This Cajun shrimp and rice skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s super flavorful! With juicy shrimp and fragrant spices, it’s like a little party on your plate.
I love how quick it is to whip up! Just toss in the ingredients and let it all come together. Plus, one pan means fewer dishes—win-win! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, fresh shrimp work best for this dish. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, consider using frozen shrimp. Just make sure they’re thawed before cooking! If you’re vegetarian, you can substitute sautéed mushrooms or tofu for a similar texture.
Rice: Long grain white rice is traditional, but you can also use brown rice or even quinoa for a healthier twist. Just remember that cooking times may change, so adjust accordingly! I’d recommend rinsing the rice well to remove excess starch for fluffier grains.
Olive Oil: It adds great flavor, but you can swap it out for vegetable oil or avocado oil if you prefer. Butter is also a yummy choice, giving a rich undertone to the dish.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning on hand, try a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and a pinch of cayenne. I love to customize it and add a little more spice based on my mood!
How Do You Perfectly Cook the Shrimp?
Cooking shrimp just right is key to this recipe. You want them juicy, not rubbery! Here’s how:
- Start by heating the skillet highly—this ensures quick cooking while keeping the shrimp tender.
- Lightly season the shrimp with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning before adding them to the hot pan.
- Cook them for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Once they’re done, remove them promptly to prevent overcooking.
Keeping an eye on them while cooking makes all the difference! Enjoy your delicious dish! 😊
Cajun Shrimp And Rice Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1-2 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to spice preference)
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish
- Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- 1 small jalapeño, sliced (optional for garnish/spice)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun shrimp and rice skillet takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 20 minutes to cook. So, you can have this flavorful meal ready in just around 30 minutes. Quick and easy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sautéing the Shrimp:
In a large skillet (ideally a cast iron one for even cooking), heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly season the shrimp with salt, black pepper, and about 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque. Remove the cooked shrimp from the skillet and set aside on a plate.
2. Cooking the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
3. Preparing the Rice:
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir everything together, letting it toast for about a minute. This will give the rice a nice flavor.
4. Adding Liquid and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, the remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, cayenne (if you like it spicy), and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything well to combine.
5. Simmering the Dish:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Mixing in the Shrimp:
Gently stir in the cooked shrimp, mixing it through the rice. Cover the skillet again and cook for another 2-3 minutes just to warm the shrimp through.
7. Finishing Touches:
Remove the skillet from heat, and garnish with sliced green onions, chopped parsley or cilantro, and jalapeño slices if you’re feeling adventurous!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve it hot directly from the skillet for a hearty and flavorful meal. Enjoy your vibrant and spicy Cajun Shrimp And Rice Skillet!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to completely thaw the frozen shrimp before cooking. The best way to do this is to place them in the fridge overnight or in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for about 30 minutes.
What Can I Substitute for Chicken Broth?
If you prefer not to use chicken broth, feel free to swap it out for vegetable broth or even water. Just keep in mind that using broth will add more flavor to the dish!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use the microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if it seems dry.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! You can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add extra cayenne pepper for more heat. You could also include some diced jalapeños in the skillet for a kick of spice!