Name: Delicious Seafood Fried Rice for Quick Weeknight Dinners
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 4 cups Day-old cooked jasmine rice (Ensure dry, separate grains for the best texture.); 2 Eggs (beaten) (Adds fluffiness and binds everything together.); 1 lb Shrimp (medium, peeled & deveined) (Provides juicy protein.); 1 cup Crab meat (fresh or imitation) (Adds sweet richness.); 1 cup Carrots (finely diced) (Brings color and crunchy texture.); 1 cup Green peas (Offers sweetness.); 1 cup Red bell pepper (diced) (Contributes sweet flavor and vibrant color.); 1 medium Onion (finely chopped) (Adds depth of flavor.); 2 stalks Green onions (chopped) (Used as garnish.); 3 cloves Garlic (minced) (Essential for aroma.); 1 tbsp Fresh ginger (minced) (Adds warm and spicy note.); 4 tbsp Soy sauce (Provides salty umami.); 2 tbsp Oyster sauce (Adds depth and gloss.); 1 tbsp Sesame oil (Enhances aroma.); 2 tbsp Vegetable or peanut oil (Ideal for frying.); 2 tbsp Butter (unsalted) (Gives a smooth finish.); to taste Salt & black pepper (For balancing flavors.)

The delightful aroma of sizzling shrimp and crab fills the kitchen, transforming it into a gourmet seafood haven. In just 40 minutes, this Quick & Easy Seafood Fried Rice combines the best flavors from the ocean with colorful veggies and a savory sauce, making it the perfect fusion dish for any weeknight dinner. Not only does it breathe new life into leftover rice, but it also serves as a crowd-pleasing option that’s simple to customize based on your preference—whether you keep it classic or throw in some spicy flair. With each delicious bite, you’ll feel transported to a bustling night market, savoring the essence of homemade comfort food. Are you ready to dive into this mouthwatering seafood experience?

Why is this Seafood Fried Rice special?

Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 40 minutes, making it a speedy weeknight meal.
Flavor Explosion: Each bite bursts with savory, seafood goodness, thanks to the perfect blend of shrimp and crab.
Customizable Delight: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, like tofu or edamame, for a delightful twist!
Texture Harmony: The contrast of fluffy rice and crisp-tender veggies creates a satisfying mouthfeel in every bite.
Gourmet at Home: Enjoy a restaurant-quality dish without the takeout hassle—it’s a true comfort food masterpiece!
Try serving it alongside a refreshing Asian cucumber salad or some crispy spring rolls for a full experience!

Seafood Fried Rice Ingredients

Elevate your weeknight dinner with these essential ingredients for Seafood Fried Rice!

For the Base
• Day-old cooked jasmine rice – Ensures dry, separate grains for the best texture. Note: Fresh rice can become mushy when fried.
• Eggs (beaten) – Adds fluffiness and binds everything together.

For the Seafood
• Shrimp (medium, peeled & deveined) – Provides juicy protein that forms the base of this seafood delight. Substitution: Frozen shrimp can be used; just thaw and pat dry before marinating.
• Crab meat (fresh or imitation) – Adds a sweet richness. Can be substituted with scallops or tofu for variations.

For the Veggies
• Carrots (finely diced) – Brings color and a crunchy texture.
• Green peas – Offers a fresh balance to the seafood with pops of sweetness.
• Red bell pepper (diced) – Contributes a sweet flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
• Onion (finely chopped) – Adds depth of flavor essential for a savory dish.
• Green onions (chopped) – Provides freshness and is used as a delightful garnish.

Aromatics & Seasonings
• Garlic (minced) – Essential for that aromatic punch that elevates the dish.
• Fresh ginger (minced) – Adds a warm and spicy note.
• Soy sauce – Provides salty umami that forms the base of the flavors.
• Oyster sauce – Adds depth and gloss to your fried rice.
• Sesame oil – Enhances aroma and richness.

For Cooking
• Vegetable or peanut oil – Ideal for frying due to its high smoke point.
• Butter (unsalted) – Gives a smooth finish with a delightful coastal flavor.
• Salt & black pepper – To taste for balancing flavors throughout the dish.

Feel free to customize this Seafood Fried Rice recipe with your favorite ingredients for a personal touch!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Seafood Fried Rice

Step 1: Marinate the Seafood
In a bowl, combine peeled and deveined shrimp with fresh or imitation crab meat, soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, lemon juice, and white pepper. Allow the seafood to marinate for 10-15 minutes at room temperature, ensuring the flavors infuse nicely and the shrimp is well-coated for the Seafood Fried Rice.

Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
While the seafood marinates, finely chop the carrots, green peas, red bell pepper, onion, and green onions into uniform pieces. This ensures even cooking and a delightful mix of flavors. Set aside the chopped vegetables, keeping them separate, so they can be added at the right time during the cooking process.

Step 3: Heat the Wok
Place a large wok over high heat and allow it to become hot, reaching the point where it begins to smoke slightly—this typically takes about 2-3 minutes. Once heated, add a generous drizzle of vegetable or peanut oil, swirling it around to coat the surface evenly, preparing it for stir-frying the ingredients of your Seafood Fried Rice.

Step 4: Sear the Seafood
Carefully add the marinated shrimp and crab to the hot wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque; this indicates they are cooked through. Once ready, remove the seafood from the wok and set it aside in a bowl, leaving the flavorful oil in the pan for the next steps.

Step 5: Add Aromatics
Lower the wok heat slightly and add minced garlic, ginger, and finely chopped onions to the remaining oil. Stir-fry these aromatics for about 30 seconds until they become fragrant, infusing the oil with their delightful scents, setting a savory base for the Seafood Fried Rice.

Step 6: Add Vegetables
Next, toss in the chopped carrots, green peas, and diced red bell peppers. Stir-fry these vibrant vegetables for 2-3 minutes until they become crisp-tender yet retain their bright colors. This step ensures the veggies provide a crunchy texture amidst the soft rice and seafood.

Step 7: Scramble the Eggs
Push the sautéed vegetables to one side of the wok, then pour in beaten eggs into the empty area. Scramble the eggs for about 1-2 minutes until soft curds form, then combine them with the vegetables, creating a cohesive mixture for your Seafood Fried Rice.

Step 8: Add Rice
Introduce the day-old cooked jasmine rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps gently with your spatula. Stir vigorously for a few minutes to incorporate the rice with the vegetable and egg mixture, ensuring every grain is evenly coated with the flavors and heated thoroughly.

Step 9: Season & Add Sauce
Pour in the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and a splash of sesame oil over the rice. Stir well for about 1-2 minutes, mixing everything together. Taste and add salt and black pepper as needed to bring out the flavors in your Seafood Fried Rice, making it wonderfully savory.

Step 10: Combine Seafood and Finish
Return the perfectly seared shrimp and crab to the wok. Toss the mixture on high heat for another 1-2 minutes to ensure everything is heated throughout and combined seamlessly. Finish by adding a pat of unsalted butter, which gives a rich gloss to your Seafood Fried Rice.

Step 11: Garnish & Serve
Once everything is well-mixed and heated, turn off the heat and transfer the Seafood Fried Rice to a serving platter. Sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh garnish, and serve hot. A side of lemon wedges adds a refreshing squeeze to balance the flavors beautifully!

What to Serve with Quick & Easy Seafood Fried Rice

Experience a delightful culinary journey as you pair your fried rice with these tantalizing accompaniments.

Asian Cucumber Salad: A crunchy and refreshing salad that cools the palate, perfectly balancing the savory warmth of the fried rice.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These delightful, golden-fried bites add a satisfying crunch and are perfect for dipping in sweet and sour sauce.
Miso Soup: Silky and savory, this soup complements the rich seafood flavors while providing a comforting warmth to your meal.
Iced Green Tea: The earthy notes of this drink cleanse the palate, creating a refreshing contrast to the umami flavors present in the dish.
Garlic Soy Edamame: Lightly salted edamame tossed in garlic and soy adds protein and a burst of flavor that’s a great side with rice.
Lemon Wedges: A simple yet effective garnish, squeezing fresh lemon over the dish brightens flavors and enhances the seafood’s natural sweetness.
Steamed Bok Choy: This simple green adds a delightful crunch while providing a splash of color and a nutrient boost to your meal.
Chili Oil Drizzle: For those who enjoy a little heat, a drizzle of chili oil can pump up the flavors of your Seafood Fried Rice significantly.
Mango Chutney: The sweet and tangy notes of chutney can provide an unexpected yet delightful contrast to the savory dish, enhancing its brilliance.

Make Ahead Options

These Seafood Fried Rice bowls are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the shrimp and crab up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to intensify. Additionally, chop the vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, and onions) and store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for crisp freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this delicious dish, all you need to do is heat your wok, quickly stir-fry the aromatic ingredients, and combine everything together. This makes it easy to whip up a restaurant-quality meal on busy weeknights, ensuring every bite of your Seafood Fried Rice is just as delightful as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Seafood Fried Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure the fried rice has cooled completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Seafood Fried Rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Portion it out for easy reheating and convenience.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of oil for 5-7 minutes to restore its texture, or microwave gently until heated through.

Reminder: Proper storage keeps your seafood dish fresh, so you can enjoy the delightful flavors of your Seafood Fried Rice whenever you desire!

Variations & Substitutions for Seafood Fried Rice

Customize your Seafood Fried Rice to suit your taste buds and dietary preferences for a unique twist!

Vegetarian: Swap shrimp and crab for tofu or edamame for a hearty vegetarian version. This allows everyone at the table to enjoy a delightful dish.
Spicy Kick: Drizzle in chili oil or a splash of sriracha for an extra boost of heat that tantalizes the taste buds. It’s a thrilling way to spice things up!
Whole Grains: Use brown rice or quinoa instead of jasmine rice for a healthier grain option with added fiber and a nuttier flavor.
Extra Veggies: Toss in spinach, zucchini, or bok choy for a colorful veggie medley that enhances nutrition without compromising on taste.
Different Proteins: Substitute crab with scallops or shrimp with chicken for a flavor profile that caters to your cravings. Each option brings its own twist to the dish.
Umami Boost: Add a sprinkle of furikake or a drizzle of hoisin sauce for a deeper umami flavor that elevates the classic taste of fried rice.
Herbaceous Delight: Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil for a refreshing burst of flavor that brightens each bite.
Protein Power: Mix in some cooked chicken or beef to give your fried rice a protein-packed upgrade that keeps you satisfied.

Feel free to explore these variations, and if you’re looking for more delicious ideas, why not check out the Cheesy Chicken Rice or the flavorful Honey Lime Stack? The possibilities are endless, and it’s all about making this meal your own!

Expert Tips for Seafood Fried Rice

Rice Matters: Use day-old, cold jasmine rice for the best texture; fresh rice can become mushy and sticky when fried.
High Heat Magic: Keep the heat high throughout cooking to achieve that coveted “wok hei” flavor, full of smoky goodness.
Don’t Overcrowd: Fry in batches if the ingredients don’t fit comfortably in the wok; overcrowding prevents even cooking.
Quick Marination: Marinate seafood briefly—just 10-15 minutes—to enhance flavor without ‘cooking’ it in acidic ingredients.
Butter Finish: A little pat of unsalted butter at the end gives your Seafood Fried Rice a luscious, glossy finish that elevates the dish.

Seafood Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

What type of rice is best for this recipe?
Absolutely, using day-old cooked jasmine rice is key for achieving the ideal texture. Freshly cooked rice tends to become mushy during frying, while leftover rice has dried out a bit, ensuring those fluffy, separate grains that make your Seafood Fried Rice shine.

How should I store leftovers?
After enjoying your delicious Seafood Fried Rice, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It’s best to let the rice cool completely before sealing to prevent excess moisture, which can lead to sogginess.

Can I freeze Seafood Fried Rice?
Yes! You can absolutely freeze your Seafood Fried Rice. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in a hot skillet with a splash of oil for 5-7 minutes to revitalize that delightful texture.

What if my fried rice is too sticky?
If you find your Seafood Fried Rice is a bit sticky, this often happens from using fresh rice or adding too much liquid. Make sure you use cold, day-old rice and minimize added liquids until the final seasoning. A touch of oil when reheating can help separate the grains.

Is this dish pet-friendly?
I would recommend avoiding this Seafood Fried Rice for pets. The soy sauce, garlic, and onions are not ideal for their digestion and could be harmful. If you’re looking for a special treat for your pet, cooked plain rice or steamed veggies would be a much safer option.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Very! To make this Seafood Fried Rice vegetarian, simply substitute the shrimp and crab with tofu, edamame, or your favorite mushrooms. This way, you can still enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish while accommodating different dietary preferences!