This Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal that’s full of flavor! Juicy shrimp, veggies, and spicy seasonings come together with rice for a tasty dish that’s easy to make.
You won’t believe how quickly this comes together—perfect for busy nights! I love how it’s a complete meal, so I can skip the side dishes. Plus, it’s way more fun to eat out of one pan! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Shrimp: Large shrimp are perfect here, but if you prefer something different, try using chicken breast or sausage for a similar flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may take longer to cook than shrimp.
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor to the dish. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, or you can skip the bacon entirely and use a bit of smoked paprika for that smoky taste.
Rice: Long grain white rice is ideal, but brown rice can also be used, although cooking time will be longer. For a gluten-free option, use quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought Cajun seasoning is convenient, but homemade blends are easy too! Mix paprika, cayenne, thyme, and oregano for your own custom mix.
How Do I Cook the Rice Perfectly?
Cooking rice to perfection makes a huge difference in this dish. Here’s how to ensure fluffy rice every time:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents stickiness.
- Toast the rice in the skillet with the veggies for a minute or so before adding broth. This enhances the nutty flavor!
- Always use the right ratio of liquid to rice. For long grain rice, typically 2 cups of liquid (chicken broth in this case) for every 1 cup of rice.
- Don’t peek while it’s simmering! Keeping the lid on helps the rice cook evenly.
With these tips and insights, you’ll be ready to make a delicious Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet that’s sure to impress!
Cajun Shrimp And Rice Skillet
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 3-4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lemon, cut into wedges
- Salt and pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10-15 minutes for prep and around 30 minutes for cooking. In total, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes from start to finish enjoying this delicious Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it’s nice and crisp. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel. Make sure to keep the bacon fat in the skillet as it adds amazing flavor to the dish!
2. Sauté the Shrimp:
Add a bit of olive oil or butter to the skillet if needed. Now toss in the shrimp and sprinkle them with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Sauté until the shrimp turn pink and are fully cooked, which will take about 2-3 minutes per side. Once they’re ready, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, throw in the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté these over medium heat until they’re soft and tender, which should take about 5 minutes. Your kitchen will start to smell amazing!
4. Add Garlic and Rice:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to bring out its flavor. Next, add the uncooked rice to the skillet, stirring well to coat it with all those flavorful bits and veggies.
5. Incorporate Broth and Seasoning:
Pour in the chicken broth and sprinkle in the remaining Cajun seasoning. Bring it all to a gentle boil—it’s where the magic happens!
6. Simmer the Rice:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer. Cook until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed, which should be about 15-18 minutes. Resist the urge to peek too often!
7. Combine Everything:
After the rice is cooked, fold in the cooked shrimp and crispy bacon. Gently mix everything to combine and allow it to warm through.
8. Season and Serve:
Give your dish a taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking. For the final touch, garnish with sliced green onions, chopped parsley, and place those lemon wedges on the side for a fresh squeeze just before eating!
Enjoy this hearty, flavorful Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet straight from the pan! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can do this by placing them in the refrigerator overnight or by submerging them in a sealed plastic bag in cold water for about 20-30 minutes. Pat them dry before adding to the skillet to ensure they sear nicely.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Bacon?
Yes, you can! If you want to skip the bacon, you can substitute it with a little olive oil for cooking or add some smoked paprika to retain that smoky flavor. This will keep the dish lighter while still delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help restore moisture.
Is There a Vegetarian Version of This Dish?
Definitely! You can replace the shrimp and bacon with hardy vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and add some beans for extra protein. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to taste for a flavorful vegetarian dish!
