Chorizo and Shrimp Fried Rice

Chorizo and Shrimp Fried Rice is a delicious and easy meal to make during the week. Made with chorizo, shrimp, spices, and crispy rice. This one-pot meal is packed with flavor! 

When it comes to quick, satisfying meals, fried rice is a household favorite. Its versatility and simplicity make it a go-to dish for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or even a creative culinary experiment. But what happens when you take this classic and elevate it with bold, savory chorizo and succulent shrimp? You get Chorizo and Shrimp Fried Rice—a dish that’s bursting with flavor and texture! 

Why Chorizo and Shrimp?

The pairing of chorizo and shrimp might not be the first combination that comes to mind, but it’s a match made in heaven. Chorizo, with its smoky, spicy profile, brings a depth of flavor that complements the natural sweetness and tender texture of shrimp. Together, they transform ordinary fried rice into a dish that’s both hearty and elegant.

Want to enjoy a few more fusion options? Try these dishes for a spin: Easy Tuscan Fried Rice, Easy Chicken Fried Rice, or Fried Rice Veggie Bowls.   

The Perfect Fusion

This recipe brings together elements —the comforting familiarity of fried rice with a zesty Spanish twist. It’s a global mash-up that works beautifully, offering something for everyone at the table.

The Rice: Start with day-old rice for the best texture. The slightly drier grains soak up the flavors of the chorizo and shrimp without turning mushy.

The Chorizo: Whether you choose Spanish or Mexican chorizo, its rich, seasoned flavor acts as the backbone of the dish. Pro tip: Cook it first to render its oils, which will infuse the rice with incredible taste.

The Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works well, but make sure they’re peeled and deveined for ease of cooking. A quick sear keeps them juicy and tender.

The Add-Ins: Traditional fried rice vegetables like peas, carrots, and green onions add color and crunch, while a splash of soy sauce ties everything together.

Ingredients Used to Make Chorizo and Shrimp Fried Rice

Simple and delicious is what I love about these fried rice dishes. You’ll need a handful ingredients to make this version: 

• Ground chorizo
• Shrimp
• Yellow onion
• Olive oil
• Garlic
• Gochujang
• White rice
• Soy sauce
• Mirin 
• Fresh cilantro
• Sesame oil 
• Fresh lemon juice
• Eggs
• Sriracha mayo
• White sesame seeds
• Scallion

How to Make Chorizo and Shrimp Fried Rice

Love a good thirty minute meal? Well this one-pot meal will hit the spot. All you need are a few ingredients to make this dish shine. Follow the steps below for success: 

• In a wok or large skillet preheated to medium-high heat, add a tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet followed by the chorizo. Cook the chorizo for about four to five minutes. Once cooked, remove the chorizo from the skillet using a slotted spoon and set aside. 
• In the same skillet as you cooked the chorizo, add one tablespoon of olive oil. Add the garlic and cook over medium-high heat for a minute or two. Next, add in the chopped onion. Cook for an additional two minutes. Add in the shrimp, reserved chorizo, and gochujang sauce. Continue cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes making sure everything is combined. 
• Next, add in the rice and cook until the rice begins to brown about four minutes. Stir in the soy sauce, mirin, cilantro, sesame oil, and lemon juice. Continue to cook for another few minutes making sure everything is combined. Remove the skillet from the heat. 
• Spray a smaller skillet with non-stick cooking spray. Crack two eggs into the skillet and cook until desired sunny-side up doneness.
• To serve: scoop a few spoonfuls of the fried rice onto a plate and top with eggs. Garnish with Sriracha mayo, white sesame seeds, and scallions. 

Variations of Chorizo and Shrimp Fried Rice 

One of the best things about Chorizo and Shrimp Fried Rice is how quickly it comes together. In just about 30 minutes, you can have a meal that feels restaurant-worthy but is made entirely at home. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable. Check out a few variations below: 

• Tropical Twist: Add diced pineapple and a splash of coconut milk for a sweet-and-savory combination that’s perfect for summer.
• Spicy Kick: Mix in sliced jalapeños or drizzle with sriracha for an extra layer of heat.
• Veggie-Packed: Increase the amount of vegetables by adding bell peppers, zucchini, or broccoli for a healthier option.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and bake it briefly for a gooey, melty finish.
• Herbaceous Flavor: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro, basil, or parsley to brighten the dish.

Proper Storing

To ensure your Chorizo and Shrimp Fried Rice stays fresh and delicious, proper storage is key:

Refrigeration: Allow the fried rice to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing: For longer storage, place the cooled fried rice in a freezer-safe bag or container. Label it with the date and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the rice in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.