There’s nothing quite like a plate of homemade fried rice with egg and shrimp. It’s packed with flavor, incredibly satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or looking for a way to use up leftover rice, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen.
I still remember the first time I made fried rice with egg and shrimp at home. I was tired of ordering takeout and wanted to recreate that same restaurant-style taste. After experimenting with different seasonings, sauces, and cooking techniques, I finally discovered the perfect balance of flavors. Now, I’m excited to share this recipe with you!
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best fried rice with egg and shrimp. From choosing the right rice to cooking the shrimp just right, we’ll break it all down step by step. Get ready to impress your family with a delicious homemade meal!
Essential Ingredients for Fried Rice with Egg and Shrimp
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s talk about the key ingredients that make fried rice with egg and shrimp so delicious.
Choosing the Best Rice for Fried Rice
The secret to perfect fried rice starts with the right rice. Day-old, cold rice works best because it’s drier and won’t turn mushy when stir-fried.
| Type of Rice | Why It Works Best |
|---|---|
| Jasmine Rice | Light, fluffy, and slightly sticky for the best texture. |
| Basmati Rice | Less sticky, perfect for those who like drier fried rice. |
| Long-Grain White Rice | Absorbs flavors well and stays separate when stir-fried. |
The Role of Egg in Fried Rice
Eggs add richness and texture to fried rice with egg and shrimp. Scrambling them before mixing them into the rice gives that classic fried rice feel.
Picking the Right Chicken for the Best Texture
For the best results, use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Chicken should be cut into small bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
Selecting Fresh Shrimp for Maximum Flavor
Shrimp is the star of this dish! Here’s how to choose the best shrimp for your fried rice with egg and shrimp:
- Use medium to large shrimp for the best bite.
- Fresh shrimp is always ideal, but frozen shrimp works well if thawed properly.
- Remove the shells and devein shrimp before cooking.
Additional Ingredients for Authentic Fried Rice Flavor
Besides rice, chicken, egg, and shrimp, here are other ingredients that enhance the taste of fried rice with egg and shrimp:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | Adds savory umami flavor. |
| Oyster Sauce | Gives a rich depth of flavor. |
| Sesame Oil | Adds a nutty aroma to the dish. |
| Garlic and Ginger | Boosts the overall flavor profile. |
| Green Onions | Adds freshness and color. |
| Vegetables (Peas, Carrots, Bell Peppers) | Enhances texture and nutrition. |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Fried Rice with Egg and Shrimp
Preparing the Ingredients: Chopping, Marinating, and Cooking Order
Proper prep work makes cooking fried rice with egg and shrimp easier and faster. Here’s what you should do before you start:
- Cook the rice the day before and let it chill in the fridge.
- Dice the chicken into small pieces.
- Peel and devein the shrimp, then pat dry.
- Chop the vegetables into small, uniform pieces.
- Beat the eggs in a bowl and season with salt.
How to Cook the Perfect Fluffy Scrambled Egg
Eggs should be soft and fluffy in fried rice. Follow these simple steps:
- Heat a small amount of oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the beaten eggs and let them set slightly.
- Gently stir with a spatula, cooking until just set.
- Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken, Shrimp, and Stir-Frying the Rice
Now that we’ve prepped our ingredients, it’s time to bring everything together. The key to making the best fried rice with egg and shrimp is cooking each component properly before mixing them all in the wok or pan.
Sautéing Chicken and Shrimp for the Best Texture
Chicken and shrimp should be cooked separately to ensure both turn out tender and flavorful. Here’s how to do it:
How to Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
How to Cook the Shrimp
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil.
- Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
- Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside with the chicken.
Stir-Frying Rice to Get That Classic Fried Rice Taste
Now comes the most important part—stir-frying the rice. A high-heat pan and the right technique will give you that restaurant-quality flavor.
How to Stir-Fry the Rice
- In the same pan, add 1 more tablespoon of oil.
- Add chopped garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Increase the heat to high and add the cold, day-old rice.
- Break up any clumps with a spatula and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.
Adding Seasonings and Sauces for an Authentic Flavor
The secret to making flavorful fried rice with egg and shrimp lies in the sauces and seasonings. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Soy Sauce | Gives the dish a rich umami taste. |
| Oyster Sauce | Adds depth and enhances the savory flavors. |
| Sesame Oil | Provides a nutty aroma and a restaurant-style finish. |
| White Pepper | Gives a subtle heat and complexity. |
How to Add Seasonings
- Drizzle soy sauce and oyster sauce over the rice.
- Mix well to evenly coat the grains.
- Add a pinch of white pepper for extra flavor.
- Continue to stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
Bringing It All Together
Now that all components are cooked, it’s time to combine them into one delicious dish.
Final Steps
- Push the rice to one side of the pan.
- Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan.
- Stir everything together and cook for 1 more minute.
- Drizzle a little sesame oil over the top for a finishing touch.
- Garnish with chopped green onions for added freshness.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Cooking fried rice with egg and shrimp seems easy, but small mistakes can affect the texture and taste. Here are the most common errors and how to fix them.
| Mistake | Solution |
|---|---|
| Using freshly cooked rice | Use day-old, cold rice for the best texture. |
| Overcooking the shrimp | Shrimp only needs 1-2 minutes per side; remove as soon as it turns pink. |
| Adding soy sauce too early | Add soy sauce after the rice has been stir-fried to prevent sogginess. |
| Not cooking ingredients separately | Cook chicken, shrimp, and eggs separately before combining. |
How to Store and Reheat Fried Rice Properly
Leftover fried rice with egg and shrimp can be just as delicious if stored and reheated correctly.
Best Storage Methods to Keep Fried Rice Fresh
- Let the rice cool completely before storing.
- Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- For longer storage, freeze fried rice for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat Fried Rice Without Losing Flavor
Reheating the right way ensures your fried rice with egg and shrimp stays delicious.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium heat with a little oil, stirring frequently.
- Microwave: Add a tablespoon of water, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave in 30-second intervals.
- Oven: Spread rice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and bake at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes.
Side Dishes and Serving Suggestions
Want to turn your fried rice with egg and shrimp into a full meal? Pair it with these delicious sides.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Fried Rice
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Egg Drop Soup | Light and comforting, perfect with fried rice. |
| Spring Rolls | Crispy and filled with veggies for extra texture. |
| Steamed Dumplings | A savory complement to the rich flavors of fried rice. |
| Asian Slaw | Fresh and crunchy, balancing the dish. |
Sauce Pairings to Enhance the Dish
Try these sauces to boost the flavor of your fried rice with egg and shrimp:
- Sriracha: Adds heat and spice.
- Sweet Chili Sauce: A mix of sweet and tangy.
- Hoisin Sauce: Deep, slightly sweet umami flavor.
- Soy Sauce + Vinegar: Classic and balanced seasoning.
Nutritional Benefits of This Fried Rice Recipe
Fried rice with egg and shrimp is a high-protein, energy-packed dish that can be part of a balanced diet.
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fats | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sodium | 850mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes! Just thaw shrimp in cold water for 15-20 minutes, then pat dry before cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Prevent Rice from Sticking?
Use cold, day-old rice and stir-fry over high heat with a little oil.
How Can I Make My Fried Rice Less Greasy?
Avoid using too much oil. Start with a small amount and add more only if needed.
Explore More Delicious Recipes
Final Thoughts – Enjoy the Best Homemade Fried Rice
With the right ingredients, techniques, and a little practice, you can make the perfect fried rice with egg and shrimp at home. Follow these tips to create a dish that’s flavorful, satisfying, and better than takeout!
Key takeaways:
- Use day-old rice for the best texture.
- Cook shrimp and chicken separately for even cooking.
- Season the rice at the right stage to avoid sogginess.
- Pair with side dishes and sauces for extra flavor.
What’s your favorite way to make fried rice with egg and shrimp? Let us know in the comments and follow us for more delicious recipes!
Happy cooking with Rita Chef ❤️!
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Fried Rice with Egg and Shrimp
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2-3 servings
Description
This fried rice with egg and shrimp is packed with bold flavors and a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and seasonings. Made with day-old rice, fluffy scrambled eggs, and juicy shrimp, this dish comes together in minutes, making it a great option for a quick weeknight meal. Enjoy a homemade take on classic takeout-style fried rice that’s even better than the restaurant version.
Ingredients
For the Fried Rice
Two cups cooked day-old rice cold
One cup shrimp peeled and deveined
Two eggs beaten
One cup mixed vegetables peas carrots bell peppers
Two tablespoons soy sauce
One tablespoon oyster sauce
One teaspoon sesame oil
One teaspoon white pepper
Two cloves garlic minced
One tablespoon vegetable oil
Two green onions chopped for garnish
Instructions
Prepare the Ingredients
If using frozen shrimp thaw completely and pat dry with a paper towel
Crack the eggs into a bowl beat them lightly and set aside
Chop all vegetables into small uniform pieces for even cooking
Cook the Eggs
Heat a pan over medium heat and add a small amount of oil
Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble gently until just set
Remove from the pan and set aside
Cook the Shrimp
In the same pan add a little more oil and sauté the shrimp for one to two minutes per side until pink and fully cooked
Remove from the pan and set aside
Stir-Fry the Rice
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant
Add the cold cooked rice breaking up any clumps with a spatula
Stir-fry for two to three minutes until heated through
Add Seasonings and Combine
Drizzle soy sauce oyster sauce and white pepper over the rice and mix well
Return the cooked eggs and shrimp to the pan along with the mixed vegetables
Stir-fry everything together for another two minutes until all ingredients are evenly combined
Finish and Serve
Drizzle sesame oil over the fried rice and give it a final stir
Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot
Notes
Use day-old rice for the best texture as fresh rice can turn mushy when stir-fried
For extra flavor add a splash of fish sauce or chili oil before serving
Feel free to customize with additional protein like chicken or tofu
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stir-Fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: One serving
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 850 mg
- Fat: 12 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 180 mg
Keywords: Shrimp Fried Rice Recipe Easy Fried Rice with Egg Homemade Takeout Fried Rice