Chipotle Lime Shrimp Rice Bowls

If you’re craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that’s quick to whip up and packed with personality, these Chipotle Lime Shrimp Rice Bowls are exactly what you need. This dish strikes the perfect balance between smoky, tangy, and fresh, making it a crowd-pleaser any day of the week. Juicy shrimp marinated with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce and zesty lime sit atop fluffy jasmine rice cooked in rich chicken broth, accented with sweet corn, crisp red bell peppers, and creamy avocado. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or looking for a wholesome dinner, these bowls deliver bold flavors without fuss.

Why This Recipe is a Keeper

This recipe is a keeper because it combines simplicity with exciting flavors that feel anything but ordinary. The chipotle peppers lend a smoky heat that’s balanced beautifully by the brightness of lime zest and juice. Using jasmine rice cooked in chicken broth infuses the base with subtle savory notes, elevating the entire bowl. It’s also incredibly adaptable — you can swap veggies or swap the shrimp for other proteins, and it still shines. Plus, it comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Finally, the colorful ingredients make this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious, so it’s great for sharing with friends or family.

What Goes In

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – the star protein, tender and quick to cook
• 1 cup jasmine rice – fragrant and fluffy, the perfect base for soaking up all the flavors
• 2 cups chicken broth – adds depth to the rice, making it more savory than plain water
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – used for cooking the shrimp and sautéing veggies
• 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced – brings smoky heat and complexity
• 1 lime, zested and juiced – adds bright acidity to balance the spice
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder – for savory undertones
• 1 teaspoon onion powder – enhances flavor depth
• 1 teaspoon cumin – earthy warmth that complements the chipotle
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup corn kernels, fresh or frozen – sweet crunch that adds texture
• 1 red bell pepper, diced – colorful and crisp
• 2 green onions, sliced – for freshness and a mild bite
• 1 avocado, sliced – creamy richness to mellow the spice
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish – bright herbal notes to finish

Toolbox for This Recipe

• Medium saucepan – to cook the jasmine rice perfectly
• Large skillet or frying pan – for sautéing shrimp and vegetables
• Mixing bowl – to toss shrimp with spices and chipotle pepper
• Sharp knife and cutting board – for prepping veggies and herbs
• Zester or microplane – to zest the lime for maximum flavor
• Measuring spoons and cups – for precise seasoning and ingredients

Step-by-Step: Chipotle Lime Shrimp Rice Bowls

Step 1: Cook the Jasmine Rice

Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice with 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, olive oil, lime zest, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Toss the peeled and deveined shrimp in this marinade, ensuring each shrimp is coated evenly. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to soak in the bold flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp along with the marinade to the pan. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a little olive oil if needed and toss in the corn kernels and diced red bell pepper. Sauté for 4-5 minutes until the veggies are tender but still crisp. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the fluffy jasmine rice among bowls. Top each with a generous helping of chipotle lime shrimp and sautéed vegetables. Garnish with sliced green onions, avocado slices, and fresh cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.

Enjoy these vibrant bowls immediately, or pack them for a flavorful lunch option. For a fun twist, try pairing the shrimp with the fragrant Jeera Rice Cumin Rice next time you want a subtle spice variation.

Substitutions by Category

• Shrimp: Substitute with cooked chicken breast strips or firm tofu for a different protein.
• Rice: Use brown rice or quinoa for a heartier base or a gluten-free alternative.
• Vegetables: Swap bell peppers and corn with zucchini, black beans, or cherry tomatoes.
• Chipotle Pepper: Use smoked paprika and a dash of cayenne for less heat or if you can’t find chipotle in adobo.
• Broth: Vegetable broth makes a great alternative to chicken broth.

Learn from These Mistakes

• Overcooking shrimp can lead to a rubbery texture. Keep a close eye and remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
• Not letting the rice rest after cooking can make it clumpy. Allow the rice to sit covered for a few minutes before fluffing.
• Using too much chipotle in the marinade can overpower the dish. Start with 1 tablespoon and adjust next time to your heat preference.
• Skipping the lime juice and zest will make the dish lack brightness, so don’t skip this essential step.

Save for Later: Storage Tips

These bowls store beautifully for meal prep. Place cooled components in separate airtight containers to maintain freshness:

• Shrimp: Keep refrigerated and consume within 2 days.
• Rice and vegetables: Store together or separately for up to 3 days.
• Avocado: Slice fresh before serving as it browns quickly.

To reheat, warm the shrimp and rice in a skillet or microwave until hot, then garnish with fresh avocado and cilantro.

Common Qs About Chipotle Lime Shrimp Rice Bowls

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All the ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the chicken broth and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce you purchase are labeled gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.

What if I don’t have chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?

You can substitute with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper to mimic the smoky, spicy flavor. Alternatively, try this Chipotle Peach Shrimp Tacos With Slaw recipe for a creative twist on chipotle shrimp.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just be sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before marinating to ensure the spices stick and the shrimp cook evenly.

How can I make this recipe spicier or milder?

To increase the heat, add more chipotle pepper or a pinch of cayenne. To tone it down, reduce the chipotle amount and omit any additional spicy seasonings. Serving with creamy avocado also helps mellow the heat.

Because You Liked This

• Air Fryer Shrimp Fajitas Recipe – Another quick and smoky shrimp dish bursting with flavor.
• Chipotle Peach Shrimp Tacos With Slaw – A sweet and spicy shrimp taco recipe perfect for summer nights.
• Jeera Rice Cumin Rice – A fragrant rice side that complements many dishes, including shrimp bowls.

Ready to Cook?

With just a handful of ingredients and under 30 minutes of effort, these Chipotle Lime Shrimp Rice Bowls will become your go-to for a quick, vibrant, and satisfying meal. The smoky chipotle pepper combined with fresh lime and tender shrimp creates a flavor profile that’s anything but boring. Serve it up with creamy avocado and a sprinkle of cilantro, and you have a dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy.

Give it a try tonight and enjoy a bowlful of bold, bright, and hearty goodness!

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