Shrimp Rice Recipe

Nothing beats a perfectly cooked shrimp rice recipe that brings restaurant flavors right to your kitchen table. After years of testing different methods, I've discovered the key secrets that transform ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary meal that rivals any takeout.

This shrimp rice recipe combines tender, juicy shrimp with perfectly seasoned rice in just 30 minutes. Whether you're cooking dinner for busy weeknights or preparing a special occasion meal, this foolproof method delivers consistent, delicious results every single time.

Why This Shrimp Rice Recipe Rules the Kitchen

The beauty of this shrimp rice recipe lies in its versatility and simplicity. Unlike complicated seafood dishes that require hours of preparation, this recipe uses basic pantry ingredients to create complex, satisfying flavors that please everyone at the table.

What sets this shrimp rice recipe apart is the layered cooking technique that infuses every grain of rice with rich, savory flavors. The combination of perfectly seared shrimp and aromatic jasmine rice creates a complete meal that's both nutritious and incredibly satisfying for any occasion.

Jump to:

• Ingredients
• Instructions
• Expert Cooking Tips
• Recipe Variations & Substitutions
• Equipment Recommendations
• Storage & Meal Prep Tips
• Grandma's Secret That Changed Everything
• FAQ
• Perfect Pairings for Your Next Meal
• Related
• Pairing
• Shrimp Rice Recipe

Ingredients

For the Shrimp:

• Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Paprika
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Butter

For the Rice:

• Red pepper flakes
• Jasmine rice
• Chicken broth
• Onion, diced
• Bell pepper, chopped
• Soy sauce
• Lemon juice
• Green onions, sliced

See recipe card for quantities.

Instructions

Prepare the Perfect Rice Base

1. Rinse jasmine rice under cold water until water runs clear, about 2-3 minutes
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat
3. Add diced onion and bell pepper, cook for 4-5 minutes until softened
4. Stir in rice and cook for 2 minutes until lightly toasted
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes

Season and Sear the Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp completely dry with paper towels
2. Season with salt, pepper, and paprika on both sides
3. Heat remaining olive oil in another large pan over high heat
4. Add shrimp in single layer, cook 2 minutes without moving
5. Flip and cook another 1-2 minutes until pink and cooked through
6. Add minced garlic and butter, toss for 30 seconds

Combine and Finish

1. Garnish with sliced green onions and red pepper flakes This shrimp rice recipe creates perfect harmony between tender seafood and fluffy rice.
2. Remove rice from heat and let stand 5 minutes
3. Fluff rice with fork and stir in soy sauce and lemon juice
4. Gently fold in cooked shrimp with all pan juices

Expert Cooking Tips

Temperature Control Secrets

• Getting the temperature right makes all the difference in this recipe. Cook shrimp over high heat for perfect searing, but don't overcook them or they'll become rubbery. The internal temperature should reach 145°F.

Rice Texture Mastery

• For fluffy, separate grains, always rinse your jasmine rice thoroughly before cooking. This removes excess starch that can make your rice sticky or gummy.

Timing Coordination

• Start your rice first, then begin preparing the shrimp when the rice has about 10 minutes left to cook. This ensures both components finish at the same time.

Flavor Building Techniques

• Toast the rice briefly in oil before adding liquid for deeper flavor
• Save the shrimp cooking juices and add them back to the rice
• Let the rice rest off heat for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork

Kitchen Equipment Tips

• Use a heavy-bottomed pan for even heat distribution when cooking rice. A large skillet works best for searing shrimp without overcrowding.

Recipe Variations & Substitutions

Dietary Modifications

• Transform this dish for different dietary needs easily. For a gluten-free version, replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for vegetarian friends.

Regional Flavor Twists

• Create a Cajun shrimp and rice version by adding cajun seasoning, celery, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. For Asian-inspired flavors, include ginger, sesame oil, and a splash of rice vinegar.

Protein Alternatives

• Substitute chicken breast for shrimp, cooking until internal temperature reaches 165°F
• Try scallops for an elegant seafood variation
• Use firm tofu cubes for a vegetarian protein option

Vegetable Additions

• Boost nutrition by adding frozen peas, diced tomatoes, or broccoli florets during the last few minutes of rice cooking. Mushrooms and zucchini also work wonderfully.

Rice Substitutions

• While jasmine rice works best, you can use basmati rice or brown rice. Adjust cooking time accordingly; brown rice needs about 45 minutes total cooking time.

Equipment Recommendations

• The right tools make this shrimp rice recipe even easier to execute perfectly. A heavy-bottomed saucepan with tight-fitting lid ensures even rice cooking without burning or sticking.

Essential Tools:

• Large skillet or wok for searing shrimp
• Medium saucepan with lid for rice
• Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon for stirring

Optional but Helpful:

• Rice cooker for foolproof rice every time
• Cast iron skillet for superior heat retention
• Microplane grater for fresh garlic

Storage & Meal Prep Tips

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover shrimp rice recipe in airtight containers for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. The flavors actually improve overnight as they meld together.

Freezing Instructions

• This dish freezes well for up to 2 months. Portion into individual servings for easy reheating. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating Methods

• Microwave: Add 1-2 tablespoons water, cover, and heat in 30-second intervals
• Stovetop: Add splash of broth, heat in covered pan over low heat
• Oven: Cover with foil, heat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes

Meal Prep Strategy

• Cook rice and shrimp separately, then combine when ready to eat. This prevents overcooking the shrimp during reheating.to freezing for X days/weeks/months.

FAQ

Perfect Pairings for Your Next Meal

This versatile shrimp rice recipe is perfect for any occasion and pairs beautifully with fresh, light dishes that balance its rich, savory flavors. Whether you're planning a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this shrimp rice recipe stands out with its comforting yet elevated taste. Serve this shrimp rice recipe on its own or alongside your favorite sides; either way, it delivers restaurant-quality flavor in every bite. The blend of tender shrimp and seasoned rice in this shrimp rice recipe creates a satisfying and wholesome base that works with many different flavor profiles. Simple, reliable, and full of flavor, this shrimp rice recipe is a must-have in every home cook’s rotation.

For a complete meal experience, try serving this shrimp rice recipe alongside our Lemon Dill Rice Recipe for a refreshing contrast, or turn up the heat with our Spicy Chicken Tacos Recipe for a bold fusion twist. These flavorful sides pair beautifully with the shrimp rice recipe, enhancing every bite and creating a well-rounded dining experience. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this shrimp rice recipe shines when matched with vibrant, complementary dishes. It’s a versatile main course that allows you to explore a range of flavors while maintaining delicious balance on your plate.

With love from my kitchen to yours
By Lisa Johnson 💕

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