Name: Cajun Shrimp and Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups); 1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced; 1 teaspoon garlic, minced; parsley, chopped for garnish; 1 medium lemon, cut into wedges; 1 pound large uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 ½ cups (277.5 g) uncooked long-grain white rice; 3 cups (720 g) chicken broth; 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided

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Introduction

Cajun Shrimp and Rice is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp with seasoned rice and vegetables. This one-pot recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and full of Southern-inspired spice.

A large white pan filled with cooked rice that is light yellow in color, mixed with small pieces of red bell pepper scattered throughout. On top and mixed inside the rice, there are several medium-sized shrimp that are cooked with a golden-brown sear, giving them a slightly crispy texture and a rich orange color. The shrimp are sprinkled with finely chopped green herbs. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
1 red bell pepper, seeded and diced
1 teaspoon garlic, minced
1 ½ cups (277.5 g) uncooked long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
3 cups (720 g) chicken broth
1 pound large uncooked shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 medium lemon, cut into wedges
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a large pot with a tight-fitting lid, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
Step 2: Add the diced onion and red bell pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for one more minute, stirring frequently.
Step 4: Stir in the uncooked rice and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Ensure the rice is evenly coated with the seasoning and combined well with the vegetables.
Step 5: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Remove the pot from heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for an additional 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and fluff up. Afterward, fluff the rice gently with a fork.
Step 7: While the rice is resting, prepare the shrimp by tossing them in a large bowl with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
Step 8: In a large non-stick skillet over high heat, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
Step 9: Add the seasoned shrimp to the skillet in an even layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque, being careful not to overcook.
Step 10: Fold the cooked shrimp into the rice and vegetable mixture, combining gently to distribute evenly.
Step 11: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.

Tips & Variations

For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the shrimp before cooking.
Try swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it pescatarian-friendly.
Use brown rice instead of white, but increase cooking time and broth accordingly.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. Avoid overcooking shrimp during reheating to keep them tender.

How to Serve

The dish is served in a shallow white bowl filled with a base layer of fluffy white rice mixed with small pieces of red bell pepper. On top, there is a generous layer of grilled shrimp, each shrimp golden brown with visible seasoning and a slight char, arranged to showcase their curved shapes. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with a silver fork resting on the edge. In the background, there is a lemon wedge and some green herbs slightly blurred, enhancing the fresh and vibrant look of the meal. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp, but be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before seasoning and cooking to prevent excess moisture.

Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?

Cajun seasoning typically has a moderate level of heat with a blend of spices like paprika, garlic, and cayenne pepper. You can adjust the amount used based on your preferred spice level.