Garlic Cilantro Shrimp Rice (One-Pot Flavor Explosion!)

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If you love bold flavors and easy meals, this Garlic Cilantro Shrimp Rice is going to be your new favorite! Think fluffy, garlicky rice infused with the fresh brightness of cilantro and zesty lime, topped with perfectly seasoned shrimp for a protein-packed punch. It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze while delivering restaurant-quality flavors in every bite.

This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even a casual gathering. Serve it with a side of avocado, grilled veggies, or black beans, and you’ve got a complete meal that’s fresh, hearty, and satisfying!

Enjoy more ideas with similar flavor profiles in our post, 15 Rice and Grain-Based Recipes You’ll Love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✅ One-Pot Meal – Everything cooks together for easy cleanup.
✅ Bold & Fresh – Garlic, cilantro, and lime make each bite pop.
✅ Protein-Packed – Shrimp adds a delicious, juicy touch to the rice.
✅ Perfect for Any Occasion – Weeknight-friendly yet elegant enough for guests.
✅ Customizable – Make it spicy, swap the shrimp for another protein, or add veggies!

📝 Ingredients

🔹 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
🔹 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati works best)
🔹 3 cups vegetable or chicken broth
🔹 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
🔹 4 cloves garlic, minced
🔹 ½ teaspoon cumin
🔹 ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
🔹 ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
🔹 ¼ teaspoon black pepper
🔹 ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
🔹 Juice of 1 lime
🔹 Lime wedges and extra cilantro for garnish

🌶️ Want extra heat? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño!

📌 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Season & Sear the Shrimp

✔️ Pat the shrimp dry and toss with 1 tablespoon olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
✔️ Heat a large skillet or pot over medium-high heat.
✔️ Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and slightly golden. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2️⃣ Sauté the Garlic & Rice

✔️ In the same skillet, add 2 tablespoons olive oil.
✔️ Add remaining minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
✔️ Stir in the rice, coating it in the garlicky oil. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the grains to toast slightly.

3️⃣ Simmer the Rice

✔️ Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
✔️ Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

4️⃣ Add the Cilantro & Lime

✔️ Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork.
✔️ Stir in chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice, adjusting salt if needed.

5️⃣ Return the Shrimp & Serve!

✔️ Gently fold the cooked shrimp back into the rice.
✔️ Garnish with extra cilantro and lime wedges before serving.

🍽️ Enjoy as a complete meal or serve with sautéed veggies, avocado, or a side of black beans!

🌿 Tips & Variations

✅ Make it creamy – Stir in ½ cup coconut milk for a tropical twist.
✅ Add veggies – Mix in diced bell peppers, corn, or peas for extra color.
✅ Switch the protein – Try it with chicken, tofu, or scallops instead of shrimp.
✅ Turn it into burrito bowls – Serve with beans, salsa, and avocado slices!

🛍️ Storage & Reheating

🧊 To Store – Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
🔥 To Reheat – Warm in a skillet with a splash of broth or microwave with a damp paper towel to keep the rice from drying out.
❄️ To Freeze – Let cool completely, then freeze for up to 3 months.

🌟 Tried This Recipe?

Let me know how you liked it in the comments below! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

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