For a hearty and flavorful meal, Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is the ultimate choice! I prepared this dish for a family gathering, and it was a crowd favorite. The succulent shrimp combined with spicy Cajun seasoning and perfectly cooked rice creates a vibrant, one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for weeknight dinners or entertaining guests, this dish brings a taste of the South to your table!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Rice: Stir in the rice, Cajun seasoning, and diced tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover and reduce heat, cooking for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Add Shrimp: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve: Serve hot, straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 4
Calories per Serving: Approximately 450
Total Fat: 10g
Saturated Fat: 1.5g
Cholesterol: 220mg
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 30g
Preparation Time
Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
How to Serve
Serve the Cajun shrimp and rice directly from the skillet for a casual dining experience. Pair with a simple green salad or cornbread for a complete meal.
Additional Tips
- Make It Ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated, though the rice may absorb some moisture.
- Flavor Variations: Add other vegetables like zucchini or corn for extra nutrition and flavor.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference.
Freezing and Storage
Freezing: This dish freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Storage: Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
Special Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking spoon
- Measuring cups
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use brown rice instead?
A1: Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amounts.
Q2: What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
A2: You can make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and thyme.
Q3: Can I use other proteins?
A3: Absolutely! Chicken or sausage works great in this dish as well.
This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is a quick and flavorful meal that captures the essence of Cajun cooking, making it a perfect addition to your dinner rotation. Enjoy!
Print
Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 bell pepper (diced)
- 1 onion (diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Cook Rice: Stir in the rice, Cajun seasoning, and diced tomatoes. Pour in the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover and reduce heat, cooking for about 15 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Add Shrimp: Once the rice is cooked, stir in the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp are pink and opaque, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Garnish: Remove from heat and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
- Serve: Serve hot, straight from the skillet for a rustic presentation.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Protein: 30g
