If you’re looking for a quick, healthy, and flavorful dish, this Bok Choy and Shrimp Skillet is a must-try! Packed with protein-rich shrimp, nutrient-dense bok choy, and a punch of garlic and ginger, this recipe is perfect for a light dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Bok choy is a popular ingredient in Asian cuisine, known for its mild taste and high nutritional value. Pairing it with shrimp, which cooks in minutes, makes this dish not only fast and easy but also deliciously balanced.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
✔ The best way to cook shrimp for maximum flavor
✔ How to stir-fry bok choy without overcooking it
✔ Variations and ingredient swaps for different tastes
✔ Nutritional benefits of shrimp and bok choy
✔ Serving suggestions to make this meal even better
By the end, you’ll have a go-to recipe that’s healthy, low in carbs, high in protein, and bursting with flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Bok Choy and Shrimp Skillet
✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
✔ One-Pan Meal – Less cleanup, more flavor!
✔ Healthy & Low-Carb – Packed with protein, vitamins, and fiber.
✔ Simple Ingredients – Uses basic pantry items and fresh vegetables.
✔ Customizable – Swap ingredients based on your preferences.
Ingredients for the Perfect Bok Choy and Shrimp Stir-Fry
🥘 Essential Ingredients:
✔ 1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
✔ 2 tbsp olive oil (or sesame oil for extra flavor)
✔ 3 cloves garlic, minced
✔ 1 inch (2.5 cm) ginger, grated
✔ 1 bunch bok choy, chopped
🌿 Additional Flavor Enhancers (Optional but Recommended):
✔ 1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
✔ 1 tsp sesame oil (for nutty richness)
✔ ½ tsp red pepper flakes (for heat)
✔ 1 tsp honey (for a touch of sweetness)
✔ 1 tbsp rice vinegar (for balance)
✔ ½ cup sliced mushrooms (for extra umami)
🔪 Step-by-Step Instructions for the Best Bok Choy and Shrimp Skillet
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
1️⃣ Peel and devein the shrimp – Rinse them under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
2️⃣ Chop the bok choy – Separate the stems from the leaves (stems take longer to cook).
3️⃣ Mince the garlic and grate the ginger – These will add depth and warmth to the dish.
💡 Pro Tip: Prepping ingredients ahead of time makes cooking fast and easy.
Step 2: Cook the Shrimp
1️⃣ Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2️⃣ Add the shrimp and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
3️⃣ Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
4️⃣ Remove shrimp from the pan and set aside.
💡 Avoid Overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them!
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
1️⃣ In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp olive oil.
2️⃣ Sauté garlic and ginger for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3️⃣ If using mushrooms, add them now and cook for 2 minutes until tender.
💡 Tip: Stir constantly to prevent garlic from burning.
Step 4: Cook the Bok Choy
1️⃣ Add the bok choy stems first (they take longer to cook).
2️⃣ Stir-fry for 2 minutes, then add the bok choy leaves.
3️⃣ Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the greens are wilted but still crisp.
💡 Tip: Overcooked bok choy becomes soggy—keep the cooking time short for the best texture.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
1️⃣ Add the shrimp back to the skillet.
2️⃣ Drizzle in soy sauce, sesame oil, and rice vinegar (if using).
3️⃣ Stir everything together for 1 minute, ensuring the flavors mix well.
💡 Final Touch: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!
1️⃣ Transfer to a plate and garnish with sesame seeds or fresh green onions.
2️⃣ Serve hot with steamed rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions: What Pairs Well with This Dish?
🥢 Serve Over: Steamed jasmine rice, quinoa, or noodles.
🥗 Pair With: A side of Asian cucumber salad or miso soup.
🍷 Drink Pairing: A crisp white wine (Sauvignon Blanc) or green tea.
Delicious Variations & Ingredient Swaps
Want to customize your shrimp and bok choy skillet? Here are some delicious twists to try!
1. Spicy Chili Garlic Shrimp 🔥
- Add 1 tbsp sriracha or chili paste for a spicy kick.
2. Citrus Ginger Shrimp 🍋
- Squeeze in fresh lime or lemon juice before serving for extra brightness.
3. Teriyaki Shrimp Stir-Fry 🍯
- Use teriyaki sauce instead of soy sauce for a sweeter, richer flavor.
4. Vegan Bok Choy Stir-Fry 🌱
- Swap shrimp for tofu or tempeh, and use vegetable broth instead of soy sauce.
5. Extra Crunch Stir-Fry 🥕
- Add sliced red bell peppers, carrots, or snow peas for extra color and crunch.
Nutritional Benefits of This Dish
🥦 Bok Choy – A Nutrient Powerhouse
✔ High in vitamin C, K, and folate
✔ Rich in antioxidants that support immune health
✔ Low in calories but packed with fiber
🍤 Shrimp – Lean Protein for Fat Loss & Muscle Growth
✔ High in protein (20g per 3 oz serving)
✔ Contains omega-3 fatty acids for brain and heart health
✔ Low in calories but very filling
🍲 Olive Oil & Ginger – Anti-Inflammatory Superstars
✔ Help reduce inflammation and boost metabolism
✔ Support heart and gut health
💡 This meal is perfect for weight loss, low-carb diets, and clean eating!
FAQs – Everything You Need to Know
❓ Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
✔ Yes! Cook everything except the shrimp, then store separately and reheat when ready.
❓ How Do I Store Leftovers?
✔ Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
❓ Can I Freeze This?
✔ Shrimp doesn’t freeze well after being cooked, but you can freeze the stir-fried bok choy for up to 1 month.
❓ Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
✔ Absolutely! Just thaw completely before cooking.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Try 20-Minute Meal!
This Bok Choy and Shrimp Skillet is the perfect balance of protein, vegetables, and bold flavors. It’s a meal that’s:
✔ Quick & easy – Perfect for busy weeknights.
✔ Healthy & nutritious – Packed with vitamins, minerals, and lean protein.
✔ Customizable – Swap ingredients to fit your taste.
✔ Absolutely delicious – Light yet satisfying with bold flavors.
So, what are you waiting for? Try this recipe tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality dish at home!
