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 made this chipotle lime grilled shrimp & rice for a family weekend and it instantly became a favorite for its lively flavors and simplicity.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: 1 lb (450 g), peeled and deveined
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp (about 1 lime)
- 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, 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
- Zest of lime: zest of 1 lime
- Lime juice (for rice): 2 tbsp (about 1 lime)
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped
- Garnishes: lime wedges and extra chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate Shrimp:
- Whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic, honey, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Toss shrimp in the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Prepare Rice:
- Rinse rice until water runs clear. Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat, add rice, and stir for 1 to 2 minutes. Add water or broth and salt, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer 15 minutes until tender. Remove from heat, fluff, and mix in lime zest, lime juice, and cilantro.
- Grill Shrimp:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Thread shrimp onto skewers and grill 2 to 3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred.
- Serve:
- Serve grilled shrimp over cilantro lime rice. Garnish with lime wedges and extra cilantro as desired.
Save This dish brought everyone together at our table, with the zest and spice of each bite sparking laughter and joyful conversation.
Serving Suggestions
Chipotle lime grilled shrimp & rice pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, fresh avocado salad, or a cooling cucumber side.
Allergen Information
This dish contains shellfish (shrimp). All other ingredients are gluten- and dairy-free, but always verify packaged items for cross-contamination.
Nutritional Information
Each serving provides approximately 340 calories, 9 g total fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.
Save This shrimp and rice combo makes weeknight dinners vibrant and easy—just fire up the grill and enjoy!
Recipe Help
- → How long should the shrimp marinate?
Marinate the shrimp for 15 to 30 minutes to allow the chipotle lime flavors to fully penetrate without overpowering the natural taste.
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, substituting brown rice or even quinoa provides a whole grain option, though cooking times will be longer and texture may vary.
- → What grilling method works best for this shrimp?
Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until opaque and lightly charred for optimal flavor and texture.
- → Is it possible to adjust the heat level?
For more spice, add extra chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade according to your heat preference.
- → What can I serve alongside for a balanced meal?
Grilled vegetables or a fresh avocado salad complement the smoky shrimp and citrus rice beautifully, adding variety and freshness.