Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pan dish is a true winner because it’s simple, quick, and incredibly delicious. The creamy sauce makes the rice ultra-tender, and the shrimp absorb all the rich flavors while staying juicy and tender. It’s a complete meal that requires minimal prep and only one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the dish is customizable—add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a romantic date night, this creamy shrimp and rice is sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the shrimp and rice:

1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 cup onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter flavor)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh thyme if preferred)
Salt and pepper to taste

For garnish (optional):

Fresh parsley (chopped)
Lemon wedges

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the shrimp:

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat.
Add the shrimp and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the onions and garlic:

In the same pan, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, until fragrant.

3. Cook the rice:

Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, letting it lightly toast and absorb the flavors from the onions and garlic.
Add the chicken broth, heavy cream, lemon juice, and dried thyme. Stir everything together and bring to a simmer.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Check the rice halfway through, adding a little more broth or water if needed.

4. Combine the shrimp and rice:

Once the rice is cooked, add the cooked shrimp back into the pan and stir to combine. Cover and let everything sit for 2-3 minutes to ensure the shrimp are heated through and the flavors meld together.

5. Serve:

Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with lemon wedges for added brightness.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Variations

Vegetable version: Add vegetables such as spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. Stir them in with the rice and cook along with the shrimp.
Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat. You can also stir in a small amount of sriracha or chili paste.
Use other proteins: You can substitute the shrimp with chicken breast or thighs. Just cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cook them until browned and cooked through before removing and setting aside.
Gluten-free version: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but be sure to check that your broth is gluten-free if needed.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 1-2 months. Let it cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little extra broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little extra liquid if needed. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. To quickly thaw shrimp, place them in a bowl of cold water for about 10-15 minutes.

2. Can I make this dish without heavy cream?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, whole milk, or a non-dairy milk like coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the sauce may not be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and requires more liquid. You’ll need to increase the cooking time to around 40-45 minutes and possibly add more broth or water during cooking.

4. How can I make the dish spicier?

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions and garlic. You can also drizzle sriracha on top for added heat.

5. Can I add more vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add any of your favorite vegetables. Frozen peas, spinach, bell peppers, or even asparagus would be great additions. Just make sure to cook them alongside the rice to ensure they’re tender and flavorful.

6. Can I use other grains instead of rice?

Yes, you can use quinoa, couscous, or another grain instead of rice. If using quinoa, you may need to adjust the liquid and cooking time, as quinoa typically cooks faster than rice.

7. Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, this dish can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep the dish moist.

8. How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the pan?

To prevent the rice from sticking, make sure to stir it occasionally while it cooks. If you notice the rice sticking to the bottom of the pan, you can add a little extra broth or water.

9. Can I use a different protein besides shrimp?

Yes, you can substitute shrimp with chicken, tofu, . Adjust the cooking time based on the protein you choose. Make sure the chicken or other protein is fully cooked before adding it back to the rice.

10. Can I make this dish with a non-stick pan?

Yes, using a non-stick pan can help prevent the rice and shrimp from sticking. Just make sure to stir occasionally, and you can always add a little extra liquid if needed.

Conclusion

One Pan Creamy Shrimp and Rice is a delicious, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With its creamy sauce, juicy shrimp, and tender rice, this dish is packed with flavor while requiring minimal effort. The best part? It’s all made in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy date night, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Enjoy the creamy goodness in every bite!