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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

Close-up of Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet served directly in a stainless steel skillet, topped with parsley.
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Make this simple, one-pan meal featuring tender shrimp in a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce served over rice.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Season the shrimp lightly with half of the Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the remaining Cajun seasoning, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 30 seconds.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the uncooked rice. Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 15 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed most of the liquid.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Cook gently until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 minutes.
  7. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir to coat the shrimp in the sauce and heat through for 1 minute. Do not overcook the shrimp.
  8. Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For the best creaminess, use heavy cream or half-and-half. Do not boil the sauce after adding the cream.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the spice level for your preference.
  • If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash more chicken broth or milk to reach your desired consistency.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookerycourier.com/creamy-cajun-shrimp-and-rice-skillet/