2 Tbsp of cooking oil and add shrimp to the hot skillet and spread them out in a single layer. Cook 1 minute per side, or until cooked through and opaque. Remove to a bowl.
  • Add beaten egg – Over medium heat, add beaten eggs to the same skillet. Break up the eggs with a spatula and cook until no longer runny. Remove to a bowl.
  • Cook green onion – Wipe down the skillet with a paper towel and return to medium/high heat. Add 1 Tbsp oil and onions, and cook green onions until fragrant, 30 seconds.
  • Spread rice – Stir in rice, then spread it evenly over the pan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes without disturbing it, then stir and sauté another 1 to 2 minutes. Rice should sizzle.
  • Add sauces and veggies – Drizzle 2 Tbsp soy sauce (or add to taste) over rice and stir well. Add sesame oil and thawed vegetables and mix well.
  • Add cooked shrimp and cooked eggs back to the pan and mix well. Continue to cook until the rice is hot and sizzles, stirring frequently. Add more soy sauce to taste, if desired.

Notes

To cook rice for fried rice: rinse until the water runs clear, cook rice on the stovetop, then cool to room temperature. Spread it into a casserole dish or baking sheet to cool faster then cover and refrigerate until chilled.
Storage and Reheating:
  • Cool the fried rice by spreading it into a shallow container and refrigerating it uncovered until cool. Cover and store in the fridge for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight, or heat from frozen in a covered saucepan over medium heat. Stir until heated through (165°F). You can also microwave a thawed portion for 30-second intervals (stirring between intervals) until the food registers 165°F.

Nutrition Per Serving

396kcal Calories44g Carbs25g Protein12g Fat2g Saturated Fat299mg Cholesterol1108mg Sodium281mg Potassium2g Fiber5585IU Vitamin A10.2mg Vitamin C158mg Calcium3.3mg Iron
Nutrition Facts
Shrimp Fried Rice
Amount per Serving
Calories
396
% Daily Value*
Fat
 
12
g
18
%
Saturated Fat
 
2
g
13
%
Cholesterol
 
299
mg
100
%
Sodium
 
1108
mg
48
%
Potassium
 
281
mg
8
%
Carbohydrates
 
44
g
15
%
Fiber
 
2
g
8
%
Protein
 
25
g
50
%
Vitamin A
 
5585
IU
112
%
Vitamin C
 
10.2
mg
12
%
Calcium
 
158
mg
16
%
Iron
 
3.3
mg
18
%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Chinese
Keyword: shrimp and rice, shrimp fried rice, shrimp fried rice recipe
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $$
Calories: 396
Natasha's Kitchen Cookbook

More Asian-Inspired Takeout Recipes

4.89 from 267 votes (98 ratings without comment)

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Recipe Rating




Comments

  • Harrison Connyer
    October 1, 2020

    That is a good tip especially to those fresh to the blogosphere. Simple but very precise information… Many thanks for sharing this one. A must read article!

    Reply

  • Liliya
    September 18, 2020

    I really like the recipe and flavors but my dish was a bit dry. Does it need more oil? Please advise. Thank you!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      September 18, 2020

      Hi Liliya! This isn’t meant to be a saucy dish, but you can add more oil or even a splash of water to add moisture if the rice seems dry. I hope that helps!

      Reply

      • Liliya
        September 19, 2020

        Thank you! Will try to do that next time!
        This is a great recipe! So glad I can make it at home now:)

        Reply

  • Judi
    September 16, 2020

    Love your recipes. Can this be made with chicken breasts?

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 17, 2020

      Hi Judi, I imagine that will work too but I also have a Chicken Fried Rice recipe.

      Reply

  • Lorna Klotz
    September 6, 2020

    I can’t see how you used 5 cups of rice as it looks to me that you used maybe 2-3 cups at most. Otherwise there’d not be many shrimp per person. The measuring cup looks like a 4 cup so looks like you used maybe 2 cups?

    Reply

    • Natasha
      September 7, 2020

      Hi Lorna, the measurements are correct. You could use less if you prefer but the sauce and seasonings would need to be adjusted or it would overwhelm the dish.

      Reply

  • M Rego
    September 6, 2020

    Wholesome recipe, thanks !

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      September 6, 2020

      You’re welcome!

      Reply

  • Sally
    August 8, 2020

    What does the cornstarch do on the shrimp?

    Reply

  • Jerry
    May 29, 2020

    We love this recipe

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      May 29, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Monica
    May 26, 2020

    This is by far the best shrimp fried rice I made/had it’s better then take out. I make it every time I have left over rice. My family loves it🤤🤤😘

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      May 27, 2020

      Thank you so much for sharing that with us, Monica. I appreciate it!

      Reply

  • Costea
    May 25, 2020

    Tank you

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      May 25, 2020

      You’re welcome!

      Reply

  • Lisa
    April 29, 2020

    Great recipe! Easy and tasty and my whole family loved it!

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      April 29, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Larry Mullinax
    April 20, 2020

    This coconut shrimp and fried rice was awesome. Never could get it right until I used your receipe

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 20, 2020

      Thank you for giving this recipe a try, Larry! I’m so glad that you enjoyed it.

      Reply

  • Kelly Diltz
    April 9, 2020

    I made my jasmine rice this morning to use in the recipe this evening. I’m refrigerating it now. Do I need to rinse before using tonight?

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      April 9, 2020

      Hi Kelly, I haven’t tried rinsing it after cooking. We rinse it before cooking it to remove some of the starch and let it cool completely (ideally it should be refrigerated and chilled before using).

      Reply

  • Saundra
    April 5, 2020

    I made chicken fried rice the other night and it was delicious! The only change I made is I added pineapple pieces!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 6, 2020

      Nice, that sounds yummy. Thanks for sharing that with us and providing great feedback!

      Reply

  • Catherine
    April 5, 2020

    Just made this for dinner. This was excellent! Will be making again.

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      April 5, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed your dinner, Catherine. Enjoy!

      Reply

  • Janice
    March 29, 2020

    Hi Natasha. I made this recipe the other night and it was delicious! I search your recipes frequently for new ideas, since I’m doing a lot of cooking lately! Keep them coming!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 29, 2020

      That’s great to hear, Janice. Enjoy cooking!

      Reply

  • Rennie Earp
    March 17, 2020

    I love all your recipes your smiling face is so friendly! I feel as though I’ve known you for years. Please keep up the good work! You are wonderful! Stay safe and be happy! Thank you ,love. Rennie

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 17, 2020

      Aww! That’s the best! Thank you for sharing that awesome & thoughtful feedback with me Rennie!

      Reply

  • Jenean
    March 10, 2020

    I made this recipe as directed and it was delicious.

    Reply

    • Natashas Kitchen
      March 10, 2020

      I’m so glad you enjoyed this recipe Jenean! Thank you for sharing that with us!

      Reply

      • Saundra Fish
        March 27, 2020

        Would it be as good if I used frozen cooked shrimp? Thanks
        Saundra

        Reply

        • Natashas Kitchen
          March 27, 2020

          Hi Saundra, I always try to avoid using cooked shrimp in recipes that call for uncooked because you can’t really make the shrimp take on any flavor without overcooking them. I think you could still make it work but omit the cornstarch on the shrimp and you won’t need to do the marinating. I would still flash heat them until warmed through but no longer than that because re-cooking cooked shrimp will make them rubbery. I hope you love the recipe!

          Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 10, 2020

      Thanks for sharing that and for the great feedback. I’m so glad you enjoyed it!

      Reply

  • Miranda DuBois
    March 3, 2020

    Hi Natasha, what brand of skillet do you use in this recipe? I have been looking for a big skillet like yours. Love the fried rice by the way it was delicious!

    Reply

  • Goldie baker
    March 2, 2020

    Where do u get the coconut aminos?

    Reply

  • Dave 😁
    March 1, 2020

    Went a bit overboard with the Soy Sauce but it tastes amazing!

    Reply

    • Natasha's Kitchen
      March 1, 2020

      Thanks Dave. I’m sure it will be perfect the next time you’re making this recipe!

      Reply

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