Chili Lime Shrimp Rice Pilaf

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s both wholesome and quick to prepare, look no further than this Chili Lime Shrimp Rice Pilaf. This dish beautifully combines juicy shrimp with zesty lime and a touch of chili, all nestled in a bed of fluffy rice pilaf enriched with sweet corn and crunchy bell peppers. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this recipe strikes the ideal balance between spice and freshness, bringing a pop of color and taste to your table.

Reasons to Love Chili Lime Shrimp Rice Pilaf

There are so many reasons why this Chili Lime Shrimp Rice Pilaf deserves a spot in your recipe collection. First, the shrimp are perfectly seasoned with chili powder and fresh lime juice, offering a lively tang and gentle heat that awakens your taste buds. The rice pilaf base is comforting yet exciting, enhanced with the sweetness of corn and the earthiness of cumin. It’s a one-pan meal that’s both filling and light, making it a great choice for any season. Plus, it’s ready in under 40 minutes, which is a win for busy cooks who want something delicious without hours in the kitchen.

This dish also lends itself beautifully to customization. You can swap out the frozen corn for fresh when in season or add in other veggies like peas or diced zucchini. The fresh cilantro garnish adds a burst of herbal brightness that perfectly complements the citrus and spice. And if you enjoy shrimp, you might also love trying recipes like Air Fryer Shrimp Fajitas Recipe or Grilled Shrimp Kabobs for more flavorful seafood ideas.

What You’ll Need

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – fresh or thawed works great
• 1 cup long-grain white rice – the base of your pilaf
• 2 cups chicken broth – for cooking the rice with extra flavor
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – to sauté your veggies and shrimp
• 1 onion, chopped – adds sweetness and depth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – for aromatic punch
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – provides vibrant color and crunch
• 1 cup frozen corn – adds a hint of sweetness
• 1 lime, juiced and zested – essential for that fresh citrus zing
• 1 teaspoon chili powder – brings warmth and mild heat
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin – for a subtle smoky earthiness
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish – brightens up the dish

Gear Up: What to Grab

• Large skillet or sauté pan – for cooking shrimp and veggies
• Medium saucepan with lid – to cook the rice perfectly
• Sharp knife and cutting board – for prepping onions, peppers, and garlic
• Citrus zester or microplane – to zest the lime
• Measuring cups and spoons – for precise seasoning and broth
• Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir without scratching your pans

Make Chili Lime Shrimp Rice Pilaf: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Begin by rinsing 1 cup of long-grain white rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and ensures fluffy rice. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Add the rinsed rice, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 15-18 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Once done, remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Veggies

While the rice cooks, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the diced red bell pepper and frozen corn, stirring occasionally, until the peppers start to soften, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Season and Cook the Shrimp

In a small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning over the peeled and deveined shrimp. Push the vegetables to the side of the skillet and add the shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook, or the shrimp will become rubbery.

Step 4: Combine and Finish

Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the shrimp and veggies. Stir everything together gently to combine. Add the juice and zest of 1 lime, tossing to evenly distribute that zesty brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Remove from heat and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro. Serve hot and enjoy this colorful, flavorful meal!

Make It Year-Round

• Use frozen shrimp when fresh shrimp aren’t available to keep the recipe accessible anytime.
• Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a lighter or vegetarian-friendly option.
• Experiment with other vibrant veggies like peas, zucchini, or diced tomatoes for variety.
• Try swapping white rice with brown rice or Jeera Rice Cumin Rice for a different grain profile.
• Keep lime juice and zest handy frozen in small batches to add freshness even out of season.

Don’t Do This

• Don’t skip rinsing the rice – it helps keep your pilaf fluffy and prevents clumping.
• Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they cook quickly and become tough if left too long.
• Don’t forget to zest the lime before juicing—it adds a lovely aromatic note that juice alone can’t replicate.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan when cooking shrimp; cook in batches if necessary to get a nice sear.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Chili Lime Shrimp Rice Pilaf makes a great meal prep option. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep the rice moist. For best texture, avoid freezing cooked shrimp as it can alter their consistency, but you can cook the rice and veggies ahead and add freshly cooked shrimp when ready to serve.

Popular Questions

Can I use other types of rice for this pilaf?

Absolutely! While long-grain white rice works best for its fluffy texture, you can substitute with brown rice or even a flavorful Jeera Rice Cumin Rice for extra aromatic layers. Just be mindful that cooking times and liquid ratios may vary.

What if I don’t like spicy food? Can I skip the chili powder?

Yes, you can adjust the chili powder to your taste or omit it altogether for a milder dish. The lime zest and juice still provide plenty of bright flavor without the heat.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as your chicken broth is certified gluten-free. Always check labels to be sure.

How do I know when the shrimp are perfectly cooked?

Shrimp cook very quickly—usually 2-3 minutes per side. They’re done when they turn pink and opaque, curling slightly but not tightly. Overcooked shrimp will be rubbery, so keep an eye on them!

Because You Liked This

• Try these Air Fryer Shrimp Fajitas Recipe for a smoky, spicy twist on shrimp.
• Enjoy the smoky char and tender shrimp in these easy Grilled Shrimp Kabobs.
• Explore the fragrant simplicity of Jeera Rice Cumin Rice as a side or base for other dishes.

Final Thoughts

Chili Lime Shrimp Rice Pilaf is a delightful dish that brings together the best of fresh seafood, zesty citrus, and comforting grains. Its ease of preparation, vibrant ingredients, and balanced flavors make it a staple-worthy recipe for any home cook. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a dish to impress guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts. Plus, with simple swaps and variations, it’s a versatile meal to enjoy all year long. So grab your skillet, zest that lime, and dive into a bowl of bright, spicy, and satisfying goodness tonight!

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