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Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Pilaf

This Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Pilaf is bursting with flavor and easy to prepare, combining tender shrimp with fluffy rice and a rich garlic butter sauce.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time25 minutes
Total Time40 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Easy, Garlic Butter, Quick, Rice Pilaf, Shrimp
Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined, fresh or thawed frozen
  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 cup peas fresh or frozen
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  • Start by rinsing the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Set the rice aside to drain.
  • In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds without browning.
  • Add the rinsed rice to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir constantly for 2-3 minutes to toast the rice lightly.
  • Pour in 2 cups of low-sodium chicken broth and sprinkle in paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes.
  • While rice cooks, heat remaining 2 tablespoons butter in another skillet over medium-high heat. Add shrimp in a single layer, season lightly with salt and pepper, and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from heat.
  • After 15 minutes, remove rice lid and stir in peas. Cover and cook an additional 5 minutes until peas are tender and rice is fully cooked. Remove from heat and fluff rice with a fork.
  • Gently fold cooked shrimp into rice pilaf. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Serve hot and enjoy!

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring Cups and Spoons
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula

Notes

  • Use olive oil instead of butter to reduce saturated fat while keeping flavor.
  • Swap white rice for brown rice for more fiber; increase cooking time accordingly.
  • Add bell peppers or carrots for extra vitamins and fiber.
  • Use low-sodium broth or homemade broth to control saltiness.
  • Don’t overcook the shrimp to avoid rubbery texture; cook until just opaque.