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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet

A close-up of a cast iron skillet filled with Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Rice Skillet, topped with fresh parsley.

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Make this flavorful, spicy, and creamy Cajun shrimp and rice dish entirely in one skillet for fast cleanup.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1/2 cup diced yellow onion
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 1 to 2 minutes per side until pink. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
  2. Add the onion, celery, and bell pepper to the same skillet. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables soften.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to coat with the seasonings for 1 minute.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Do not lift the lid during simmering.
  6. Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the mixture becomes creamy.
  7. Return the cooked shrimp to the skillet. Stir gently to combine and heat through for 1 minute.
  8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a smokier flavor, add 1/2 cup sliced smoked andouille sausage when you cook the onions and peppers.
  • Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spice level for your preference.
  • If the rice seems too thick before adding the cream, add a splash more broth or water.

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