Cajun Shrimp Skillet

This vibrant Cajun Shrimp Skillet delivers bold, spicy flavors in a quick and easy one-pan meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Succulent shrimp are cooked with colorful bell peppers and onions in a rich, aromatic Cajun sauce.

Cajun Shrimp Skillet
  • Prep time: 17 minutes
  • Cook time: 23 minutes
  • Total time: 40 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Difficulty: Medium
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean

Ingredients

  • 1.5 pounds large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on or off
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning blend (salt-free or low-sodium if preferred)
  • 0.5 cup chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. In a medium bowl, toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the vegetables and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  4. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the empty side. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer.
  5. Cook the shrimp for 1-2 minutes per side, until pink and just cooked through. Be careful not to overcook.
  6. Stir the shrimp into the vegetables. Sprinkle the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning over everything.
  7. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
  8. Stir in fresh thyme leaves, if using. Remove from heat.
  9. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Tips

  • Avoid overcooking the shrimp; they cook very quickly and become rubbery if left on the heat for too long.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level; some blends are hotter than others.
  • Serve this skillet meal over rice, quinoa, or with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Yes, you can control the heat by using a mild Cajun seasoning blend or reducing the amount used. You can also omit any additional red pepper flakes if your seasoning already contains them.

What vegetables can I add to this skillet?

Feel free to add other quick-cooking vegetables like zucchini, corn, or diced tomatoes. Add them at the same time as the bell peppers to ensure they cook through.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftover Cajun shrimp skillet in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp.