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Cajun grilled shrimp served on a bed of fluffy brown rice with fresh cilantro garnish

Cajun Spiced Grilled Shrimp with Brown Rice

Dalime Nicola
Fire up your griddle for this Cajun Spiced Grilled Shrimp with Brown Rice—a bold, smoky, and flavor-packed dish that's ready in just 25 minutes! Juicy shrimp are coated in a spicy Cajun rub, then seared on a hot griddle for the perfect char. Served over nutty whole grain brown rice, this meal is not only quick and easy but also healthy and satisfying. Whether you're cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this one-pan griddle recipe is sure to be a hit!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian-American
Servings 1 1 plate per serving
Calories 350 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Ingredients:
  • For the Shrimp:
  • 1 lb large shrimp peeled & deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tbsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp granulated garlic
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp cayenne pepper adjust to taste
  • For the Brown Rice:
  • 1 cup whole grain brown rice
  • 2 cups water or broth
  • ½ tsp salt
  • Garnish:
  • Fresh cilantro chopped
  • Fresh lime wedges optional

Instructions
 

  • Instructions:
  • Cook the Brown Rice:
  • Bring 2 cups of water (or broth) to a boil.
  • Stir in 1 cup brown rice and ½ tsp salt, then reduce heat.
  • Cover and simmer for 20 minutes or until tender.
  • Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:
  • In a small bowl, mix smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic, cumin, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
  • Coat the Shrimp:
  • Toss the shrimp in 2 tbsp olive oil and the spice mix until evenly coated.
  • Heat the Griddle:
  • Preheat your griddle to medium-high heat and add a light drizzle of oil.
  • Cook the Shrimp:
  • Place the shrimp on the hot griddle in a single layer.
  • Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly charred.
  • Plate & Serve:
  • Spoon cooked brown rice onto plates.
  • Top with grilled Cajun shrimp and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
  • Optional: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish for extra zest.

Notes

Additional Notes:
✅ Marinate for More Flavor: Let the shrimp sit in the seasoning for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
✅ Control the Heat: Adjust cayenne pepper for more or less spice.
✅ Meal Prep Tip: Make extra brown rice and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.