This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is packed with flavor! Juicy shrimp, colorful peppers, and fluffy rice all come together in one pan for an easy, delicious meal.
I love how quick it is to make, perfect for busy nights. Plus, it’s like a party in your mouth! Just throw everything in and let it cook while you kick back and relax.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, you can use frozen shrimp — just remember to thaw them before cooking. Alternatively, feel free to substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein.
Rice: Long-grain white rice is perfect for this recipe as it cooks up fluffy. If you’re trying to avoid white rice, brown rice works too, but it will need longer cooking time and more liquid. Quinoa is a great gluten-free option that can also add a different texture.
Cajun Seasoning: You can find pre-made Cajun seasoning, but making your own with spices like paprika, cayenne, oregano, and thyme is fun! If you need a milder flavor, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. For a spicier kick, add more!
Bacon: Bacon adds a nice smoky flavor to the dish. Turkey bacon or even vegetarian bacon can be a lighter alternative, while for a different flavor, try using chorizo.
How Do I Make Sure the Rice is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking rice perfectly is key for a delicious skillet! Here’s how to ensure your rice comes out just right:
- Once you add the broth, allow it to come to a gentle simmer before covering. This helps the rice absorb the flavors.
- After covering, keep the heat low and resist the temptation to lift the lid. Steam is essential for cooking the rice evenly.
- Check the rice at the end of the cooking time. If it’s still hard, add a splash more broth or water and continue cooking for a few minutes.
Cooking rice can seem tricky, but with patience and this method, you’ll get fluffy rice every time!
Cajun Shrimp And Rice Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper (red or green)
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 slices bacon, chopped
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. So, in around 30 minutes, you will have a delicious, hearty meal ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by heating a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s nice and crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, but leave all those flavorful drippings in the skillet!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter to the drippings left in the pan. Toss in the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing them for about 4-5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant. Now add the minced garlic and let it cook for about 30 seconds more to infuse that delicious flavor.
3. Toast the Rice:
Now, it’s time to add the rice! Stir it in with the veggies, making sure each grain is coated with that lovely oil and vegetable mixture. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Add the Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and a little salt and pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step is important as it allows the rice to absorb all the wonderful flavors!
5. Cook the Rice:
Once simmering, cover the skillet with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it cook for 15-18 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure it’s cooking evenly. The rice should be tender and the liquid absorbed by the end of this cooking time.
6. Prepare the Shrimp:
While the rice is cooking, take the peeled shrimp and toss them with a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning in a bowl until they are well-coated.
7. Cook the Shrimp:
In a separate pan, heat a little oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook them for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and opaque. You can keep an eye on them as they cook, as shrimp cook quickly!
8. Combine Everything:
Once the rice is cooked through, gently fold in the cooked shrimp and the crispy bacon, mixing everything evenly and allowing those flavors to meld together.
9. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle the dish with a generous amount of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, directly from the skillet, for a warm and inviting meal!
Enjoy your Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet with your favorite sides or on its own for a satisfying dish!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen shrimp! Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. The best way to thaw shrimp is to place them in a sealed bag and submerge them in cold water for about 15-20 minutes, or you can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I Substitute Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?
Yes! You can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that it requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Use about 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth for 1 cup of brown rice, and cook it for approximately 30-35 minutes until tender.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, or warm on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth to keep it moist!
What Can I Serve with Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet?
This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but you can pair it with a simple green salad, cornbread, or some sautéed greens for a complete meal! A side of coleslaw also makes a refreshing complement to the spicy flavors.