Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bursting with flavor: The Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy kick to the chicken and shrimp.
- Well-balanced meal: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats from avocado, and fiber-rich brown rice.
- Customizable: Easily adapt to your taste preferences or dietary needs.
- Easy to make: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients for a hassle-free dish.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Chicken and shrimp:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Rice:
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Avocado:
- 1 avocado, sliced
Directions
- Cook the rice:
In a large pot, bring vegetable broth to a boil. Add the rice and salt. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Set aside. - Prepare the chicken and shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the chicken and shrimp with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper until well-coated. - Grill the proteins:
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken and shrimp separately, grilling each side until fully cooked and slightly charred (about 4-5 minutes per side for chicken, 2-3 minutes per side for shrimp). - Assemble the bowls:
Start with a base of cooked rice. Add sliced avocado, grilled chicken, and shrimp on top. - Serve and enjoy:
Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 bowls
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 25 minutes
- Total time: 35 minutes
Variations
- Spicy kick: Add an extra pinch of Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Grain swap: Substitute brown rice with white rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
- Vegetarian version: Replace chicken and shrimp with grilled tofu or roasted vegetables.
- Extra toppings: Add diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Warm the rice, chicken, and shrimp in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add fresh avocado slices just before serving.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just ensure they are thawed and patted dry before seasoning and grilling.
2. What’s the best way to grill without an outdoor grill?
A grill pan or even a broiler in your oven works well for this recipe.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the components separately and assemble them just before serving.
4. What other seasonings can I use?
Smoked paprika, garlic powder, or Old Bay seasoning are great alternatives.
5. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Pre-cooked shrimp can be used but will need only light reheating. Avoid overcooking to prevent rubbery texture.
6. How do I keep the avocado fresh?
Toss avocado slices with lime or lemon juice to prevent browning.
7. Can I add vegetables?
Absolutely! Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, or corn would pair well.
8. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.
9. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, this recipe can easily be doubled for larger servings.
10. What can I serve alongside this bowl?
A fresh side salad or crusty bread complements this meal nicely.
Conclusion
The Cajun Grilled Chicken and Shrimp Avocado Rice Bowl is a flavorful and versatile dish that balances bold spices with wholesome ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal prep option, this recipe is sure to become a household favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of the vibrant Cajun-inspired flavors!
Cajun Grilled Chicken and Shrimp Avocado Rice Bowl
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Savor the bold flavors of Cajun Grilled Chicken and Shrimp Avocado Rice Bowl, a wholesome, protein-packed meal with smoky spices, creamy avocado, and fiber-rich brown rice. Perfect for quick dinners or meal prep!
Ingredients
C
hicken and shrimp:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Rice:
- 1 cup brown rice
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Avocado:
- 1 avocado, sliced
Instructions
- Cook the rice:
- Bring vegetable broth to a boil in a pot.
- Stir in rice and salt, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15–20 minutes or until tender. Set aside.
- Prepare chicken and shrimp:
- Toss chicken and shrimp in a bowl with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Grill proteins:
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, and shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until fully cooked and slightly charred.
- Assemble bowls:
- Divide cooked rice into four bowls.
- Top with grilled chicken, shrimp, and sliced avocado.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately for optimal flavor.
Notes
- Add extra Cajun seasoning for a spicier dish.
- Toss avocado slices with lime or lemon juice to keep them fresh.
- Substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for variety.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Cajun