Quick Cajun Shrimp and Rice Dinner Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick and flavorful dinner, Cajun shrimp and rice is the perfect choice. This dish combines tender shrimp with a kick of Cajun seasoning, giving you that satisfying blend of spice and richness. It’s easy to prepare, packed with bold flavors, and comes together in less than 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a special dinner, this meal is guaranteed to impress.
What makes this Cajun shrimp and rice recipe stand out is how simple yet delicious it is. The shrimp cook to perfection, while the rice soaks up all the flavors from the spices and the shrimp. Add in a bit of butter and fresh parsley, and you’ve got a dish that’s full of comfort, heat, and taste. Perfect for any level of cooking experience, this dish brings the taste of the South right into your kitchen with minimal effort.
Cajun Shrimp and Rice Dinner Recipe
4
servings10
minutes20
minutes~400
kcalCajun shrimp and rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish that brings a kick of spice and comfort to your table. With tender shrimp coated in bold Cajun seasoning, combined with fluffy rice, this meal is perfect for a quick dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a delicious option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something savory and satisfying.
Ingredients
1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth (or water)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon butter
1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
1 small onion, diced (optional)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Start by patting the shrimp dry with a paper towel. Then, season them with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until the shrimp are well coated with the spices.
- While you’re prepping the shrimp, cook the rice. Bring 2 cups of chicken broth (or water) to a boil in a medium saucepan. Stir in the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed. Once it’s done, take it off the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before fluffing it with a fork.
- While the rice is cooking, heat some olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell pepper and onion, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells amazing.
- Now, push the veggies to the side of the skillet and add the shrimp. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until they’re pink and opaque. Stir occasionally to make sure they cook evenly.
- Once the shrimp are cooked, add the rice to the skillet and mix everything together. Stir until the rice is coated with all the flavorful juices from the shrimp and veggies.
- Finish by adding a tablespoon of butter to the pan, letting it melt into everything. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve the Cajun shrimp and rice hot, and sprinkle with some freshly chopped parsley to add a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Recipe Video
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables like tomatoes or spinach for added color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the bell pepper and onion for a complete one-pan meal.
- For extra taste, you can marinate the shrimp in the Cajun seasoning for 15-20 minutes before cooking, allowing the spices to really soak in.
Conclusion
Cajun shrimp and rice is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. This dish combines perfectly cooked shrimp, aromatic rice, and a delicious blend of spices, creating a comforting meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes. It’s an easy, one-pan recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for special occasions. Plus, you can easily adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences, making it a versatile dish for any taste. With minimal effort and maximum impact, this Cajun shrimp and rice recipe will become a staple in your dinner rotation. Give it a try and enjoy a meal that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying.
