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cajun shrimp and rice

Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Ready in Just 30 Minutes


  • Author: lucy
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Low Calorie

Description

A flavorful and easy one-pan dish featuring spicy Cajun shrimp and rice.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails off)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 green bell pepper, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (uncooked)
  • 3 cups chicken broth (or seafood broth)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste (optional, for color and depth)
  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust based on broth)
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
  • Optional: lemon wedges, hot sauce

Instructions

  1. Season shrimp: Pat shrimp dry and toss with 1 tsp Cajun seasoning and paprika.
  2. Sear shrimp: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear shrimp 1–2 minutes per side until just pink. Remove to a plate.
  3. Sauté veggies: Add remaining 1 tbsp olive oil. Cook onion and bell peppers 3–4 minutes until slightly softened. Stir in garlic for 30 seconds.
  4. Toast rice: Add rice to the skillet and stir 1 minute to coat and lightly toast.
  5. Simmer: Stir in broth and tomato paste (if using). Add remaining 1 tsp Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low, cover, and simmer 18–20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  6. Finish: Return shrimp to the skillet and gently fold in. Cover 2–3 minutes to warm through.
  7. Garnish: Sprinkle with parsley and serve hot (add lemon or hot sauce if you like).

Notes

  • Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
  • Use seafood broth for a richer flavor.
  • Serve with lemon wedges for extra brightness.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 60g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 32g
  • Cholesterol: 180mg

Keywords: cajun shrimp and rice, shrimp rice skillet, spicy shrimp and rice, easy weeknight dinner, cajun rice recipe, shrimp and rice dinner