Cajun Shrimp Bowl with Yellow Rice & Roasted Zucchini

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Tender Cajun-spiced shrimp sit on a bed of fluffy yellow rice, topped with roasted zucchini that’s lightly caramelized and seasoned just right. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this bowl delivers bold flavor without the stress.

Ready in: About 35 minutes

Ingredients

Yellow Rice

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)

• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil

• ½ teaspoon turmeric

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon salt

Cajun Shrimp

• 1 lb raw shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning

• ¼ teaspoon paprika (optional, for extra color)

• ¼ teaspoon garlic powder

• Pinch of black pepper

Roasted Zucchini

• 2 medium zucchini, chopped

• 1½ tablespoons olive oil

• ½ teaspoon garlic powder

• ¼ teaspoon onion powder

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Yellow Rice

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth, butter, turmeric, garlic powder, and salt.

2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

3. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed.

4. Remove from heat and fluff with a fork.

2. Roast the Zucchini

1. Preheat oven to 425°F.

2. Toss chopped zucchini with olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread evenly on a baking sheet.

4. Roast for 18–22 minutes, stirring halfway, until tender with lightly browned edges.

3. Cook the Cajun Shrimp

1. Pat shrimp dry and toss with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.

2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.

3. Add shrimp in a single layer and cook 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.

4. Remove from heat immediately to avoid overcooking.

To Assemble the Bowls

• Spoon yellow rice into the bottom of each bowl.

• Top with roasted zucchini.

• Finish with Cajun shrimp.

• Optional: drizzle with melted butter, a squeeze of lemon, or a light garlic sauce.

Serving Tips

• For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne or hot sauce.

• This bowl pairs well with cornbread or a simple side salad.

• Leftovers reheat well and make a great next-day lunch.

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Pantry Swaps & Easy Substitutions

This recipe is flexible and forgiving, perfect for using what you already have on hand.

• Rice:

  • Swap long-grain white rice for jasmine, basmati, or parboiled rice.

  • Use instant yellow rice if you’re short on time (adjust seasoning as needed).

• Shrimp:

  • Use frozen shrimp (thawed and patted dry).

  • Substitute diced chicken breast or smoked sausage if shrimp isn’t available.

• Cajun Seasoning:

  • Make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne.

  • Use Creole seasoning for a milder, herb-forward flavor.

• Zucchini:

  • Substitute yellow squash, broccoli florets, or green beans.

  • Frozen vegetables work in a pinch—roast straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

• Chicken Broth:

  • Use water with an extra pinch of salt and butter.

  • Vegetable broth works just as well.

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FAQ’s

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. All three components—rice, shrimp, and zucchini—can be prepared ahead and stored separately in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat leftovers without drying out the shrimp?

Reheat gently. Microwave in short intervals or warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to keep everything moist.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild kick. Cajun seasoning varies by brand, so start with less if you’re sensitive to heat and adjust to taste.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Absolutely. Just thaw completely and pat dry before seasoning so they sear properly instead of steaming.

What’s the best way to keep zucchini from getting soggy?

Roast at a high temperature (425°F) and avoid overcrowding the pan. This helps the zucchini caramelize instead of releasing too much moisture.

Can I make this bowl dairy-free?

Yes. Simply use olive oil instead of butter in the rice, and the entire recipe is naturally dairy-free.

What can I serve with this bowl?

This dish works well on its own, but cornbread, a simple green salad, or sautéed greens make great additions.

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Hi, I’m Regina of The Faithful Feast. I'm also a writer and catering business owner. I live in the Buckeye State with my wonderful family, where our weekends are often filled with football games and faith-filled conversations. I’m passionate about encouraging women to notice God’s goodness in everyday life, especially over a cozy cup of tea. Whether I’m sharing a soul-warming recipe or writing words that encourage you, my heart is to inspire you to find joy and purpose right where you are.