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Welcome to the vibrant world of Cajun cuisine, where bold flavors and hearty meals come together to create unforgettable dishes. One of the standout recipes that embody this spirit is the Spicy Cajun Delight: One-Pan Shrimp & Rice Skillet. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds with its robust spices and succulent shrimp but also offers the convenience of a single pan, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

One-Pan Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

Discover the vibrant flavors of Cajun cuisine with this Spicy Cajun Delight: One-Pan Shrimp & Rice Skillet. This easy recipe combines succulent shrimp, aromatic vegetables, and a blend of bold spices for a hearty meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Enjoy minimal cleanup while savoring a dish rich in culture and flavor. Perfect for gatherings or family dinners, follow the steps to create a delightful, satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients
  

1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

1 cup long-grain white rice

2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

1 medium onion, finely chopped

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained

2 tablespoons Cajun spice blend (store-bought or homemade)

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon salt

½ teaspoon black pepper

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 cup frozen peas (optional)

3 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions
 

Preparation: Before you start cooking, gather all your ingredients and have them ready to go. This will streamline the cooking process.

    Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once heated, add the chopped onion and diced bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they soften.

      Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun spice blend, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

        Incorporate Rice and Broth: Add the long-grain rice to the skillet, stirring it into the onion and pepper mixture for a couple of minutes. This helps to toast the rice slightly. Pour in the chicken broth and add the drained diced tomatoes. Bring to a gentle boil.

          Cook Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed most of the liquid. If using, add the frozen peas in the last 5 minutes of cooking.

            Add Shrimp: Once the rice is ready, carefully fold in the shrimp. Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque.

              Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, and garnish with freshly chopped parsley and sliced green onions. Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an extra zing.

                Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 mins | 35 mins | Serves 4