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Easy 45-Minute Cajun Shrimp and Rice Recipe Perfect for Busy Weeknights

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A quick and flavorful Cajun shrimp and rice dish that comes together in under 45 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights. Tender shrimp with smoky spices and fluffy rice cooked with aromatic vegetables make this a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen; wild-caught if possible)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 cup (190 g) long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati)
  • 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 bell pepper, diced (red or green)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges (for serving)

Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with 1 tablespoon olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and set aside for 10 minutes.
  2. Heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
  4. Pour in the uncooked rice and stir to coat with the veggies and oil. Toast lightly for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
  5. Add 2 cups chicken broth and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir once and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. While the rice simmers, heat a separate small skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook for 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
  7. After 15 minutes, check the rice for tenderness. Gently fold in the cooked shrimp and sliced green onions. Cover and let sit off heat for 5 minutes.
  8. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top and serve with lemon wedges.

Notes

If the rice isn’t tender after 15 minutes, add a splash more broth or water and cook a few minutes longer. Avoid lifting the lid while simmering to keep steam in. Remove shrimp from heat just as they turn opaque to avoid overcooking. Use fresh garlic and freshly ground black pepper for best flavor. Resting the dish covered for 5 minutes after cooking helps flavors meld.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun shrimp, shrimp and rice, quick dinner, weeknight meal, easy recipe, spicy shrimp, one-pan meal

Find it online: https://avabake.com/easy-45-minute-cajun-shrimp-and-rice-recipe-perfect-for-busy-weeknights/