Shrimp Dirty Rice with Bell Peppers & Spice

There’s something magical about a dish that brings together bold flavors, a touch of heat, and hearty comfort—all in one skillet. This Shrimp Dirty Rice with Bell Peppers & Spice is exactly that: a cozy, flavor-packed recipe that’s as fun to cook as it is to eat.

The combination of tender shrimp, colorful bell peppers, fluffy rice, and Cajun seasoning makes this dish both vibrant and comforting. It’s a weeknight-friendly recipe that feels like it came straight out of a New Orleans kitchen—rich with spice, yet simple enough to make even if you’re new to cooking.

If you’re craving something satisfying with a little southern flair, this recipe will hit the spot!

Recipe Info

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups long-grain rice (uncooked)
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-By-Step Instructions

1. Cook the shrimp
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season shrimp with a pinch of Cajun seasoning and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until just pink. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables
   In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil. Cook onion, bell peppers, and celery for 5 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add rice and spices
   Stir in the rice, Cajun seasoning, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let the rice toast lightly for 1–2 minutes to build flavor.
4. Simmer with broth
   Add chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir well, bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for about 18–20 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
5. Finish with shrimp
   Return shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently into the rice. Cook for 2 more minutes to warm through.
6. Serve and garnish
   Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot.

Helpful Notes & Tips

• Shrimp timing: Shrimp cook quickly—remove them as soon as they turn pink to avoid rubbery texture.
• Rice type matters: Use long-grain rice for the best fluffy consistency; short-grain rice may turn sticky.
• Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth to refresh the texture.

Recipe Variations

• Protein swap: Try chicken, smoked sausage, or even ground turkey in place of shrimp.
• Veggie boost: Add spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms during the last 5 minutes of cooking for more color and nutrients.
• Spice level: Make it milder by reducing Cajun seasoning, or add cayenne for extra heat.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with cornbread or garlic bread for a hearty meal.
• Serve alongside a simple green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to balance the spice.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon over the shrimp for a bright finishing touch.

Conclusion

This Shrimp Dirty Rice with Bell Peppers & Spice is the perfect balance of bold, cozy, and satisfying. It’s quick enough for weeknights yet special enough to serve when you want to impress. So gather your ingredients, let the Cajun spices work their magic, and enjoy a skillet full of comfort with those you love.