This seafood fried rice is a flavorful, satisfying dish loaded with perfectly grilled shrimp, crisp sautéed vegetables, and savory, seasoned rice. I love how it transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-style meal that’s easy to prepare at home. The grilled shrimp brings a smoky depth to the dish, while the vegetables add freshness and texture. Combined with the bold flavors of soy sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, this dish is one I keep coming back to whenever I want something quick, filling, and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I enjoy making this seafood fried rice because it’s incredibly versatile, quick to prepare, and tastes amazing. Whether I’m using leftover rice or grilling shrimp fresh, everything comes together in one pan with minimal cleanup. The combination of tender shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and fluffy rice coated in a savory sauce creates layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Plus, it’s a meal I can easily customize based on what I have on hand.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For The Fried Rice:

• 2 cups cooked white rice, cold and ideally day-old (this helps prevent clumping and keeps the rice fluffy)

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (uncooked)

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil, for frying

• 1/2 cup chopped bell peppers (red, green, or a mix of both for color and sweetness)

• 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion

• 2 cloves garlic, minced (for a punch of aroma and flavor)

• 1/4 cup frozen green peas (optional, but adds color and subtle sweetness)

• 1/4 cup diced carrots (adds color and a slight crunch)

• 2 large eggs, lightly beaten (to scramble into the rice)

• 1/4 cup soy sauce (for seasoning and umami flavor)

• 1 teaspoon sesame oil (adds nutty depth)

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (for a slightly smoky, earthy flavor)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1/4 cup chopped green onions (for garnish and freshness)

• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional, for a fresh finish)

For The Grilled Shrimp:

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (helps the spices stick and prevents sticking on the grill)

• 1 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)

• Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

Grill The Shrimp:

1. I preheat my grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

2. In a bowl, I toss the shrimp with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, onion powder, cayenne pepper (if I’m using it), salt, and black pepper.

3. I place the shrimp on the hot grill and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Once done, I remove them from the grill and set them aside.

Prepare The Fried Rice:
4. I heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
5. I add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers. I sauté them for 2 to 3 minutes until they begin to soften.
6. I stir in the diced carrots and peas (if using) and cook for another 2 minutes.
7. I push the vegetables to one side of the skillet and add the cold rice to the empty side. I break up any clumps and mix it all together with the vegetables.
8. In the cleared space in the skillet, I pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. Then I mix them into the rice.
9. I season the rice by adding soy sauce, sesame oil, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. I stir everything together thoroughly until the rice is evenly coated and hot.

Assemble The Dish:
10. I spoon the hot fried rice into a serving dish.
11. I top it with the grilled shrimp, placing them evenly across the surface.
12. I garnish the dish with freshly chopped green onions and parsley or cilantro, depending on what I have on hand.

Optional Finishing Touches:
I like to drizzle a bit of extra soy sauce or sesame oil over the top before serving for added flavor. When I want a spicier kick, I sprinkle on some chili flakes or add a swirl of sriracha.

Servings And Timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 generous servings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• I switch the shrimp for scallops, crab meat, or a seafood mix when I want a different take.

• For a vegetarian version, I skip the shrimp and double the vegetables or add tofu.

• I use brown rice or jasmine rice when I want a slightly different texture or flavor.

• Sometimes I add a splash of fish sauce or oyster sauce for even more umami depth.

• I throw in spinach, bean sprouts, or shredded cabbage to increase the veggie count.

Storage/Reheating

I store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When I’m ready to reheat, I warm the rice in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to help loosen it up. I occasionally reheat it in the microwave, covering it with a damp paper towel to keep the moisture in. I avoid freezing this dish, as the texture of the shrimp and vegetables tends to suffer.

FAQs

Can I Use Freshly Cooked Rice Instead Of Day-Old?

I recommend using day-old rice because it’s drier and gives better texture when stir-fried. Freshly cooked rice can become sticky and clumpy.

How Do I Keep The Shrimp From Overcooking?

I cook the shrimp only until they turn pink and opaque—usually 2 to 3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so I watch them closely.

What Can I Use If I Don’t Have A Grill?

If I don’t have a grill, I sear the shrimp in a hot skillet or grill pan. It gives similar flavor and texture without needing a grill.

Is This Dish Gluten-Free?

If I use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, then yes, this dish can be made gluten-free. Always double-check the ingredient labels.

Can I Add Other Proteins?

Yes, I sometimes mix in diced chicken or beef strips for extra flavor and variety.

Conclusion

This seafood fried rice is one of my go-to meals for its bold flavors, easy preparation, and satisfying texture. Whether I’m using up leftover rice or cooking everything fresh, I enjoy how versatile and customizable it is. The grilled shrimp paired with savory fried rice creates a delicious harmony of taste and texture, perfect for a family meal or casual dinner. It’s a dish that never fails to satisfy and always leaves me wanting just one more bite.