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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

Close-up of a skillet filled with Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice, topped with fresh parsley.

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Make this flavorful, one-pan Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. It combines spicy Cajun seasoning with creamy sauce and tender shrimp cooked with rice.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until pink. Remove the shrimp and set them aside.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the same skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Stir in the uncooked rice, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  7. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
  8. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet and stir gently to coat them in the sauce. Let it sit, covered, for 2 minutes to reheat the shrimp.
  9. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preference for heat and saltiness.
  • If you do not have chicken broth, you can use water, but broth adds more flavor.
  • Use pre-cooked shrimp if you want to reduce the cooking time slightly; add them only during the final step.

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