If you’re searching for the ultimate one-pan meal bursting with smoky spice, juicy shrimp, and tender rice, this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Every bite brings you the savory depth of Cajun seasoning, the freshness of colorful veggies, and that irresistible kick that makes southern cooking so memorable. In just 40 minutes, you’ll have a meal that looks and tastes impressive—yet is genuinely easy enough for any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the best things about this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe is how the simple, vibrant ingredients come together to create something truly special. Each item below brings its own contribution to the party, from sweet bell pepper to soulful smoked paprika.
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen large shrimp are ideal—peeling and deveining makes for the perfect bite and ensures no interruption in flavor.
- Olive oil: This healthy fat gives your skillet a lush texture and helps bloom those aromatic spices.
- Cajun seasoning: Make or buy your favorite blend; it’s the heart of the recipe, offering depth, heat, and vibrancy.
- Onion: A small diced onion brings lovely sweetness and a touch of earthiness.
- Red bell pepper: Diced for shots of color and subtle crunch that balance the spices beautifully.
- Garlic: A must-have for savoriness—two cloves minced add robust flavor without overpowering.
- Long-grain white rice: Perfectly fluffy and soaks up every drop of flavor; swap with brown rice for a heartier twist.
- Low-sodium chicken broth: Infuses the rice with rich flavor while keeping sodium in check.
- Smoked paprika: Gives the dish its signature smoky undertone—it’s the secret ingredient you’ll love.
- Dried thyme: Earthy and slightly minty, thyme rounds out the robust Cajun spices.
- Cayenne pepper (optional): For spice lovers, this turns up the heat; feel free to dial it back for a milder bite.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors—taste as you go to get it just right for your crew.
- Black pepper: Adds just enough warmth and mild heat to balance the dish.
- Green onions: Sprinkle these on top for freshness, crunch, and the perfect finishing touch.
- Fresh parsley: A handful of chopped parsley brightens up both the look and taste of your skillet.
How to Make Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp
Start by tossing your peeled and deveined shrimp in a bowl with one tablespoon of olive oil and all the Cajun seasoning. This quick marinade ensures the shrimp are coated in smoky, spicy flavor, so every bite pops with Cajun flair. Let them sit while you prep your skillet—the seasoning will work its magic in just a few minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add your diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and just starting to caramelize. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds. It should release a fragrant aroma but not brown—watch closely!
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Pour your long-grain white rice into the skillet with the veggies. Stir well to coat the rice grains in the oil and aromatics—this step helps the rice absorb maximum flavor and ensures it cooks up light and fluffy, not sticky.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Add the chicken broth, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper (if you’re using it), salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir, turn the heat up, and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it starts bubbling, lower the heat to a simmer, cover with a lid, and cook for 18 to 20 minutes. You want the rice tender and all the broth absorbed—resist the urge to peek too often!
Step 5: Layer and Cook the Shrimp
Once the rice is ready, gently fluff it with a fork. Spread your seasoned shrimp on top in a single layer. Cover the skillet and let it cook for another 5 to 7 minutes. The shrimp will turn perfectly pink, juicy, and cooked through—just right for piling onto your plate!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Turn off the heat, and scatter the sliced green onions and chopped parsley over your skillet. The bright colors and freshness contrast the smoky Cajun flavors beautifully. Serve your Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe piping hot, and get ready for the compliments to roll in!
How to Serve Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
A good sprinkle of sliced green onions and a handful of fresh parsley take your Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe from one-pan meal to truly special occasion. For even more color, try lemon wedges—just a squeeze brightens everything up!
Side Dishes
This skillet dinner is hearty on its own, but if you’d like to round it out, serve with a crisp green salad or some flaky skillet cornbread. Creamy coleslaw or roasted Brussels sprouts are also delicious and balance the bold Cajun flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Take your presentation a step further by piling servings into individual mini-skillets or bowls. Garnish each plate with extra herbs and a wedge of lemon, or go Southern-style and pair this skillet with andouille sausage for the ultimate comfort feast. Leftovers even make a fantastic burrito filling for an easy lunch twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’ve cooked extra, simply let the Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe cool, then transfer to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it’ll stay fresh for up to three days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making for next-day lunches you’ll actually look forward to!
Freezing
To freeze, portion the cooled shrimp and rice into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Lay bags flat for quick freezing and easy stacking. Your skillet meal will taste great within two months—just thaw it in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat leftovers on the stovetop in a skillet with a splash of chicken broth. Cover and gently steam until warmed through. For a quick fix, microwave on medium in short bursts, stirring often to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp in this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely and pat them dry before marinating. This helps the seasoning stick and ensures they cook evenly.
Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?
Definitely. The heat level is easy to control. Just reduce or skip the cayenne pepper and use a milder Cajun seasoning to suit your taste. Kids and spice-sensitive eaters will still love it!
Can I substitute the rice with something else?
You sure can. Brown rice works well, just adjust the broth amount and cooking time. For a low-carb version, try cauliflower rice—just reduce the simmering time drastically, since cauliflower cooks fast!
What kind of Cajun seasoning should I use?
Use your favorite store-bought Cajun blend, or whip up a homemade version with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and a pinch of cayenne. This way, you can customize the flavor just how you like it.
Can I add other proteins to this recipe?
Yes! Andouille sausage is a classic addition that pairs wonderfully with shrimp. You could also try chicken or even a handful of crispy bacon bits for extra fun and flavor.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to dive into this bold and beautiful Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe. Whether you’re treating friends or just spicing up a simple weeknight, this dish is bound to steal the show. Gather your favorites, grab your skillet, and let the good times (and incredible flavors) roll!
Print
Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet recipe combines bold Cajun flavors with succulent shrimp and fluffy rice for a satisfying one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The dish is packed with a spicy kick from Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika, balanced with the sweetness of bell peppers and onions. Garnished with fresh green onions and parsley, this dish is as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Shrimp:
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
Skillet:
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Toss the shrimp: Combine shrimp, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, and Cajun seasoning. Set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In a skillet, sauté onion and bell pepper, then add garlic.
- Cook rice: Add rice, broth, paprika, thyme, cayenne, salt, and pepper. Simmer until rice is tender.
- Add shrimp: Layer seasoned shrimp on rice and cook until pink.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle with green onions and parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a milder dish, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute brown rice, but adjust cooking time and broth.
- Consider adding andouille sausage for extra flavor and protein.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 385
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
