30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice

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When your weeknight dinner needs to be quick, flavorful, and satisfying, this 30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice delivers everything you crave. Packed with plump shrimp, fluffy rice, tender-crisp veggies, and perfectly scrambled eggs, this one-pan wonder is a delicious takeout-style meal you can make right at home. Whether you’re short on time or simply want something comforting and protein-rich, this recipe has your back.

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30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice

What makes this dish even more irresistible is how easy it is to customize. Have leftover veggies? Toss them in. Want a spicier kick? Add a pinch of chili flakes. This shrimp fried rice is the perfect blend of versatility and flavor, making it a reliable favorite for busy households.

Why You’ll Love This Shrimp Fried Rice

  • It comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for hectic evenings.
  • The combination of shrimp, rice, eggs, and vegetables makes it a balanced, satisfying meal.
  • Easily customizable with your favorite vegetables or sauces.
  • Uses everyday pantry staples.
  • Tastes just like your favorite takeout, but fresher and healthier.

What Kind of Shrimp Should I Use?

For best results, use medium to large raw shrimp that’s been peeled and deveined. Frozen shrimp work great too—just be sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking. Tail-off shrimp are easier to eat in a dish like this, but tail-on works if you want a more dramatic presentation.


Ingredients for the 30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice

Each ingredient in this dish brings its own texture and flavor, creating a complete, well-rounded meal in every bite.

  • Shrimp – The star of the dish. Use raw, peeled shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
  • Day-old rice – Leftover rice has less moisture, making it perfect for stir-frying without getting mushy.
  • Eggs – Adds richness and protein; they’re scrambled and folded into the rice.
  • Peas and carrots – Classic veggies that add color, crunch, and sweetness.
  • Green onions – Brings a sharp, fresh flavor to balance the richness.
  • Soy sauce – Adds umami and saltiness; essential for that takeout flavor.
  • Sesame oil – A small splash infuses a deep, nutty aroma.
  • Garlic and ginger – For aromatic depth and zingy freshness.
  • Vegetable oil – Neutral oil that handles high heat well for stir-frying.

How To Make the 30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice

Step 1: Prep and Chop Everything First

Get all your ingredients ready before you heat the pan. Chop vegetables, beat the eggs, and make sure the shrimp is dry.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add beaten eggs and scramble quickly. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add more oil if needed. Toss in garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Veggies

In the same pan, add the peas, carrots, and green onions. Stir-fry until just tender.

Step 6: Add Rice and Seasoning

Add the day-old rice to the pan. Break up any clumps and stir everything together. Pour in soy sauce and sesame oil.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Return the shrimp and scrambled eggs to the pan. Mix until evenly distributed and heated through. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.


How to Serve and Store Shrimp Fried Rice

This 30-minute shrimp fried rice serves 4 generous portions and is best enjoyed fresh off the stove, when the shrimp is juicy and the rice is hot and fragrant. That said, it also holds up well for leftovers.

To store: Allow it to cool fully, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water to refresh the rice.

What to Serve With Shrimp Fried Rice?

Miso Soup

A light, umami-packed broth to start your meal.

Spicy Cucumber Salad

Cool, crunchy, and just a little spicy—a great contrast to the hot rice.

Steamed Dumplings

A classic appetizer that pairs wonderfully with shrimp fried rice.

Sesame Garlic Green Beans

Bright and tender veggies that echo the sesame in the rice.

Mango Sticky Rice

Sweet and chewy dessert that rounds out an Asian-inspired dinner.

Kimchi

If you like fermented tang and a punch of heat, kimchi offers a bold sidekick.

Thai Peanut Slaw

Crunchy, nutty, and zesty—a fun textural contrast.


Want More Asian-Inspired Ideas?

If you love this shrimp fried rice, check out these flavor-packed dishes:

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Let us know in the comments—do you prefer it spicy or classic? Ever tried it with pineapple or sriracha?

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30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice

30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice


  • Author: Nora
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This 30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice is a fast and flavorful dish that transforms everyday ingredients into a satisfying, one-pan meal. Juicy shrimp, fluffy day-old rice, colorful veggies, and scrambled eggs come together with soy sauce and sesame oil to create a quick dinner that tastes just like your favorite takeout. Whether you’re searching for a quick dinner, healthy snack, easy recipe, or food ideas that please the whole family, this shrimp fried rice hits the spot. It’s also a great meal prep idea for busy weeks and one of the easiest dinner ideas to whip up in under half an hour.


Ingredients

2 cups day-old cooked rice

1 tablespoon vegetable oil

2 eggs, beaten

2 teaspoons minced garlic

1 teaspoon minced fresh ginger

1 cup medium raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

1/2 cup diced carrots

1/2 cup green peas

1/4 cup sliced green onions

3 tablespoons soy sauce

1 teaspoon sesame oil


Instructions

1. Prepare all ingredients ahead of time: chop vegetables, beat the eggs, and pat the shrimp dry.

2. In a large skillet or wok, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the eggs and scramble until just set. Remove and set aside.

3. Add more oil if needed. Sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant, about 30 seconds.

4. Add shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.

5. Stir-fry carrots, peas, and green onions until slightly tender.

6. Add the rice, breaking up clumps. Stir well with vegetables.

7. Add soy sauce and sesame oil, mixing thoroughly.

8. Return shrimp and scrambled eggs to the pan. Toss everything together until heated through.

9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot.

Notes

For best results, use cold day-old rice to prevent stickiness.

You can substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, or keep it vegetarian.

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stir-Fry
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 375
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 720mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 23g
  • Cholesterol: 185mg

Keywords: quick dinner, shrimp fried rice, easy dinner, one-pan meal, Asian takeout

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