Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice

Name: Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked brown rice, cooled; 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers); 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon sesame oil; 2 green onions, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying

Highlighted under: Clean & Tasty

I love making Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice because it's quick, vibrant, and packed with flavor. It’s one of those meals that lets me clean out my fridge while creating something delicious and nutritious. The combination of fresh shrimp, crisp vegetables, and fragrant rice is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup! I feel great knowing I'm serving something wholesome to my family without sacrificing taste. Let's dive into this healthy twist on a classic favorite!

Created by

Callista Green

Last updated on 2026-02-24T07:01:36.618Z

Making Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice has become a staple in my kitchen because it combines convenience with nutrition. I remember the first time I added a touch of sesame oil – it transformed the whole dish and gave it an irresistible aroma. I usually use pre-cooked shrimp to save time, but even fresh shrimp works beautifully. The secret is to ensure your rice is cold, as it prevents clumping and gives you that perfect fried texture.

Every time I make this meal, I experiment with different veggies based on what I have, like bell peppers, peas, or carrots. It’s a great way to use up leftovers! I also recommend a splash of soy sauce for flavor, but you can control the saltiness by using low-sodium options. It's customizable, and there’s always room for creativity!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A nutritious option that doesn't compromise on flavor
Quick and easy to prepare for busy weeknights
One-pan meal means less time spent on cleanup

Choosing the Right Rice

Using brown rice in this Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice not only elevates the dish nutritionally but also adds a pleasant nuttiness that complements the shrimp and vegetables. I recommend using day-old rice if possible, as it dries out slightly and prevents clumping during the stir-fry process. If you don’t have time to cook rice ahead, spread freshly cooked rice on a baking sheet to cool quickly and dry out a bit before using.

If you're looking for a lower-carb alternative, cauliflower rice works well too. Simply pulse cauliflower florets in a food processor until they resemble rice grains, then stir-fry them for about 2-3 minutes before adding the proteins and sauces. This creates a light and healthy base for your meal.

Remember to adjust cooking times slightly if substituting rice types. While brown rice takes longer to cook through, cauliflower rice will require much less time in the pan. Keep an eye on it, aiming for just tender, not mushy.

Selecting Fresh Shrimp

Fresh shrimp is essential for the best flavor and texture in this recipe. Look for shrimp that are firm, look shiny, and have a mild scent of the sea. Avoid shrimp with black spots or a strong fishy odor, as they may be past their prime. If you opt for frozen shrimp, ensure they are properly thawed before cooking to achieve that perfect tender bite.

When cooking the shrimp, don’t overcrowd the pan. This helps the shrimp sear rather than steam, creating that desirable, slightly crisp texture on the outside. Cook them on medium-high heat for a quick 3-4 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Overcooked shrimp can become rubbery, so it's best to remove them from the pan as soon as they are done.

If you're looking to add a twist, consider using flavored shrimp, such as those marinated in garlic or citrus. Just remember to adjust the amount of soy sauce accordingly to balance out the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. While it can be enjoyed on its own, consider pairing it with a light cucumber salad or a side of steamed green beans for an added crunch and freshness. A squeeze of lime or a sprinkle of sesame seeds on top just before serving can enhance the dish further.

For those who want a bit of heat, serve with a side of sriracha or chili oil for drizzling. It’s an excellent way to personalize your meal, especially for diners who enjoy a spicy kick. You can also top the fried rice with a fried egg for a protein boost and a beautiful presentation.

This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it perfect for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to the pan to help rehydrate the rice and keep it from drying out.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delightful meal:

Ingredients

2 cups cooked brown rice, cooled
1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 green onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon vegetable oil for frying

These wholesome ingredients will form the base of a delicious meal that the whole family will enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Easy Healthy Shrimp Fried Rice:

Prepare the Ingredients

Make sure all your ingredients are chopped and ready to go, as stir-frying is a quick process.

Cook the Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp, cooking until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed. Add minced garlic and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until tender.

Combine and Season

Return the shrimp to the skillet, add cooked rice, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine and sauté for another 2-3 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Finish with chopped green onions and serve hot. Enjoy your healthy creation!

This quick and easy recipe is sure to be a hit at your dining table!

Pro Tips

For best results, use cold, day-old rice as it fries better. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences.

Tips for a Perfect Stir-Fry

Ensure your ingredients are prepped and in reach before you start stir-frying. Stir-frying is a fast-paced process, and having the shrimp, veggies, and sauces ready to go means you won’t miss a beat. I often set up my ingredients like an assembly line, which keeps the cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Use a large skillet or wok with high sides. This not only provides enough space but also helps in tossing the rice effectively without spilling. A non-stick pan is ideal for preventing sticking, especially with the shrimp. Just remember to keep the heat high to get that perfect sear on your proteins and maintain a nice crunch on your veggies.

If you find the rice is sticking to the pan, don't hesitate to add a tad more oil. A tablespoon can make a huge difference, ensuring a glossy finish and even distribution of flavors. Additionally, don’t rush the cooking; allow each component to cook thoroughly before moving on to the next step for the best texture and taste.

Substitutions and Variations

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Broccoli, snap peas, or zucchini all make great additions. Be sure to cut them into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Also, if you prefer a vegetarian option, tofu can easily replace shrimp—just pan-fry it until golden before adding it back into the dish for a satisfying texture.

For a different flavor profile, consider using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version, or adding fresh ginger along with the garlic for an aromatic kick. You could also swap sesame oil for olive oil if you don't have it; it will still create a delicious dish while imparting a different flavor.

If you're preparing this dish for a larger group, simply double the ingredients. Just ensure your pan is large enough to accommodate the added volume, or cook in batches to maintain the right heat and cooking times for optimal results.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the rice from drying out. Ideally, consume the leftovers within three days to enjoy their peak flavor and texture. If you’re unsure how much you can eat, portion out individual servings for easy access during the week.

When reheating, I recommend using a skillet over medium heat rather than the microwave to preserve texture. Add a little water or broth to the pan, cover it briefly, and stir occasionally to ensure even heating. This helps revive the dish's original flavors, combatting the risk of dry, clumpy rice.

If you've made a larger batch and tend to freeze your meals, this fried rice also freezes well. Let it cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe bags or containers. It can be frozen for up to a month, making it a convenient option for those busy days when you crave a wholesome meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use chicken instead of shrimp?

Absolutely! Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the chicken is fully cooked.

→ Is it okay to use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just ensure they're fully thawed and drained before cooking.

→ Can I make this vegetarian?

Definitely! Replace shrimp with tofu or extra vegetables for a hearty vegetarian dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for the best texture.