Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet: A Cozy One-Pan Delight

There’s something truly magical about a warm, fragrant dish that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas, and this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is just that! Picture this: the vibrant colors of bell pepper, the irresistible scent of garlic dancing in the air, and perfectly tender shrimp nestled among fluffy rice. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace on a chilly evening.

I remember the first time I made this dish—my family had gathered after a long day, and the kitchen buzzed with chatter and laughter. As we sat around the table, sharing stories and savoring each bite, I realized that food has a special way of bringing us together. This recipe is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug. Trust me, this is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet offers a delightful medley of flavors, all made in one pan for easy cleanup, making it an absolute winner for busy weeknights.
• Quick & Easy: Ready in just about 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those evenings when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.
• Flavor Explosion: The zesty Cajun seasoning brings a burst of flavor that’ll tickle your taste buds and warm your soul.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters! It’s comforting, filling, and oh-so-delicious.
• Customizable: Throw in your favorite veggies or swap out proteins! This recipe easily adapts to whatever ingredients you have on hand.

What You’ll Need

Gather These Simple Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

Let’s Make It Together

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until they’re softened and the aroma fills your kitchen.
3. Stir in the rice and Cajun seasoning, mixing well to ensure every grain is coated in those vibrant spices.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, bubbling and frothing invitingly.
5. Reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet, simmering for about 15 minutes or until the rice is cooked through and tender.
6. Gently stir in the shrimp, watching them turn a beautiful pink as they cook through in about 5 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then sprinkle with chopped green onions for a fresh finish. Serve warm and enjoy the cozy flavors!

Delicious Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce to the mix for those who love a spicy touch!
• Creamy Addition: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream for a rich, creamy version that’s indulgent and blissful.
• Veggie Delight: Toss in some frozen corn or fresh spinach just before adding the shrimp for added nutrition and a pop of color.
• Citrusy Twist: Finish your dish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, refreshing zing that complements the Cajun spices perfectly.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

• Make-Ahead Magic: You can prep the veggies and rice ahead of time. Just store them separately in the fridge and bring them together at cooking time!
• Swap It Up: If shrimp isn’t your thing, feel free to use chicken or sausage—just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• Leftover Love: This dish stores beautifully! Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for an easy lunch.
• Perfect Rice: For fluffy rice, avoid stirring too much once the broth is added. Cover it and let it do its thing!

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Sugar: 2g
• Fat: 10g
• Protein: 25g
• Sodium: 800mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! Prepping everything ahead of time will cut down on cooking time. Just follow the instructions when you’re ready!

Can I use different ingredients?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in your favorite vegetables or swap the shrimp for another protein, just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I store leftovers?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3 days—perfect for a quick lunch!

How long does it last?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet can be stored for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just reheat and enjoy!

Wrapping It Up

This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and love. Whether you’re serving it to family, friends, or simply indulging in a cozy night at home, it’s sure to delight. Save this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet to your weeknight dinners board so it’s ready when you need a comforting treat! Happy cooking, my friends!

Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

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• Author: Chef Emma
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Pescatarian

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Description

A cozy one-pan dish filled with vibrant flavors and tender shrimp, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped green onions for garnish

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Instructions

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat, allowing it to shimmer.
2. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic, cooking until they’re softened and aromatic.
3. Stir in the rice and Cajun seasoning, mixing well to coat the rice with spices.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and cover, simmering for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
6. Gently stir in the shrimp and cook for about 5 minutes until they turn pink.
7. Season with salt and pepper, and sprinkle with chopped green onions before serving.

Notes

For a spicier kick, add hot sauce. This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 1.5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 200mg

Keywords: shrimp, rice, Cajun, one-pan, easy dinner