Save Succulent shrimp marinated in a smoky chipotle-lime sauce perfectly grilled and served over fluffy cilantro-lime rice a vibrant zesty dish with a touch of heat.
I first made this chipotle lime shrimp with rice for a summer cookout with friends and everyone kept asking for seconds. The bright lime and fresh cilantro bring such a lively twist to classic grilled shrimp—a family favorite ever since!
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: 1 lb (450 g) peeled and deveined
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp divided
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp (about 1 lime) divided
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: 1 tbsp finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves minced
- Honey: 1 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp for shrimp 1/2 tsp for rice
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- White rice: 1 cup long grain
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups
- Lime zest: Zest of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup chopped
- Lime wedges: For garnish
- Extra cilantro: For garnish
Instructions
- Marinate Shrimp:
- In a bowl whisk olive oil lime juice chipotle peppers garlic honey cumin paprika salt and pepper. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Marinate in refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Cook Rice:
- While shrimp marinates rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan heat olive oil over medium. Add rice and stir for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Simmer & Fluff:
- Add water or broth and salt. Bring to a boil reduce to low cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat fluff with fork stir in lime zest juice and cilantro.
- Grill Shrimp:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Thread shrimp onto skewers. Grill 2 to 3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred.
- Serve:
- Arrange grilled shrimp over rice. Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro.
Save My kids love to squeeze extra lime juice over their shrimp and the pretty green cilantro always reminds me of sharing easy meals together after swim practice in the backyard.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables or a side of avocado salad for added freshness.
Ingredient Substitutions
Try brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a whole grain base and adjust chipotle for preferred spice level.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
Contains shellfish (shrimp). All other ingredients are naturally gluten and dairy free but check packaged products for cross contamination. Each serving has about 340 calories 9 g fat 38 g carbs and 27 g protein.
Save This chipotle lime shrimp and rice is an easy way to brighten up dinner any night with bold flavors and minimal prep. Perfect for entertaining or a tasty weeknight treat.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How do I prevent shrimp from sticking to the grill?
Ensure the grill is well-oiled before heating. Soak wooden skewers in water before threading shrimp to avoid burning and sticking.
- → Can any type of rice be used for the cilantro lime rice?
Long grain white rice works best for fluffy, separated grains, but brown rice or quinoa can be substituted for a heartier texture.
- → How long should I marinate the shrimp?
Marinate the shrimp for at least 15 minutes and up to 30 minutes to allow the chipotle-lime flavors to penetrate without overpowering the texture.
- → Is it possible to make this dish spicier?
Yes, increase the amount of chipotle peppers or add a pinch of cayenne to the marinade for extra heat.
- → What are some good side dishes to serve with this meal?
Grilled vegetables or a fresh avocado salad offer complementary flavors and textures to balance the smoky and citrus notes.
- → Can I prepare the rice ahead of time?
Yes, the cilantro lime rice can be cooked in advance and gently reheated before serving to maintain its freshness and flavor.