Easy Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Tasty Cajun Shrimp and Rice Made Simple!
Cajun Shrimp and Rice is a delicious dish featuring spicy Cajun shrimp, flavorful rice, and a zesty lemon twist for an extra burst of flavor! This dish is not just spicy and satisfying but also incredibly delicious, making it a surefire family favorite.
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp?
Certainly! Whether you have frozen raw shrimp or frozen precooked shrimp, both work fine. Just make sure to let them thaw first. Before cooking, pat the shrimp dry. Take extra care with precooked shrimp to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
Easy One-Pot Cajun Shrimp and Rice Recipe
Simple Prep and Cleanup: For an easy one-pot Cajun shrimp and rice recipe, cook the shrimp along with the rice. This not only simplifies the process but also makes cleanup a breeze! Start by seasoning the shrimp and setting them aside. Once the rice is cooked, fold the seasoned uncooked shrimp into the pot. Gently mix everything to blend the flavors. Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit on low heat for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the residual heat from the rice to cook the shrimp until they turn pink and opaque.
Storing & Reheating Tips for Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Cooling and Storing: If there's any Cajun shrimp and rice left, let it cool to room temperature. Within 2 hours of preparation, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for 3-4 days.
Reheating Options: When you're ready to enjoy it again, reheat it on the stovetop in a skillet with a touch of oil for a fresh taste. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quick and convenient way to enjoy your flavorful leftovers.
Easy Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Course: Easy Dinner Delight | Main Course | Keyword: Cajun Shrimp and Rice | Servings: 4 | Calories: 531kcal
Ingredients:
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
- 1 large yellow onion, diced (about 1 ½ cups)
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded, diced
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 ½ cups uncooked long-grain white rice (277.5 g)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 3 cups chicken broth (720 g)
- 1 pound large uncooked shrimp, peeled, deveined
- 1 medium lemon, cut into wedges
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions:
Prep the Pot:
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat.
Sauté Vegetables: Add diced onion and red bell pepper. Stir occasionally until softened (about 3-4 minutes). Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Rice Coating:
Stir in uncooked rice and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Ensure the rice is evenly coated with seasoning and combined with vegetables.
Broth Addition:
Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
Steam and Fluff:
Remove from heat, let it sit, covered, for an extra 5 minutes. This steams and fluffs the rice. Gently fluff it with a fork.
Prepare Shrimp:
In a large bowl, mix shrimp with the remaining Cajun seasoning.
Sear Shrimp:
Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter in a large non-stick skillet over high heat. Add shrimp, spread into an even layer, and cook 2-3 minutes on each side until slightly charred, pink, and opaque.
Combine Everything:
Fold the cooked shrimp into the rice and vegetable mix, gently combining.
Garnish and Serve:
Enjoy this easy-to-make Cajun Shrimp and Rice, packed with flavor for a delightful dinner!