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Spicy Cajun Shrimp & Rice Bowl Recipe

Close-up of a white bowl filled with white rice topped with seasoned Spicy Cajun Shrimp & Rice Bowl ingredients.

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Follow these steps to prepare a flavorful and spicy Cajun shrimp served over seasoned rice for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

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  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • Optional garnish: chopped green onions, lemon wedges

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until all liquid is absorbed. Keep covered off the heat.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and smoked paprika to create the Cajun seasoning blend.
  4. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Toss the shrimp with half of the prepared Cajun seasoning blend.
  5. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  6. Add the butter to the same skillet. Add the chopped green pepper and onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.
  7. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  8. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Sprinkle the remaining Cajun seasoning blend over the shrimp and vegetables. Stir well to coat everything. Cook for 1 minute more.
  9. Stir the lemon juice into the shrimp mixture.
  10. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
  11. Assemble the bowls by spooning a portion of the seasoned rice into each bowl. Top with the spicy Cajun shrimp and vegetable mixture. Garnish with chopped green onions and a lemon wedge if desired.

Notes

  • For more heat, increase the cayenne pepper to 1/2 teaspoon or add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the seasoning.
  • If you prefer a ‘dirty rice’ style, sauté 2 ounces of ground sausage or bacon bits with the vegetables before adding the shrimp back.
  • Jasmine or Basmati rice can substitute for long-grain rice; adjust liquid ratios slightly if needed.

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