Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

Imagine the sizzle of plump shrimp hitting a hot skillet, releasing that unmistakable aroma of buttery garlic and bold Cajun spices. This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is Southern comfort food at its finest – a one-pan wonder that delivers incredible flavor with minimal effort. The tender rice absorbs all those savory seasonings while the shrimp cook to perfect pink perfection. You’ll learn how to balance the spice levels, cook the shrimp just right, and create a restaurant-worthy dish that comes together in under 30 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is about to become your new weeknight favorite for several compelling reasons. First, it’s a complete meal in one pan, meaning fewer dishes to clean afterward. The contrast of textures is absolutely divine – fluffy rice with a slight chew, tender shrimp with that perfect snap when you bite into them, all brought together by a buttery, seasoned sauce.

The flavor profile is what truly makes this dish special. The homemade Cajun seasoning gives you complete control over the heat level, allowing you to adjust according to your preference. Unlike store-bought mixes, you’ll avoid unnecessary additives and can customize the spice blend to your taste.

The cooking process is straightforward but yields impressive results that look and taste like you spent hours in the kitchen. The rice absorbs all those aromatic spices and broth, creating a flavor-packed foundation for the succulent Cajun-butter shrimp. It’s the perfect balance of convenience and gourmet satisfaction.

Ingredients List for the Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

The magic of this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet comes from quality ingredients and the perfect balance of spices. The long grain rice provides the ideal texture while absorbing the flavorful broth, and the homemade Cajun seasoning allows you to control exactly what goes into your dish.

• 1 ⅓ cups uncooked long grain white rice
• 2 ⅔ cup chicken broth
• 1 pound large or jumbo shrimp (peeled and de-veined)
• 4 tablespoons butter (melted, divided)
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• Cajun seasoning (see below)
• 1 ½ teaspoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano (may sub an Italian herb blend or Herbs de Provence)
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

Pro Tips

Creating the perfect Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is all about technique and timing. Here are three critical tips to ensure your dish turns out flawlessly:

First, don’t skip toasting the rice in the butter and seasonings before adding the broth. This crucial step builds a foundation of flavor and helps each grain maintain its distinct texture rather than becoming mushy. The rice will take on a slightly nutty aroma when it’s properly toasted – that’s when you know it’s time to add the liquid.

Second, be careful not to overcook your shrimp. They cook quickly – just 3-5 minutes is all you need for most sizes. Look for that characteristic pink color and slight curve (forming a loose “C” shape, not a tight “O” which indicates overcooking). Remember that shrimp continue cooking from residual heat after you remove them from the heat source.

Lastly, the resting period after cooking allows the flavors to meld and the rice to finish absorbing any remaining liquid. Let the skillet sit covered for about 5 minutes after removing from heat before serving. This patience will reward you with perfectly textured rice and maximum flavor development.

Instructions

Step 1: Whisk together all of the ingredients for the cajun seasoning. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Stir in garlic, half of the cajun seasoning, and the rice.

Step 2: Stir in chicken broth, bring to a boil, reduce to a simmer and cover. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring 1-2 times throughout.

Step 3: While rice is cooking, prepare the shrimp by stirring together remaining 2 tablespoons melted butter and remaining cajun seasoning. Pour over shrimp and toss to coat.

Step 4: Stir shrimp into the rice, cover and cook 3-5 minutes longer until shrimp is pink and opaque. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired and serve.

Variations

The beauty of this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is its versatility. For a lower-carb option, substitute the white rice with cauliflower rice, adjusting the cooking time to about 5-7 minutes instead of 15 minutes, and reducing the broth to just 1 cup. The spice blend works beautifully with the cauliflower rice for a lighter but still satisfying meal.

For those who prefer chicken, simply substitute 1 pound of diced boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the shrimp. Add the chicken earlier in the cooking process – right after the rice has been cooking for about 7-8 minutes, as chicken takes longer to cook than shrimp.

Vegetarians can create an equally delicious skillet by replacing the shrimp with 2 cups of mixed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The cajun seasoning works wonderfully with the hearty vegetables for a plant-based alternative.

Storage and Serving

Your Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often develop further overnight, making leftovers particularly delicious. However, be aware that reheated shrimp can sometimes become a bit tough, so it’s best to reheat gently in a covered skillet with a splash of water or broth over low heat.

For an impressive presentation, serve this dish directly from the skillet at the table, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and lemon wedges. The vibrant colors make for a stunning centerpiece. Pair it with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish.

For a complete Louisiana-inspired meal, serve alongside crusty French bread for sopping up the flavorful sauce, and consider a side of simply cooked collard greens or green beans for a nutritional boost. A cold glass of sweet tea or a crisp white wine makes the perfect beverage pairing.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet?
Yes, frozen shrimp work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before coating with the butter and cajun seasoning to ensure they cook evenly and don’t release excess water into the dish.

How spicy is this dish?
With both cayenne pepper and red pepper flakes, this recipe has a moderate kick. For a milder version, reduce or omit the cayenne pepper. For extra heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce at the end.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Brown rice typically requires about 35-40 minutes to cook instead of 15 minutes. Add the shrimp during the last 5 minutes of cooking.

What size skillet works best for this recipe?
A 12-inch skillet with a tight-fitting lid is ideal. Make sure it’s deep enough to accommodate the rice as it expands and to prevent overflowing when stirring.

Can I prepare the Cajun seasoning in advance?
Absolutely! Mix up a larger batch and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. It’s perfect for quickly seasoning other dishes like grilled chicken, roasted potatoes, or even popcorn for a spicy snack.

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