Hey there! I can’t wait to share this creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl with you. This dish is one of my all-time favorites, and it comes together so quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend dinner. Imagine fluffy rice, cooked in rich chicken broth, blended with a swirl of heavy cream, and topped with succulent, garlicky shrimp that are sautéed to perfection! Trust me, the combination of creamy and savory flavors will have your taste buds dancing! I remember the first time I made this; the aroma of garlic and fresh herbs filled my kitchen, and I knew I’d hit the jackpot. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to impress!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl. I promise, it’s super simple and oh-so-delicious!
- 1 cup rice (I love using jasmine or basmati for extra fragrance)
- 2 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought, whatever you have on hand)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (for that dreamy creaminess)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin is my go-to)
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined (feel free to use your favorite size)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced (because garlic makes everything better!)
- 2 tablespoons butter (for that rich finish)
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (like parsley, dill, or chives—use what you love!)
- Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
With these ingredients in your kitchen, you’re all set to create a dish that’s bursting with flavor and comfort! Let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Instructions
Alright, let’s get down to the exciting part—making this creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful meal ready in no time!
- First, cook the rice. In a medium saucepan, bring the 2 cups of chicken broth to a boil. Once boiling, add 1 cup of rice. Cover it, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all the broth. Don’t peek too often, or you’ll let the steam escape!
- While the rice is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, but not smoking!
- Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the 4 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant—be careful not to burn it! That garlic aroma is heavenly!
- Next, add the 1 pound of shrimp to the skillet. Season them generously with salt and pepper, and cook for about 3-4 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they turn pink and opaque. They cook really fast, so keep an eye on them!
- Now, stir in 2 tablespoons of butter and your 1/4 cup of fresh herbs into the shrimp. Give it a good toss to coat everything in that luscious garlic butter goodness. Remove the skillet from the heat and set it aside.
- By this time, your rice should be ready! Fluff it up with a fork, then stir in the 1/2 cup of heavy cream until it’s beautifully creamy. Wow, the texture is going to be so satisfying!
- To serve, spoon the creamy herb rice into bowls and top it generously with the garlic butter shrimp. You can drizzle any extra butter sauce from the skillet over the top for extra flavor. Yum!
And there you have it! Your creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl is ready to be devoured. I promise, every bite will be a burst of flavor and comfort. Enjoy!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—this dish comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights!
- Delicious flavors from the combination of garlic butter shrimp and creamy herb rice that will have you coming back for seconds.
- Luxuriously creamy texture thanks to the heavy cream, making every bite feel like a special treat.
- Fresh, healthy ingredients that you can feel good about, packed with protein from the shrimp and customizable with your favorite herbs.
- Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in with a comforting meal.
Tips for Success
Now, let me share some of my top tips for making this creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl absolutely perfect! Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom will elevate your dish and impress anyone you serve it to.
- Choose the Right Rice: I love using jasmine or basmati rice for their wonderful fragrance and texture. If you’re feeling adventurous, try arborio rice for a risotto-like creaminess!
- Don’t Skip the Broth: Cooking the rice in chicken broth gives it so much more flavor than just using water. If you want a vegetarian option, vegetable broth works beautifully!
- Cook the Shrimp Just Right: Shrimp cooks super fast, so keep an eye on them! Once they’re pink and opaque, they’re done. Overcooked shrimp can turn rubbery, and nobody wants that!
- Fresh Herbs Matter: Fresh herbs really brighten up the dish, so I highly recommend using them. Experiment with different combinations like basil, tarragon, or even cilantro to suit your taste!
- Add a Squeeze of Lemon: For an extra zing, don’t hesitate to squeeze some fresh lemon juice over the shrimp just before serving. It adds a refreshing burst that complements the garlic butter perfectly!
- Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, feel free to adjust the amount of heavy cream. You can substitute some of it with low-fat milk or even chicken broth to keep it creamy without the richness.
- Make it Ahead: You can prepare the rice and shrimp in advance. Just reheat them together in a pan before serving—this way, you can enjoy the meal with minimal fuss!
With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be well on your way to creating a creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl that everyone will rave about! Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl is how flexible it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your mood or whatever you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to get your creative juices flowing:
- Herb Swaps: Don’t feel limited to just parsley, dill, or chives! Try using fresh basil or thyme for a different flavor profile. You could even mix in some arugula or spinach for a pop of color and nutrition!
- Spice It Up: If you’re in the mood for a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the shrimp. It adds a wonderful kick that balances the creaminess beautifully!
- Different Proteins: Not a shrimp fan? No worries! This recipe works well with chicken, scallops, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly!
- Flavor Boosters: Try adding a splash of white wine to the skillet after sautéing the garlic for an extra layer of flavor. Let it simmer for a minute to cook off the alcohol before adding the shrimp.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: For a heartier dish, toss in some veggies! Peas, bell peppers, or even asparagus can be sautéed with the garlic to add freshness and color.
- Cheesy Goodness: If you want to take it over the top, mix in some grated parmesan or feta cheese into the creamy rice just before serving. The cheesy goodness will make it even more indulgent!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your own signature version of this dish. I can’t wait to hear what you come up with! Enjoy the creativity and happy cooking!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made this delicious creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl, and now you have some leftovers. No worries, I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat it without losing any of that amazing flavor and texture!
First off, let your dish cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation in your container, which can make the rice soggy. Once it’s cooled, transfer the rice and shrimp into an airtight container. I like to separate the shrimp from the rice if I can, just to keep everything fresh. It should last in the fridge for about 2–3 days.
If you’re planning to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It’ll keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Now, when it comes to reheating, there are a couple of options. If you want to use the microwave, simply place the leftover rice and shrimp in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel (this keeps it moist!), and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
If you prefer the stovetop method, which I recommend for better texture, just heat a bit of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and shrimp, and stir gently until everything is warmed through. You might want to splash in a little broth or water to revive the creaminess—trust me, it makes a world of difference!
With these tips, your creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl will taste just as delicious the second time around. Enjoy every bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk nutrition! This creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl is not only delicious but also packs a good nutritional punch. Here’s the estimated breakdown per serving, though keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients you use and portion sizes:
- Calories: 550
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 25g
This dish is a great source of protein thanks to the shrimp, and it offers a balance of carbohydrates and fats to keep you satisfied. So whether you’re fueling up for a busy day or treating yourself to a comforting meal, this creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl has got you covered! Enjoy with confidence!
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen shrimp work just fine. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can do this overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water if you’re in a pinch.
What if I don’t have chicken broth?
No worries at all! You can use vegetable broth instead for a lighter flavor, or even water in a pinch, but I highly recommend broth for that extra depth of flavor.
Can I make creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the rice and shrimp in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and reheat together in a pan before serving to keep everything fresh and delicious.
What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl is a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or some steamed veggies for a well-rounded dinner!
How do I make this dish spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the shrimp. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who like it spicy!
Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Bliss
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A delicious creamy herb rice dish topped with garlic butter shrimp.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley, dill, or chives)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the rice in chicken broth according to package instructions.
- In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook until pink.
- Stir in butter and fresh herbs, then remove from heat.
- Mix heavy cream into the cooked rice until creamy.
- Serve rice in a bowl and top with garlic butter shrimp.
Notes
- Adjust seasoning to your taste.
- Use any preferred shrimp size.
- Great with a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
Keywords: creamy herb rice with garlic butter shrimp bowl
