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Cajun Shrimp and Rice Recipe

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4.2 from 10 reviews

This flavorful Cajun Shrimp and Rice recipe combines aromatic spices with succulent shrimp and tender jasmine rice cooked together in a skillet for a quick, satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish boasts a spicy Cajun seasoning blend, vibrant vegetables, and a comforting one-pot method.

  • Author: Emma
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Ingredients

Cajun Seasoning

  • 1 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (reserve from above)
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1 red bell pepper (diced)
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic (grated or minced)
  • 1 cup uncooked jasmine or basmati rice (rinsed under cold water and drained)
  • 2 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • Scallions for topping (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make Cajun Seasoning: In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, dried oregano, black pepper, kosher salt, and cayenne pepper to create your Cajun seasoning blend.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a deep 12″ skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and red bell pepper, sautéing until soft, approximately 3-4 minutes. Stir in grated or minced garlic and cook an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Cook Rice: Stir the rinsed rice and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning into the skillet. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth, stir to combine, and bring to a low boil. Once boiling, cover with a lid, reduce heat to low, and let it cook undisturbed for 10 minutes.
  4. Season Shrimp: While the rice cooks, pat shrimp dry with paper towels and toss in a bowl with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  5. Add Shrimp and Finish Cooking: Spread the seasoned shrimp evenly on top of the partially cooked rice in a single layer. Cover again with the lid and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until shrimp turn opaque and rice is tender. Avoid overcooking the shrimp.
  6. Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with sliced scallions if desired, then serve hot directly from the skillet.

Notes

  • Make sure to rinse the rice thoroughly to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
  • Use low sodium chicken broth to control salt levels and enhance flavor.
  • You can substitute shrimp with chicken or sausage if preferred.
  • Adjust cayenne pepper to control the spice level according to your taste.
  • Do not lift the lid frequently while cooking rice to ensure proper steaming.