Nigerian Fried Rice with Shrimp and Chicken is a colorful, flavorful rice dish commonly served at parties, celebrations, and family gatherings. Made with parboiled rice, vegetables, tender chicken, and juicy shrimp, this dish is known for its rich aroma, vibrant color, and bold taste.
This recipe shows you how to make authentic Nigerian Fried Rice with Shrimp and Chicken at home.
What Makes Fried Rice Unique?
Unlike other fried rice styles, Fried Rice is cooked with curry powder, thyme, and stock, giving it a distinctive flavor and aroma. The rice is first parboiled and then stir-fried with vegetables and proteins, ensuring every grain is well seasoned.
Ingredients
-
3 cups long-grain parboiled rice
-
2 cups chicken stock
-
1 cup cooked chicken, diced
-
1 cup shrimp, cleaned and deveined
-
2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
-
1 small onion, chopped
-
1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, green beans, peas, sweet corn)
-
1 teaspoon curry powder
-
½ teaspoon dried thyme
-
½ teaspoon white pepper or black pepper
-
Salt to taste
How to Make Nigerian Fried Rice with Shrimp and Chicken
Follow these steps to prepare delicious Nigerian Fried Rice with Shrimp and Chicken:
Step 1: Parboil the Rice
Wash the rice and parboil it in lightly salted water. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
Heat a little oil in a pan and lightly sauté the shrimp until just cooked. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Base
In a large pot or wok, heat oil or butter. Add onions and sauté until fragrant. Stir in curry powder, thyme, and pepper.
Step 4: Add Chicken and Vegetables
Add the diced chicken and mixed vegetables. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes.
Step 5: Add Rice and Stock
Add the parboiled rice and chicken stock. Stir gently to combine.
Step 6: Add Shrimp and Finish Cooking
Add the shrimp and continue cooking on low heat until the rice absorbs the stock and is fully cooked.
Step 7: Serve
Fluff the rice and serve hot.
Tips for the Best Nigerian Fried Rice
-
Use parboiled rice to prevent mushiness.
-
Cook shrimp briefly to avoid overcooking.
-
Use chicken stock for deeper flavor.
-
Stir gently to keep rice grains intact.
What to Serve with Fried Rice
Nigerian Fried Rice pairs well with:
-
Fried chicken
-
Grilled meat or fish
-
Salad or coleslaw
-
Plantain
This dish is loved for its vibrant color, rich flavor, and versatility. Nigerian Fried Rice with Shrimp and Chicken is a party favorite and a staple at celebrations across Nigeria.
