Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Herb Rice

Introduction

The aroma of sizzling garlic butter shrimp cooking on the stovetop is pure magic, isn’t it? The buttery, garlicky goodness paired with plump shrimp and fragrant herb rice is the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is surprisingly easy to whip up! I first tried this recipe on a busy work night, and let me tell you—it saved the day. Not only was it quick, but the flavors were so bold and satisfying that I couldn’t wait to share it.

This garlic butter shrimp bowl with herb rice has become a staple in my kitchen. It’s perfect for those nights when you crave something special but don’t want to spend hours cooking. Packed with protein, savory spices, and fresh herbs, this dish checks all the boxes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or impressing a dinner guest, this recipe is your new go-to. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients already—no fancy shopping required!
• Unbelievably Delicious: The garlic butter sauce is rich and flavorful, and the herb rice ties everything together beautifully.
• Healthy Comfort Food: Packed with protein and fresh herbs, this dish is satisfying without being heavy.
• Versatile: Customize it to your liking—add veggies, swap out the rice, or tweak the spices.

What makes this garlic butter shrimp bowl stand out is the balance of flavors. The shrimp is perfectly seasoned, the herb rice is light and fragrant, and together, they create a dish that feels indulgent yet nourishing. It’s one of those meals that makes you stop and savor every bite. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser—kids love it, adults rave about it, and picky eaters clean their plates!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create a symphony of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Shrimp:
• 1 lb (450 g) shrimp, peeled and deveined (fresh or thawed frozen)
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (freshly minced for the best flavor)
• 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika works beautifully)
• ½ tsp chili flakes (adjust to taste)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lemon (adds brightness)
• For the Herb Rice:
• 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice (or jasmine rice)
• 2 cups (480 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (optional, but adds a lovely flavor)
• Salt to taste

If you don’t have fresh herbs, dried parsley and dill can work in a pinch—just reduce the quantity slightly. You could also use brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice for a healthier twist!

Equipment Needed

• Large skillet: For cooking the shrimp perfectly.
• Medium saucepan: To make the herb rice.
• Mixing bowl: For seasoning the shrimp.
• Spatula: For stirring the shrimp without breaking them.
• Fine mesh strainer: To rinse the rice before cooking.

If you don’t have a large skillet, a heavy-bottomed pan works just as well. And don’t worry if you’re short on kitchen tools—this recipe is forgiving!

Detailed Preparation Method

Follow these steps for a foolproof garlic butter shrimp bowl with herb rice:

1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped parsley and dill.
2. Season the shrimp: In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Cook the shrimp: Heat 3 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and give it a quick stir.
4. Assemble the bowl: Divide the herb rice into bowls and top with the garlic butter shrimp. Spoon any remaining butter sauce from the skillet over the shrimp for added flavor.

Pro tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet when cooking the shrimp. If needed, cook them in batches to ensure even cooking!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Thaw frozen shrimp correctly: Place them in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp: They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to prevent a rubbery texture.
• Use fresh garlic: Pre-minced garlic can work, but fresh garlic gives the best flavor punch.
• Toast the rice: Don’t skip this step! Toasting the rice enhances its flavor and gives it a nutty aroma.
• Adjust the spice: If you’re not a fan of heat, reduce or omit the chili flakes.

Remember, every stove cooks differently, so keep an eye on your ingredients as the cooking time may vary slightly. Practice makes perfect!

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the shrimp with sautéed mushrooms or tofu, and use vegetable broth for the rice.
• Low-Carb Version: Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Seasonal Twist: Add seasonal veggies like asparagus or cherry tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

I once added a sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a dollop of pesto to the finished dish—it was incredible! Feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

To serve, enjoy the garlic butter shrimp bowl warm, garnished with extra parsley or a lemon wedge for an extra burst of freshness. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A glass of chilled white wine or iced tea makes the perfect beverage pairing!

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm the shrimp and rice in the microwave or a skillet. Add a splash of water or broth to avoid drying out the rice.

Fun fact: The flavors in this dish deepen overnight, so it tastes even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This garlic butter shrimp bowl with herb rice is not just delicious—it’s nutritious too!

• Protein Power: Shrimp is a great source of lean protein.
• Rich in Vitamins: Parsley and dill are packed with vitamins A and C.
• Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

If you’re watching your sodium intake, opt for a low-sodium broth for the rice. Allergies? Skip the butter and use olive oil instead!

Conclusion

This garlic butter shrimp bowl with herb rice is a recipe you’ll want to keep in your back pocket. It’s easy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish will make you feel like a pro. I love it because it’s one of those meals that makes you feel good—comforting yet light, indulgent yet healthy.

Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe with Herb Rice

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• Author: David
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

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Description

A quick and easy recipe featuring buttery garlic shrimp paired with fragrant herb rice, perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1/2 tsp chili flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of half a lemon
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
• Salt to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water using a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and toast for 2 minutes. Pour in the chicken broth, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped parsley and dill.
2. In a mixing bowl, toss the shrimp with paprika, chili flakes, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Heat 3 tbsp butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Squeeze lemon juice over the shrimp and give it a quick stir.
4. Divide the herb rice into bowls and top with the garlic butter shrimp. Spoon any remaining butter sauce from the skillet over the shrimp for added flavor.

Notes

[‘Thaw frozen shrimp correctly by placing them in a bowl of cold water for 10-15 minutes, then pat dry with paper towels.’, ‘Don’t overcook the shrimp to avoid a rubbery texture.’, ‘Use fresh garlic for the best flavor.’, ‘Toast the rice to enhance its flavor and give it a nutty aroma.’, ‘Adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting chili flakes.’]

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 350
• Sodium: 600
• Fat: 12
• Saturated Fat: 6
• Carbohydrates: 30
• Fiber: 1
• Protein: 25

Keywords: Garlic butter shrimp, herb rice, quick dinner, easy recipe, shrimp bowl, healthy comfort food