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Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls Flavorful and Easy Recipe

by on July 6, 2025

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If you love bold flavors and quick meals, you need to try my Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls. This dish is easy, tasty, and perfect for busy nights. With tender shrimp, colorful veggies, and seasoned rice, it’s a meal everyone will enjoy. Plus, I’ll share tips to make it your own! Let’s dive into this fun, flavorful recipe that will have your taste buds dancing!

- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 green bell pepper, diced - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 2 green onions, sliced - Fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste In this recipe, the main ingredients come together to create bold flavors. The shrimp, which are the star, should be large and fresh. Use long-grain white rice for the best texture. The broth makes the rice rich and tasty. Diced bell peppers add color and crunch. I prefer a mix of red and green for a fun look. Onions and garlic bring depth to the dish. Cajun seasoning gives it a nice kick. Olive oil keeps the shrimp and veggies from sticking. Lemon juice brightens the flavor. Garnishing with green onions and parsley makes it look fresh and inviting. Salt and pepper help bring all the flavors together. Each ingredient plays a role, making this dish tasty and enjoyable. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. 2. Add the long-grain white rice, then reduce the heat to low. 3. Cover and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until fluffy. 4. Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to enhance fluffiness. 1. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet. 2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. 3. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. 4. Toss in the diced red and green bell peppers. 5. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until they soften. 1. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp. 2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. 3. Stir until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. 4. Drizzle in lemon juice, and add salt and pepper to taste. 1. Fluff the cooked rice using a fork. 2. Divide the rice evenly into serving bowls. 3. Top each bowl with the sautéed shrimp and vegetables. 1. Sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped parsley on top. 2. Serve each bowl with a lemon wedge for extra flavor. To make fluffy rice, start by measuring your rice and broth. For every cup of rice, use two cups of broth. Bring the broth to a boil before adding the rice. Lower the heat and cover it tightly. Cook for 18 to 20 minutes. After that, let it sit for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the rice absorb any leftover liquid. Fluff it gently with a fork before serving. You can make your own Cajun seasoning at home. Mix one tablespoon of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add half a tablespoon of cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and oregano. This blend gives your dish a tasty kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Store any extra seasoning in a jar for later use. To know when shrimp are cooked, watch for their color. They should turn bright pink and opaque. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough. If you’re unsure, cut one in half to check. It should be white and firm inside. Cooking shrimp perfectly makes your meal shine. Pro Tips Fresh Shrimp is Key: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend. You can always add more to taste! Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains that don’t stick together. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn to the mix for extra color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly. {{image_2}} You can switch the shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken is a great choice if you want a heartier dish. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces. Sauté it the same way you cook the shrimp. Tofu is perfect for a plant-based meal. Use firm tofu and press it to remove water. Cut it into cubes and cook until golden. Feel free to add more vegetables for extra nutrition. Zucchini works well in this dish. Slice it into half-moons and toss it in with the bell peppers. Corn is also a great option. Use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. This adds sweetness and crunch to your bowl. You can try different rice options for variety. Brown rice is a healthier choice, packed with fiber. It takes a little longer to cook, so adjust the broth and timing. Quinoa is another great swap. It cooks quickly and boosts protein. Just rinse it before cooking, then follow the same steps for rice. To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Place the shrimp and rice in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. Do not mix everything together yet. This helps to maintain the flavors and textures. When you’re ready to eat, the best way to reheat is on the stove. Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until everything is heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it may overcook the shrimp. You can freeze Cajun shrimp rice bowls if you want to save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Place the shrimp and rice in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can prepare Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls ahead. Cook the rice and shrimp separately. Store them in airtight containers. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the rice and shrimp when ready to serve. This method keeps everything fresh. You can serve Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls with a side salad or crusty bread. A fresh green salad balances the dish well. You can also add a lemon wedge for a zesty touch. Another option is to serve it with corn on the cob or coleslaw. The recipe has a mild to medium heat, depending on the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer less spice, use less seasoning. You can also skip the cayenne pepper if it’s in your blend. The dish still tastes good without the heat. To make Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls gluten-free, ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free. Most blends are safe, but check the label. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you want. The rice is naturally gluten-free, so you're all set! Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking. This method makes it easy to enjoy this dish anytime. Cajun shrimp rice bowls are simple and delicious. You learned how to cook shrimp, rice, and veggies. Remember to adjust the seasoning to fit your taste. You can switch proteins or add more veggies as you like. Store leftovers properly and reheat correctly for the best flavor. This dish is easy to prepare ahead of time. Enjoy your tasty meal with friends or family. Make it today and savor every bite!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Bold Flavors: This dish packs a punch with the bold and spicy Cajun seasoning that elevates the shrimp and veggies, making each bite bursting with flavor.
  2. Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  3. Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with fresh vegetables and lean protein from the shrimp, this rice bowl is a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap out the vegetables to suit your preferences, making this recipe versatile for everyone.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined

– 1 cup long-grain white rice

– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 1 green bell pepper, diced

– 1 small onion, finely chopped

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– 1 tablespoon lemon juice

– 2 green onions, sliced

– Fresh parsley, chopped

– Salt and pepper to taste

In this recipe, the main ingredients come together to create bold flavors. The shrimp, which are the star, should be large and fresh. Use long-grain white rice for the best texture. The broth makes the rice rich and tasty.

Diced bell peppers add color and crunch. I prefer a mix of red and green for a fun look. Onions and garlic bring depth to the dish. Cajun seasoning gives it a nice kick.

Olive oil keeps the shrimp and veggies from sticking. Lemon juice brightens the flavor. Garnishing with green onions and parsley makes it look fresh and inviting.

Salt and pepper help bring all the flavors together. Each ingredient plays a role, making this dish tasty and enjoyable.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Rice

1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan.

2. Add the long-grain white rice, then reduce the heat to low.

3. Cover and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until fluffy.

4. Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to enhance fluffiness.

Preparing the Shrimp and Vegetables

1. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet.

2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic.

3. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Toss in the diced red and green bell peppers.

5. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until they soften.

Cooking the Shrimp

1. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp.

2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes.

3. Stir until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.

4. Drizzle in lemon juice, and add salt and pepper to taste.

Assembling the Bowls

1. Fluff the cooked rice using a fork.

2. Divide the rice evenly into serving bowls.

3. Top each bowl with the sautéed shrimp and vegetables.

Garnishing and Serving

1. Sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped parsley on top.

2. Serve each bowl with a lemon wedge for extra flavor.

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Rice

To make fluffy rice, start by measuring your rice and broth. For every cup of rice, use two cups of broth. Bring the broth to a boil before adding the rice. Lower the heat and cover it tightly. Cook for 18 to 20 minutes. After that, let it sit for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the rice absorb any leftover liquid. Fluff it gently with a fork before serving.

Customizing the Seasoning

You can make your own Cajun seasoning at home. Mix one tablespoon of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add half a tablespoon of cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and oregano. This blend gives your dish a tasty kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Store any extra seasoning in a jar for later use.

Cooking Shrimp Tips

To know when shrimp are cooked, watch for their color. They should turn bright pink and opaque. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough. If you’re unsure, cut one in half to check. It should be white and firm inside. Cooking shrimp perfectly makes your meal shine.

Pro Tips

  1. Fresh Shrimp is Key: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
  2. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend. You can always add more to taste!
  3. Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains that don’t stick together.
  4. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn to the mix for extra color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Variations

Protein Alternatives

You can switch the shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken is a great choice if you want a heartier dish. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces. Sauté it the same way you cook the shrimp. Tofu is perfect for a plant-based meal. Use firm tofu and press it to remove water. Cut it into cubes and cook until golden.

Adding More Vegetables

Feel free to add more vegetables for extra nutrition. Zucchini works well in this dish. Slice it into half-moons and toss it in with the bell peppers. Corn is also a great option. Use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. This adds sweetness and crunch to your bowl.

Different Rice Options

You can try different rice options for variety. Brown rice is a healthier choice, packed with fiber. It takes a little longer to cook, so adjust the broth and timing. Quinoa is another great swap. It cooks quickly and boosts protein. Just rinse it before cooking, then follow the same steps for rice.

Storage Info

Refrigeration Tips

To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Place the shrimp and rice in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. Do not mix everything together yet. This helps to maintain the flavors and textures.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to eat, the best way to reheat is on the stove. Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until everything is heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it may overcook the shrimp.

Freezing Recommendations

You can freeze Cajun shrimp rice bowls if you want to save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Place the shrimp and rice in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls ahead. Cook the rice and shrimp separately. Store them in airtight containers. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the rice and shrimp when ready to serve. This method keeps everything fresh.

What can I serve with Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls?

You can serve Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls with a side salad or crusty bread. A fresh green salad balances the dish well. You can also add a lemon wedge for a zesty touch. Another option is to serve it with corn on the cob or coleslaw.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild to medium heat, depending on the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer less spice, use less seasoning. You can also skip the cayenne pepper if it’s in your blend. The dish still tastes good without the heat.

How can I make it gluten-free?

To make Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls gluten-free, ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free. Most blends are safe, but check the label. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you want. The rice is naturally gluten-free, so you’re all set!

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking. This method makes it easy to enjoy this dish anytime.

Cajun shrimp rice bowls are simple and delicious. You learned how to cook shrimp, rice, and veggies. Remember to adjust the seasoning to fit your taste. You can switch proteins or add more veggies as you like. Store leftovers properly and reheat correctly for the best flavor. This dish is easy to prepare ahead of time. Enjoy your tasty meal with friends or family. Make it today and savor every bit

- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined - 1 cup long-grain white rice - 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth - 1 red bell pepper, diced - 1 green bell pepper, diced - 1 small onion, finely chopped - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning - 1 tablespoon olive oil - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 2 green onions, sliced - Fresh parsley, chopped - Salt and pepper to taste In this recipe, the main ingredients come together to create bold flavors. The shrimp, which are the star, should be large and fresh. Use long-grain white rice for the best texture. The broth makes the rice rich and tasty. Diced bell peppers add color and crunch. I prefer a mix of red and green for a fun look. Onions and garlic bring depth to the dish. Cajun seasoning gives it a nice kick. Olive oil keeps the shrimp and veggies from sticking. Lemon juice brightens the flavor. Garnishing with green onions and parsley makes it look fresh and inviting. Salt and pepper help bring all the flavors together. Each ingredient plays a role, making this dish tasty and enjoyable. {{ingredient_image_1}} 1. Bring the chicken broth to a boil in a medium saucepan. 2. Add the long-grain white rice, then reduce the heat to low. 3. Cover and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes until fluffy. 4. Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes to enhance fluffiness. 1. While the rice cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet. 2. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. 3. Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 2 to 3 minutes. 4. Toss in the diced red and green bell peppers. 5. Cook for another 3 to 4 minutes, until they soften. 1. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp. 2. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes. 3. Stir until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. 4. Drizzle in lemon juice, and add salt and pepper to taste. 1. Fluff the cooked rice using a fork. 2. Divide the rice evenly into serving bowls. 3. Top each bowl with the sautéed shrimp and vegetables. 1. Sprinkle sliced green onions and chopped parsley on top. 2. Serve each bowl with a lemon wedge for extra flavor. To make fluffy rice, start by measuring your rice and broth. For every cup of rice, use two cups of broth. Bring the broth to a boil before adding the rice. Lower the heat and cover it tightly. Cook for 18 to 20 minutes. After that, let it sit for 5 minutes. This resting time helps the rice absorb any leftover liquid. Fluff it gently with a fork before serving. You can make your own Cajun seasoning at home. Mix one tablespoon of paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add half a tablespoon of cayenne pepper, dried thyme, and oregano. This blend gives your dish a tasty kick. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Store any extra seasoning in a jar for later use. To know when shrimp are cooked, watch for their color. They should turn bright pink and opaque. This usually takes about 3 to 4 minutes. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become tough. If you’re unsure, cut one in half to check. It should be white and firm inside. Cooking shrimp perfectly makes your meal shine. Pro Tips Fresh Shrimp is Key: For the best flavor and texture, use fresh shrimp instead of frozen. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or use a milder blend. You can always add more to taste! Rinse the Rice: Rinsing the rice before cooking helps remove excess starch, resulting in fluffier grains that don’t stick together. Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini or corn to the mix for extra color and nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly. {{image_2}} You can switch the shrimp for chicken or tofu. Chicken is a great choice if you want a heartier dish. Just cut it into bite-sized pieces. Sauté it the same way you cook the shrimp. Tofu is perfect for a plant-based meal. Use firm tofu and press it to remove water. Cut it into cubes and cook until golden. Feel free to add more vegetables for extra nutrition. Zucchini works well in this dish. Slice it into half-moons and toss it in with the bell peppers. Corn is also a great option. Use fresh, frozen, or canned corn. This adds sweetness and crunch to your bowl. You can try different rice options for variety. Brown rice is a healthier choice, packed with fiber. It takes a little longer to cook, so adjust the broth and timing. Quinoa is another great swap. It cooks quickly and boosts protein. Just rinse it before cooking, then follow the same steps for rice. To store leftovers, let the dish cool first. Place the shrimp and rice in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh for up to three days. Do not mix everything together yet. This helps to maintain the flavors and textures. When you’re ready to eat, the best way to reheat is on the stove. Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir gently until everything is heated through. Avoid the microwave, as it may overcook the shrimp. You can freeze Cajun shrimp rice bowls if you want to save some for later. First, let them cool completely. Place the shrimp and rice in a freezer-safe bag or container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. They can stay frozen for up to three months. To thaw, move them to the fridge overnight before reheating. Yes, you can prepare Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls ahead. Cook the rice and shrimp separately. Store them in airtight containers. Keep them in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat the rice and shrimp when ready to serve. This method keeps everything fresh. You can serve Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls with a side salad or crusty bread. A fresh green salad balances the dish well. You can also add a lemon wedge for a zesty touch. Another option is to serve it with corn on the cob or coleslaw. The recipe has a mild to medium heat, depending on the Cajun seasoning. If you prefer less spice, use less seasoning. You can also skip the cayenne pepper if it’s in your blend. The dish still tastes good without the heat. To make Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls gluten-free, ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free. Most blends are safe, but check the label. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth if you want. The rice is naturally gluten-free, so you're all set! Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls. Just thaw them first. Place the shrimp in cold water for about 15 minutes. Pat them dry before cooking. This method makes it easy to enjoy this dish anytime. Cajun shrimp rice bowls are simple and delicious. You learned how to cook shrimp, rice, and veggies. Remember to adjust the seasoning to fit your taste. You can switch proteins or add more veggies as you like. Store leftovers properly and reheat correctly for the best flavor. This dish is easy to prepare ahead of time. Enjoy your tasty meal with friends or family. Make it today and savor every bite!

Cajun Shrimp Rice Bowls

A flavorful dish featuring shrimp sautéed with Cajun spices, served over fluffy rice and colorful vegetables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Cajun
Servings 4
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 unit red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 unit green bell pepper, diced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 2 unit green onions, sliced (for garnish)
  • 1 unit fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • to taste unit salt and pepper

Instructions
 

  • In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is fluffy and the broth is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  • While the rice is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
  • Toss in the diced red and green bell peppers and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften.
  • Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp and add them to the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally. Add the lemon juice, season with salt and pepper, and mix well.
  • Fluff the cooked rice with a fork, then divide the rice evenly into serving bowls. Top with the sautéed Cajun shrimp and vegetables.
  • Sprinkle with sliced green onions and chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately.

Notes

Serve in deep bowls to layer the rice at the bottom, topped with the vibrant shrimp and veggies. Add a lemon wedge on the side for an extra zing when served. Enjoy!
Keyword cajun, dinner, easy, rice, shrimp

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