These Spicy Marinated Shrimp Skewers with Cilantro-Lime Rice Will Take Your Dinner to the Next Level!

Why Make This Recipe?

If you love bold flavors, juicy shrimp, and a fresh citrusy kick, this dish is for you! Spicy marinated shrimp skewers are grilled to perfection and served over fluffy, zesty cilantro-lime rice, making this meal light, flavorful, and satisfying. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, backyard BBQs, or meal prep—plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes!

Recipe Overview

  • Servings: 4
  • Preparation Time: 15 minutes
  • Marinating Time: 20 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes

How to Make Spicy Marinated Shrimp Skewers with Cilantro-Lime Rice

Ingredients

For the Spicy Shrimp Marinade:

  • 1 pound (450g) large shrimp, peeled & deveined
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • 2 teaspoons hot sauce (such as Sriracha or Tabasco)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice level)
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon honey (optional, for balance)
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro

For the Cilantro-Lime Rice:

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • ½ teaspoon lime zest
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

For Garnishing & Serving:

  • Lime wedges
  • Extra chopped cilantro
  • Grilled vegetables (optional, such as bell peppers or zucchini)

Directions

Step 1: Marinate the Shrimp

  1. Prepare the Shrimp: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
  2. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, hot sauce, smoked paprika, chili powder, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and honey. Stir in the chopped cilantro.
  3. Marinate the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and let it sit for 20-30 minutes in the fridge.

Step 2: Make the Cilantro-Lime Rice

  1. Cook the Rice: In a pot, bring chicken broth (or water), salt, and butter to a boil. Add the rice, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes until fluffy.
  2. Add Flavor: Remove from heat, then stir in lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Fluff with a fork and keep warm.

Step 3: Grill the Shrimp Skewers

  1. Preheat Grill or Pan: Heat an outdoor grill, grill pan, or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Assemble the Skewers: Thread 4-5 shrimp onto each skewer, keeping them snug but not overcrowded.
  3. Grill the Shrimp: Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the shrimp turn pink and slightly charred. Avoid overcooking.
  4. Squeeze Fresh Lime: Remove shrimp from the grill and squeeze fresh lime juice over them.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy!

  1. Plate the Dish: Serve the grilled shrimp skewers over a bed of cilantro-lime rice.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle with extra chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
  3. Enjoy Immediately!

How to Serve Spicy Marinated Shrimp Skewers with Cilantro-Lime Rice

  • Classic Style: Serve as-is with extra grilled vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
  • Taco Style: Chop the shrimp and serve in warm tortillas with rice and avocado.
  • Bowl Meal: Add black beans, guacamole, and salsa for a complete bowl.
  • Healthy Version: Swap white rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.

How to Store & Reheat

  • Refrigerate: Store shrimp and rice separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze: Freeze shrimp and rice separately for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat:
    • Shrimp: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes.
    • Rice: Reheat in a microwave with a splash of water for 30 seconds.

Tips to Make the Best Spicy Shrimp Skewers

  • Use fresh shrimp for the best flavor and texture.
  • Don’t over-marinate—30 minutes is enough, or the shrimp can get mushy.
  • Skewer the shrimp tightly to keep them from drying out while grilling.
  • Let the rice rest for 5 minutes after cooking for perfect fluffiness.
  • Adjust spice level by adding more or less cayenne/hot sauce.

Variation Ideas

  • Garlic Butter Shrimp: Swap the spicy marinade for garlic, butter, and lemon juice.
  • Mango Salsa Shrimp: Serve with fresh mango salsa for a tropical twist.
  • Creamy Cilantro-Lime Rice: Stir in Greek yogurt or sour cream for extra creaminess.

Tips for Success

  • Use metal skewers for easier grilling and no soaking needed.
  • Grill the shrimp on high heat for a quick sear and juicy texture.
  • Double the marinade and save half for drizzling over cooked shrimp.

How Many Servings?

This recipe makes 4 servings.

Calories and Nutrition Facts Per Serving

  • Calories: 380
  • Protein: 32g
  • Fats: 12g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Sodium: 650mg

Health Benefits of Spicy Marinated Shrimp Skewers with Cilantro-Lime Rice

  • High in Protein: Shrimp provides lean protein for muscle growth.
  • Rich in Antioxidants: Cilantro and lime contain immune-boosting vitamins.
  • Good for Digestion: Lime juice and rice are easy on the stomach.

Is It Good for People Over 60 Years Old?

Yes! This dish is light, easy to digest, and full of nutrients. For a healthier version:

  • Use brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber.
  • Reduce salt and spice for a milder flavor.
  • Add extra vegetables for more vitamins and minerals.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes! Thaw completely and pat dry before marinating.

2. Can I cook these shrimp skewers in a pan?

Yes! Use a grill pan or regular skillet over medium-high heat.

3. What’s the best rice to use?

Jasmine or basmati rice works best for light, fluffy texture.

This Spicy Marinated Shrimp Skewers with Cilantro-Lime Rice is a flavor-packed, healthy, and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion! Try it today and tell us how it turned out!

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