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
Scale
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
