Description
This Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is the ultimate one-pan dinner that’s bursting with buttery, garlicky flavor and bold Cajun spice. Perfect for busy weeknights, it comes together in under 30 minutes — no fancy ingredients, just simple, satisfying comfort food that’s as delicious as it is easy.
Ingredients
For the Skillet:
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1⅓ cups long-grain white rice
2⅔ cups chicken broth
4 tbsp unsalted butter, divided
1 tsp minced garlic
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Cajun Seasoning:
1 tsp smoked paprika
½ tsp garlic powder
½ tsp onion powder
½ tsp dried oregano or Italian seasoning
¼ tsp cayenne pepper
¼ tsp red pepper flakes
¼ tsp black pepper
½ tsp salt
Optional Add-ins:
Chopped bell peppers or onions
Andouille sausage slices
Fresh parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
Prep the Shrimp: Pat the shrimp dry, then toss with half of the Cajun seasoning and olive oil until well coated.
Toast the Rice: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir in the rice and cook for 1–2 minutes until lightly toasted.
Simmer: Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning. Stir, then bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and the liquid has absorbed.
Cook the Shrimp: In another pan (or after removing the rice), melt the remaining butter and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Combine & Serve: Fold the cooked shrimp into the rice, adding a splash of broth or butter if needed. Garnish with parsley or green onions, and serve with lemon wedges.
Notes
For a milder version, reduce or omit cayenne and red pepper flakes.
Add sausage for a smoky, heartier twist.
To make it dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil or vegan butter.
Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating Tip: Warm gently on the stove with a splash of broth to keep the rice fluffy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Dish / Dinner
- Method: Skillet / One-Pan
- Cuisine: Cajun / Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 1¼ cups)
- Calories: 453 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 870 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 195 mg
Keywords: Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet, one-pan shrimp dinner, spicy rice skillet, easy shrimp recipe, weeknight dinner
