Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Combination of succulent shrimp with aromatic Cajun spices and fluffy rice, all cooked together in one pot for easy cleanup. Get ready to bring a taste of Louisiana right to your dinner table with this simple yet flavorful recipe!
Equipment
- Heavy bottom pan with lid
- Mixing bowls
- Spatula
Ingredients
SPICES
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
FOR THE SHRIMP AND RICE
- 1 pound large shrimp, deveined, peeled, and tail on
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 1/2 cups long grain rice, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt
- 2 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley or cilantro
Instructions
MIX THE SPICES:
- In a small bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, ground black pepper, dried oregano, dried thyme, cayenne pepper, and red chili pepper flakes. Add the salt and mix to combine.
COOK THE SHRIMP AND RICE:
- In a bowl add the shrimp and half of the spice mixture. Toss to coat evenly.
- Heat a pan with oil over medium-high heat. Add the butter and let it melt.
- Add the onion and saute until tender, then saute in the garlic until aromatic.
- Add the rest of the spice mixture, rice, and salt, then stir to combine. Keep stirring until the rice gets toasted for 2 minutes.
- Pour the chicken broth and stir to loosen the rice. Let the rice boil without the lid. As soon as it boils, cover and lower the heat. Simmer until the liquid has been absorbed about 7 minutes.
- Add the shrimp and cover the pan let the shrimp cook until pink or opaque. Garnish with parsley or cilantro.
Video
Notes
What is Creole seasoning and what is Cajun seasoning?
Creole seasoning is often associated with the city of New Orleans. It tends to have a more complex flavor profile with a slightly spicy kick. Creole is more intricate and multi-layered in flavor. Cajun seasoning originates from the rural areas of Louisiana and is known for its simpler blend of spices. It is usually spicier and has a bolder flavor compared to Creole seasoning. Both can be used to add delicious depth to a wide variety of dishes, from seafood to poultry to vegetables.
What to do when you're using different types of protein aside from shrimp for this recipe.
If you're using chicken breasts, cut them into strips. Make sure to cook it first. Season the chicken with half of the spice mixture then cook until golden brown. Add the cooked chicken to the rice and cook until heated through.