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Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet Recipe

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4.8 from 28 reviews

This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is a flavorful, one-pan dish featuring tender shrimp cooked in a spicy Cajun butter sauce served over perfectly cooked long grain white rice. Infused with aromatic spices and a hint of garlic, it’s an easy and satisfying meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Units Scale

Rice and Broth

  • 1 1/3 cups uncooked long grain white rice
  • 2 2/3 cups chicken broth

Shrimp and Seasoning

  • 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp, peeled and de-veined
  • 4 tablespoons butter, melted, divided
  • 1 teaspoon minced garlic

Cajun Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 teaspoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (or substitute Italian herb blend or Herbs de Provence)
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Instructions

  1. Prepare Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, thoroughly whisk together all the Cajun seasoning ingredients: paprika, salt, garlic powder, black pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes.
  2. Cook Rice Base: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, half of the prepared Cajun seasoning, and the uncooked rice. Stir well to coat the rice with seasoning and butter.
  3. Simmer Rice: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally 1-2 times to prevent sticking.
  4. Prepare Shrimp: While the rice cooks, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons of melted butter with the rest of the Cajun seasoning. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in this spicy butter mixture until evenly coated.
  5. Cook Shrimp with Rice: Once the rice has cooked, stir the seasoned shrimp into the skillet with rice. Cover again and cook for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque, indicating it is fully cooked.
  6. Serve: Optionally garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot directly from the skillet for a delicious, hearty meal.

Notes

  • Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter flavor or vegetarian option (remove shrimp for vegan).
  • For a spicier dish, increase cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes slightly.
  • Shrimp cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Use fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish to add brightness to the dish.
  • Can substitute long grain white rice with jasmine or basmati rice for different aroma and texture.