Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice is a vibrant, tropical spin on the classic fried rice dish, blending savory shrimp with sweet pineapple chunks, tender vegetables, and fluffy scrambled egg. This colorful, one-pan meal is packed with flavor and comes together quickly — perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinners with flair.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish offers the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with succulent shrimp, umami-rich sauces, and the refreshing sweetness of pineapple. Using day-old jasmine rice gives the fried rice a perfect texture, while the colorful mix of vegetables and fresh herbs adds both nutrition and visual appeal. It’s a complete meal in one pan — quick, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
- shrimp, peeled and deveined
- pineapple chunks
- eggs, scrambled
- diced carrots
- green peas
- garlic cloves, minced
- soy sauce
- oyster sauce
- sesame oil
- vegetable oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
Directions
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the minced garlic and shrimp. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through.
- Add diced carrots and peas. Stir-fry until vegetables are just tender, about 2 minutes.
- Push the shrimp and vegetables to one side of the wok. Crack in the eggs and scramble until just set.
- Add the cooked jasmine rice to the wok. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Toss in the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro before serving. Serve hot.
Servings and timing
Servings: 2 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Calories: 420 kcal per serving
Variations
- Chicken or Tofu Version: Substitute shrimp with diced chicken breast or cubed tofu for a different protein option.
- Spicy Kick: Add chopped chili, sriracha, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Tropical Upgrade: Serve in a hollowed-out pineapple for a stunning presentation.
- Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce and skip the oyster sauce for a lighter version.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers, green onions, or snap peas for additional crunch and color.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave on medium power for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Avoid overcooking to prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery.
FAQs
Why should I use day-old rice?
Day-old rice is drier and firmer, which prevents it from becoming mushy during stir-frying. Freshly cooked rice can clump and absorb too much moisture.
Can I use canned pineapple?
Yes, canned pineapple chunks work well. Be sure to drain them thoroughly before adding to the pan.
What size shrimp should I use?
Medium shrimp (around 31–40 per pound) work well, but any size can be used. Adjust cooking time accordingly.
Can I omit oyster sauce?
Yes, but it adds depth and umami. If omitted, consider adding a splash of fish sauce or an extra dash of soy sauce.
How do I keep shrimp tender?
Do not overcook the shrimp. Sauté them just until pink and opaque, then proceed with the rest of the recipe.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce and ensure the oyster sauce is gluten-free if needed. Always check product labels.
Can I prepare this in advance?
Yes. Prepare all components ahead and stir-fry just before serving for best flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this dish?
While possible, freezing may affect the texture of shrimp and rice. It’s best enjoyed fresh or within a few days refrigerated.
What oil is best for frying?
Use a neutral oil with a high smoke point, such as vegetable, canola, or peanut oil.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Absolutely. Omit the shrimp and use tofu or extra vegetables in their place.
Conclusion
Pineapple Shrimp Fried Rice is a quick, flavorful, and visually appealing dish that brings the taste of the tropics right to your table. With its mix of sweet pineapple, savory shrimp, and fragrant rice, it’s a satisfying meal that’s both easy to prepare and exciting to serve. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this vibrant stir-fry is sure to be a hit.
PrintPineapple Shrimp Fried Rice
Savory shrimp stir-fried with rice, veggies, sweet pineapple chunks, and scrambled egg — a tropical twist on classic fried rice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stir-Frying
- Cuisine: Asian
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (day-old)
- 10–12 shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup pineapple chunks
- 2 eggs, scrambled
- 1/2 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup green peas
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and shrimp. Sauté until shrimp turn pink, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add diced carrots and green peas, and cook for another 2–3 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Push ingredients to one side of the wok and pour in the scrambled eggs. Stir until eggs are cooked through.
- Add the cooked jasmine rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil. Stir everything together until well combined and heated through.
- Toss in the pineapple chunks and cook for an additional 2 minutes to warm through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and serve hot.
Notes
- Use day-old rice for better texture and less stickiness.
- Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for variation.
- Add chopped scallions or crushed cashews for extra crunch.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 210mg