Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a meal that’s packed with flavor but doesn’t require a ton of effort, this Cajun Shrimp Rice Skillet is just the dish for you! The shrimp is seasoned with a bold Cajun spice mix, while the rice absorbs all the flavorful juices as it cooks. Plus, this recipe is made in a single skillet, which means less cleanup for you. It’s a balanced, flavorful meal with protein, veggies, and rice all in one, making it a perfect weeknight dinner option.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a small bowl, toss the shrimp with Cajun seasoning and set aside.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat in the oil and veggies. Cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the rice.
- Pour in the chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
- Stir in the corn and cooked shrimp. Cover and let everything heat through for an additional 3-5 minutes.
- Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Variations
- Add other veggies: You can add zucchini, tomatoes, or spinach to make this dish even more colorful and nutrient-packed.
- Spicy kick: If you like it extra spicy, you can add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the shrimp seasoning.
- Switch the protein: If shrimp isn’t your favorite, you can swap it out for chicken, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Cajun rice alternative: For a lower-carb option, use cauliflower rice instead of regular rice.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply microwave the dish until warm, or warm it in a skillet over low heat. You may need to add a little bit of chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them thoroughly before seasoning and cooking.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
You can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a chopped jalapeño, or a dash of cayenne pepper to the shrimp.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the shrimp and vegetables in advance. When you’re ready to cook, just follow the steps for the rice and shrimp.
4. What other proteins can I use?
You can swap the shrimp for chicken breast, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
5. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but note that brown rice will take longer to cook. You’ll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
6. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
7. How can I make this dish more filling?
To make it more filling, you can serve it with a side of bread or a fresh salad, or even add more protein such as additional shrimp or chicken.
8. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Make sure to store the dish in an airtight container.
9. What can I serve this with?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, garlic bread, or even a side of roasted vegetables.
10. How do I know when the shrimp is cooked properly?
Shrimp should turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become tough.
Conclusion
This Cajun Shrimp Rice Skillet is a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal that packs a punch of flavor in every bite. The smoky spices, tender shrimp, and savory rice come together in one skillet, making it a convenient and easy weeknight dinner option. Whether you enjoy it as-is or with a few custom variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation.
Cajun Shrimp Rice Skillet Recipe
This flavorful Cajun Shrimp Rice Skillet brings together juicy shrimp, bold Cajun spices, and tender rice for a one-pan dinner that’s quick, easy, and full of flavor. With a perfect balance of heat and smokiness, this dish is ideal for a busy weeknight or a weekend treat. The spices infuse into the rice, creating a deliciously spicy, savory dish the whole family will love.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, combine Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss the shrimp in the seasoning mix until fully coated.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed, and sauté the diced bell pepper and onion for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes until lightly toasted.
- Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and cook for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
- Stir in the corn and butter, and then return the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- If you prefer more heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix.
- You can substitute the shrimp with chicken or sausage for a different protein option.
- For a smoky flavor, you can also add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika.
