Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet recipe is a flavorful and easy one-pan meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Tender shrimp are seasoned with a homemade Cajun spice blend, sautéed in butter, and combined with fluffy long grain rice cooked in savory chicken broth. The dish comes together in about 30 minutes and delivers a spicy, comforting experience with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Broth
- 1 ⅓ cups uncooked long grain white rice
- 2 ⅔ cups chicken broth
Shrimp and Seasoning
- 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 tablespoons butter, melted, divided
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
Cajun Seasoning
- 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano (may substitute Italian herb blend or Herbs de Provence)
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare 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 until well combined to make the Cajun seasoning blend.
- Cook Rice: In a skillet or saucepan, combine uncooked rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Prepare Shrimp: While the rice is simmering, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with half of the melted butter, minced garlic, and the prepared Cajun seasoning. Ensure the shrimp are evenly coated with the mixture.
- Combine Shrimp and Rice: Once the rice has cooked for 15 minutes, stir the seasoned shrimp into the rice. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, indicating they are fully cooked.
- Serve: Optional: garnish with freshly chopped parsley for color and freshness. Serve the Cajun shrimp and rice hot, straight from the skillet for a wholesome and comforting meal.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels.
- You can substitute shrimp with chicken pieces or firm fish fillets for variation.
- If you prefer, cook the rice separately to ensure perfect texture before combining with shrimp.
- Chopped parsley adds a fresh finish but is optional.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
