Save 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 dreamed up this recipe on a warm summer evening when I wanted a quick, impressive seafood dinner with a kick of Mexican&inspired zest.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: 1 lb (450 g), peeled and deveined
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp, divided
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp (about 1 lime), divided
- 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 for shrimp, 1/2 tsp for rice
- Black pepper: 1/4 tsp
- Long grain white rice: 1 cup, rinsed
- Water or low&sodium chicken broth: 2 cups
- Lime zest: Zest of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Garnishes (optional): Lime wedges, extra chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Marinate the shrimp:
- In a large bowl, whisk together 2 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic, honey, cumin, smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp salt, and black pepper. Add shrimp and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes.
- Prepare the rice:
- Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and stir for 1–2 minutes.
- Cook the rice:
- Add 2 cups water or broth and 1/2 tsp 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, 2 tbsp lime juice, and cilantro.
- Preheat the grill:
- Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium&high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers.
- Grill the shrimp:
- Grill shrimp for 2–3 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.
Save We love to make this for family nights on the patio when everyone gathers around the grill and no one can wait for the shrimp to come off the fire.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with grilled vegetables or a fresh avocado salad for a rounded meal bursting with Mexican&inspired flavors.
Swaps & Variations
Substitute brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain twist, or add extra chipotle for more heat.
Nutrition Information
Each serving contains approximately 340 calories, 9 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.
Save These shrimp are irresistible hot off the grill. Serve with extra lime for a true flavor burst and enjoy immediately!
Cooking Guide
- → How long should the shrimp marinate?
Marinate the shrimp for 15–30 minutes to allow the chipotle and lime flavors to infuse fully without overpowering the natural texture.
- → What is the best way to cook the shrimp?
Grilling over medium-high heat for 2–3 minutes per side ensures the shrimp stays tender with a slight char for extra smoky flavor.
- → Can I use alternatives to white rice?
Yes, brown rice or quinoa can be substituted for a whole grain option while maintaining the bright cilantro and lime flavors.
- → How to add extra heat to the marinade?
Add more chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade to increase the spiciness according to your preference.
- → What are good side dishes to serve with this dish?
Grilled vegetables or a fresh avocado salad pair well, complementing the smoky and zesty profiles of the shrimp and rice.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets?
Yes, all ingredients used are naturally gluten- and dairy-free, except for shellfish allergies which should be noted.