Seafood fried rice is one of those comforting, crave-worthy meals that manages to feel indulgent and wholesome at the same time. When prepared properly, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor with surprisingly simple ingredients and techniques. This Seafood Fried Rice with Shrimp, Crab & Colorful Veggies is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that brings together tender seafood, fluffy rice, savory aromatics, and crisp vegetables in one irresistible skillet.

Unlike takeout versions that can feel greasy or one-note, this homemade seafood fried rice focuses on balance. Sweet shrimp, delicate crab meat, and colorful vegetables are layered with umami-rich sauces and finished with just enough sesame oil to give the dish depth without overpowering the seafood. The result is a fried rice recipe that feels special enough for entertaining yet easy enough for a busy weeknight.

This dish is also incredibly adaptable. You can adjust the vegetables based on what you have on hand, dial the seasoning up or down, and even make it lighter or richer depending on your preferences. Best of all, it’s an excellent way to use leftover rice — a key secret to achieving that classic fried rice texture.

Why This Seafood Fried Rice Works

Great fried rice isn’t about complicated techniques; it’s about timing, heat, and respect for each ingredient. This recipe cooks each component just long enough to preserve its texture and flavor. Shrimp stays juicy, crab remains tender, and the vegetables keep a pleasant bite.

Another reason this dish works so well is its layering of flavors. Garlic and green onions form a fragrant base, eggs add richness, soy sauce delivers salt and umami, and sesame oil ties everything together with a subtle nutty aroma. Every bite feels complete.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked jasmine rice, chilled
8 oz raw shrimp, peeled, deveined, and chopped
6 oz lump crab meat, picked over for shells
2 large eggs, beaten
1 cup frozen peas and carrots
½ cup diced red bell pepper
3 green onions, sliced (white and green parts separated)
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 tbsp neutral cooking oil (such as avocado or vegetable oil)
3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari)
1 tsp oyster sauce (optional but recommended)
1 tsp sesame oil
½ tsp white pepper
Salt to taste

Instructions

Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Add the beaten eggs and scramble gently until just set. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add shrimp and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until just pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Add the remaining oil to the pan, followed by garlic and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Add peas, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until heated through but still crisp.
Add the chilled rice, breaking up clumps with a spatula. Spread it evenly and let it cook undisturbed for 1 minute to develop slight crispness.
Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, white pepper, and salt to taste. Toss well to coat the rice evenly.
Return the eggs and shrimp to the pan, followed by the crab meat. Gently fold everything together to avoid breaking up the crab.
Drizzle with sesame oil and add the green parts of the green onions. Stir once more and remove from heat.
Serve immediately while hot.

Tips for Perfect Fried Rice Every Time

Use cold rice: Fresh rice is too moist and can turn mushy. Chilled, day-old rice fries beautifully.
High heat matters: A hot pan helps evaporate excess moisture and gives fried rice its signature texture.
Cook seafood separately: This prevents overcooking and keeps flavors clean.
Don’t over-sauce: Fried rice should be savory, not soggy.

Flavor Variations

Spicy Seafood Fried Rice: Add chili garlic sauce or sambal oelek.
Garlic Butter Version: Finish with a small pat of butter for richness.
Pineapple Twist: Fold in diced pineapple for sweet contrast.
Low-Sodium Option: Use reduced-sodium soy sauce and skip oyster sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this seafood fried rice as a complete meal or alongside light Asian-inspired dishes such as cucumber salad, steamed dumplings, or miso soup. It also pairs beautifully with crisp white wine or sparkling water with citrus.

Cultural Notes

Fried rice has roots across many Asian cuisines, with each culture adapting it to local ingredients. Seafood versions are especially popular in coastal regions, where fresh shrimp and crab elevate the dish into something celebratory yet practical.

Make-Ahead & Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet for best texture. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the rice soft.