Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Meal: Minimal cleanup required as everything cooks in a single skillet.
• Bursting with Flavor: Homemade Cajun seasoning infuses the dish with a spicy, robust taste.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Customizable Heat: Adjust the spiciness to your preference by modifying the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from shrimp and satisfying carbohydrates from rice.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• For the Cajun Seasoning:

  • Paprika
  • Salt
  • Garlic powder
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Onion powder
  • Dried oregano
  • Cayenne pepper
  • Crushed red pepper flakes

• For the Skillet:

  • Uncooked long-grain white rice
  • Chicken broth
  • Large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • Butter, melted
  • Minced garlic
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, whisk together paprika, salt, garlic powder, cracked black pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.

2. Cook the Rice:

   • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt half of the butter.
   • Add minced garlic, half of the prepared Cajun seasoning, and uncooked rice. Stir to coat the rice evenly with the butter and spices.
   • Pour in the chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Season the Shrimp: While the rice is cooking, combine the remaining melted butter and Cajun seasoning in a bowl. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.

4. Combine Shrimp and Rice: After the rice has cooked for 15 minutes, place the seasoned shrimp on top of the rice. Cover and continue to cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.

5. Serve: Fluff the rice with a fork, ensuring the shrimp are evenly distributed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe yields 4 servings.
• Total Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

Variations

• Protein Alternatives: Substitute shrimp with chicken, sausage, or a combination for a different take on the dish.
• Vegetable Additions: Incorporate bell peppers, celery, or onions for added flavor and nutrition.
• Grain Options: Use brown rice or quinoa as a healthier alternative to white rice, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
• Herb Enhancements: Add fresh thyme or basil to the dish for an extra layer of flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to control the heat according to your preference.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp. Add them during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking.

2. Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?

Absolutely. Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to decrease the heat level.

3. Can I substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute for chicken broth, especially if you prefer a vegetarian version.

4. How can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Sauté diced bell peppers, onions, or celery along with the garlic and spices before adding the rice to incorporate more vegetables.

5. What type of rice works best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice is recommended, but you can also use jasmine or basmati rice for a fragrant variation.

6. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat as needed, adding a bit of broth to maintain moisture.

7. Is frozen shrimp suitable for this recipe?

Frozen shrimp can be used; ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before seasoning.

8. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the skillet?

Use a non-stick skillet and stir the rice occasionally during cooking to prevent sticking.

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Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

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• Author: Ava
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 Servings
• Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is a bold and flavorful one-pot meal, featuring juicy, seasoned shrimp and perfectly spiced rice cooked in a rich blend of Cajun spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy and delicious meal for any night of the week!

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Ingredients

For the Cajun Seasoning:

• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried oregano
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• ¼ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

For the Skillet:

• 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp butter, melted
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:

• In a small bowl, mix paprika, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes.

2️⃣ Cook the Rice:

• Heat 1 ½ tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add minced garlic, half of the Cajun seasoning, and uncooked rice. Stir to coat the rice.
• Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3️⃣ Season the Shrimp:

• In a bowl, mix the remaining melted butter and Cajun seasoning.
• Toss the shrimp in the mixture to coat evenly.

4️⃣ Combine Shrimp & Rice:

• After 15 minutes, place the seasoned shrimp on top of the rice.
• Cover and continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, until shrimp are pink and opaque.

5️⃣ Serve & Garnish:

• Fluff the rice, ensuring shrimp are evenly distributed.
• Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Notes

✅ Protein Swap – Use chicken, sausage, or a combination instead of shrimp.
✅ Vegetable Boost – Add bell peppers, celery, or onions for extra nutrition.
✅ Grain Alternatives – Swap white rice for brown rice or quinoa (adjust cooking time).
✅ Spicy or Mild – Adjust cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes to control the heat.
✅ Herb Enhancements – Try fresh thyme or basil for added depth.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Cajun