This Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice is not only delicious but also an incredibly convenient dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to whip up a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead, this recipe delivers in flavor and nutrition. Packed with protein from shrimp and chicken, along with colorful vegetables, it’s a one-pan wonder that will satisfy your cravings and impress your family.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, you can have a hearty dinner ready in no time.
- One-Pan Meal: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your food! Everything cooks together in one pan.
- Customizable Ingredients: Use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand to make it uniquely yours.
- Nutritious and Filling: Rich in protein and loaded with veggies, this dish is a wholesome choice for any meal.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and store it for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
To make the best Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice, having the right tools will make cooking easier and more efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large wok or frying pan
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cooking spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Large wok or frying pan: Provides ample space for cooking all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for whisking eggs without making a mess.
- Whisk: Ensures eggs are well-beaten, allowing them to cook evenly.
Ingredients
This Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice features simple yet flavorful ingredients that come together beautifully.
Protein
- 350 g Chicken (2 chicken breast fillets)
- 200 g Shrimp (fresh or frozen)
Vegetables
- 300 g Vegetables of Choice
- 3 Garlic Cloves
Base
- 250 g Cold, Cooked Rice
- ¼ cup Soy Sauce
Extras
- 3 Eggs
- Green Onions (optional)
How to Make Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice
Step 1: Heat the Pan
Heat some olive or sesame oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Cook Chicken and Shrimp
Cook the chicken and shrimp with salt until the chicken is nearly cooked through. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
Add garlic, vegetables, and soy sauce to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Stir in rice, chicken, and shrimp. Cook until everything is heated through.
Step 5: Prepare Eggs
Whisk the eggs in a mixing bowl until blended.
Step 6: Scramble Eggs
Push rice to one side of the pan. Pour in eggs on the other side and scramble until cooked. Mix everything together thoroughly.
Step 7: Serve
Garnish with green onions if desired, then enjoy your delicious shrimp and chicken fried rice!
How to Serve Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice
Serving Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful experience that can be enhanced with various accompaniments. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro: Adds a fresh, zesty flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
- Basil: Offers a slightly sweet taste, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Add Extra Protein
- Tofu: For a vegetarian twist, add crispy tofu cubes for more texture and protein.
- Fried Egg: Top off each serving with a fried egg for added richness.
Serve with a Side Sauce
- Chili Sauce: Drizzle some chili sauce for an extra kick of spice.
- Sweet Soy Sauce: A sweeter option that balances the savory flavors of the fried rice.
Pair with Soup
- Miso Soup: A light miso soup pairs well, providing warmth and contrast to the fried rice.
- Egg Drop Soup: A comforting choice that complements the meal without overwhelming it.
Include Pickled Vegetables
- Pickled Ginger: Adds brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the dish.
- Kimchi: For those who enjoy heat, kimchi brings in tangy spice and crunch.
How to Perfect Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice
To achieve restaurant-quality Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice at home, follow these simple tips.
- Use Cold Rice: Cold, cooked rice prevents clumping and ensures even frying.
- Pre-cook Proteins Separately: Cooking chicken and shrimp separately allows you to control their doneness better.
- High Heat Cooking: Use high heat for quick cooking; this enhances flavor through caramelization.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Work in batches if necessary to avoid steaming your ingredients instead of frying them.
- Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use fresh vegetables for better texture and flavor; frozen veggies can become mushy.
- Customize Flavors: Feel free to adjust soy sauce or add other seasonings based on personal preference.
Best Side Dishes for Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice
When serving Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice, consider these side dishes that pair well for a complete meal.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy spring rolls filled with vegetables or meat provide a crunchy contrast.
- Wonton Soup: A warm wonton soup adds comfort to your meal while being light in flavor.
- Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli offers a healthy green addition without overpowering the main dish.
- Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw made from cabbage, carrots, and sesame dressing introduces a nice crunch.
- Edamame Beans: Steamed edamame provides protein-rich bites that are fun to eat as finger food.
- Dumplings: Whether steamed or pan-fried, dumplings add another layer of deliciousness to your dinner spread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips on what to avoid.
- Using Fresh Rice: Freshly cooked rice can be too moist, leading to a clumpy texture. Always use cold, leftover rice for the best results.
- Overcooking Shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; overcooking can make it tough. Cook just until it turns pink and opaque, then set aside.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Don’t forget to season your ingredients properly. A little salt and soy sauce enhance the flavors of the dish significantly.
- Not Prepping Ingredients: Failing to chop vegetables and measure ingredients in advance can slow you down. Prep everything before starting for smoother cooking.
- Skipping the Eggs: Eggs add richness and protein. Skipping them will reduce flavor and texture; always include them in your fried rice.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow the dish to cool before sealing it to prevent moisture buildup.
Freezing Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Label containers with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread rice on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.
- Microwave: Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
- Stovetop: Heat a bit of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add rice and stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking for even results.
How do I customize my Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice?
You can add different vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots based on your preference. This makes it versatile!
What type of rice is best for fried rice?
Use long-grain rice such as jasmine or basmati for the best texture. Cold, day-old rice works best.
Is Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice healthy?
Yes! This dish is packed with protein from chicken and shrimp, along with vitamins from vegetables.
Final Thoughts
Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice is not only quick to prepare but also highly customizable based on your preference! You can easily switch out proteins or add extra veggies for added nutrition. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how comforting and satisfying it is!
Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice
Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice is a delightful one-pan meal that brings together the best of both worlds: tender shrimp and juicy chicken stir-fried with colorful vegetables and flavorful rice. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or as a satisfying meal prep option. Each bite is packed with protein and nutrients, making it not only delicious but also nourishing. Customize it with your favorite veggies or add a spicy kick with some chili sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with sides like spring rolls or miso soup, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stir-frying
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 350g Chicken breast fillets
- 200g Shrimp (fresh or frozen)
- 300g Mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, peas, carrots)
- 250g Cold, cooked rice
- 3 Garlic cloves
- ¼ cup Soy sauce
- 3 Eggs
- Olive or sesame oil
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large wok or frying pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook chicken and shrimp seasoned with salt until almost done; remove from the pan.
- Sauté garlic and mixed vegetables until tender.
- Stir in cold rice, chicken, and shrimp; heat through.
- Whisk eggs in a bowl and scramble them in the pan once rice is pushed aside.
- Mix everything well and serve hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
