This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is a one-pan wonder that’s packed with flavor! With juicy shrimp, fluffy rice, and a kick of spice, it’s perfect for a hearty meal.
You’ll love how quick it is to make, and let’s be real, who doesn’t love a dish that means less cleanup? It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone back for seconds!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this dish. If you’re not a fan of shrimp, you can swap them out for chicken or sausage. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too. Or, if you want to keep it vegetarian, omit the bacon and use olive oil instead.
Cajun Seasoning: If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, create your own using paprika, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder. This way, you can control the spice level!
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect, but you can substitute with brown rice or quinoa for a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially with brown rice.
How Do You Get Perfectly Cooked Rice?
Achieving fluffy rice can be a challenge, but it’s easier than it seems! Make sure to rinse your rice before cooking to remove excess starch, which can make it sticky.
- In the skillet, after adding chicken broth, bring it to a simmer. Do not skip this step, as it helps the rice absorb flavor.
- Once covered, keep the heat low, and avoid lifting the lid. This ensures steam stays trapped, cooking the rice evenly.
- Let it sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to help separate the grains before serving.
Cajun Shrimp And Rice Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off as preferred)
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet will take about 10 minutes of prep time and around 30 minutes total to cook. In just under an hour, you’ll have a tasty, fulfilling meal that’s perfect for family dinners or a quick weeknight treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Shrimp:
Start by patting the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a bowl, toss the cleaned shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, along with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set them aside while you get the rest of the dish ready.
2. Cook the Bacon:
In a large skillet, heat over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it turns crispy. Once done, remove the bacon using a slotted spoon and set it aside, but keep that delicious bacon fat in the pan for added flavor!
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add olive oil or butter to the skillet with the leftover bacon fat. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they’re nice and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing.
4. Toast the Rice:
Now, stir in the rice along with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Let it cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently to toast the rice slightly.
5. Add the Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and stir everything well. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it cook for about 15 minutes until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.
6. Sear the Shrimp:
While the rice is cooking, grab a separate pan and heat a bit of oil over medium-high heat. Sear the seasoned shrimp for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Then, remove them from the heat and set aside.
7. Combine Everything:
Once the rice is done, gently fold in the cooked bacon and shrimp into the rice mixture. Take a moment to taste it and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.
8. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish your dish with sliced green onions and fresh parsley if you’d like for a bit of color. Serve your Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet warm straight from the pan and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before using them. You can do this by placing them in the fridge overnight or by running them under cold water for a quick thaw. Pat them dry before seasoning to ensure they sear nicely.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to help moisten the rice again.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! If you enjoy extra heat, consider increasing the cayenne pepper or adding chopped jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables. You can also try using a spicier Cajun seasoning blend for a kick!
What Can I Serve with Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet?
This dish is delicious on its own, but you can also pair it with a fresh green salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Enjoy!
