Pin it 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 tried this chipotle&lime shrimp recipe on a busy summer weeknight, and it instantly became a family favorite for its bright flavors and effortless preparation.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: 1 lb (450 g), peeled and deveined
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp (plus 1 tbsp for rice)
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp (about 1 lime, plus 2 tbsp for rice)
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: 1 tbsp, finely chopped
- Garlic cloves: 2, minced
- Honey: 1 tsp
- Ground cumin: 1/2 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt: 1/2 tsp (plus 1/2 tsp for rice)
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Long grain white rice: 1 cup
- Water or low&sodium chicken broth: 2 cups
- Lime zest: Zest of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Lime wedges (optional): For garnish
- Extra chopped cilantro (optional): For garnish
Instructions
- Marinate shrimp:
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic, honey, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Prepare rice:
- While shrimp marinates, rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and stir for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Cook rice:
- Add water or broth and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in lime zest, juice, and cilantro.
- Grill shrimp:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium&high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers. Grill shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until opaque and lightly charred.
- Serve:
- Serve grilled shrimp over cilantro lime rice. Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro if desired.
Pin it This meal brings back memories of outdoor grill nights with my kids eagerly awaiting those charred succulent shrimp hot off the skewers.
Variations
Try using brown rice or quinoa for added whole grain nutrition, or adjust the marinade by increasing the chipotle for more spice or using avocado oil instead of olive oil.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this dish with grilled vegetables or serve alongside a fresh avocado salad to round out your meal.
Allergen Information
Contains shellfish (shrimp). All other ingredients are naturally gluten& and dairy&free, but always check packaged items for cross&contamination.
Pin it This chipotle&lime shrimp and rice is the perfect vibrant meal to brighten any evening. Enjoy the zesty flavors and quick clean&up!
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should the shrimp marinate?
Marinate the shrimp for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the chipotle-lime flavors to infuse without overpowering their natural taste.
- → Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, substituting brown rice or quinoa works well for a whole grain alternative with added texture.
- → What grilling method is best for the shrimp?
Use a medium-high grill or grill pan to cook shrimp 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred.
- → How can I increase the heat in this dish?
Adding extra chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade will boost the spiciness.
- → What sides pair well with this shrimp and rice?
Grilled vegetables or a fresh avocado salad complement the smoky, zesty flavors nicely.