Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl Recipe

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Imagine a warm evening by the sea, the sound of waves in the distance, and a plate full of flavor resting in your hands. That’s the kind of feeling this Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl delivers. The juicy, seared shrimp glisten in a golden garlic butter glaze, sitting atop a bed of fluffy, creamy herb-infused rice. It’s a dish that looks straight out of a tropical resort but is simple enough to make right at home.

This recipe strikes the perfect balance between comfort and elegance. The shrimp are seasoned and seared just right, offering a slight crisp that complements the rich, velvety rice base. Fresh herbs like parsley and a hint of lemon give it that pop of brightness, making each bite refreshing. Whether you need a quick dinner idea, an impressive dish for guests, or a high-protein, easy recipe for weeknights, this shrimp bowl has you covered.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Restaurant Quality at Home: Impress your family with bold flavors and creamy textures.
• Versatile: Great for dinner, meal prep, or even as a fancy lunch.
• Healthy Meets Indulgent: High in protein, with wholesome rice and real butter.
• Customizable: Switch herbs, add veggies, or spice it up to your liking.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use for Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

To bring this vibrant, coastal-inspired dish to life, a few essential tools make the process smooth, efficient, and enjoyable. Each one plays a vital role in nailing the flavor and texture balance.

• Large Skillet or Sauté Pan: This is crucial for cooking the shrimp. A wide skillet allows for even searing, ensuring that garlic butter coats each shrimp beautifully. Non-stick or stainless steel both work well.
• Medium Saucepan: Perfect for cooking the rice evenly and infusing it with herbs and cream. A heavy-bottomed pan helps prevent scorching.
• Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Ideal for gently stirring the rice and shrimp without damaging non-stick surfaces.
• Microplane or Garlic Press: Fresh garlic is key here, and a microplane or press extracts maximum flavor fast.
• Fine Mesh Strainer: If you’re rinsing rice (which is a great tip!), this will come in handy.
• Measuring Spoons & Cups: Precision is important, especially with seasoning and cream.
• Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For chopping fresh herbs and prepping shrimp (if needed).

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Preparation Tips

• Rinse the Rice: This step removes excess starch and helps the rice cook fluffy, not sticky.
• Use Raw, Peeled Shrimp: Fresh or thawed raw shrimp (not pre-cooked) work best for achieving a crisp, buttery sear.
• Don’t Crowd the Pan: When cooking shrimp, give them space in the skillet. This ensures caramelization rather than steaming.
• Cook Rice in Broth: For a richer base, use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water.
• Fresh Herbs Matter: Parsley and chives bring out bright, fresh flavors—opt for fresh over dried whenever possible.
• Zest, Then Juice: If you’re using lemon, zest it before juicing to avoid waste and maximize citrus punch.
• Cream Timing: Add the cream at the end of rice cooking to maintain smoothness and prevent curdling.

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Ingredients for Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

Here’s everything you’ll need to recreate this flavorful and satisfying dish. Freshness is key, especially for the shrimp and herbs!

For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined (tails on or off)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp chopped parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Herb Rice:

• 1 cup long grain white rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati)
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh chives (optional)

Optional Add-ons:

• Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
• Grated parmesan (for extra creaminess in the rice)
• Lemon zest (for brightness)

Let’s turn these ingredients into a flavor-packed, coastal-inspired bowl in the next step.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl

Let’s break it down into simple, manageable steps to help you get that restaurant-style result at home.

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Step 1: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tbsp butter and let it melt.
3. Add the rinsed rice and stir for about 1 minute to lightly toast it.
4. Pour in the broth, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt.
5. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed.
6. Once cooked, turn off the heat and stir in the heavy cream, parsley, chives (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover and set aside.

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Step 2: Season the Shrimp

1. While the rice is cooking, pat the shrimp dry with paper towels.
2. Toss them in a bowl with olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

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Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the shrimp in a single layer (work in batches if needed).
3. Cook for about 2 minutes on each side, until they turn pink and slightly crisp on the edges.
4. Add the minced garlic and butter to the skillet.
5. Toss the shrimp in the garlic butter for another 1-2 minutes.
6. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and remove from heat.

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Step 4: Assemble the Bowl

1. Spoon the creamy herb rice into bowls.
2. Top generously with garlic butter shrimp.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley and lemon zest if desired.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy the flavor explosion.

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Notes

• Use Fresh or Thawed Raw Shrimp: Frozen pre-cooked shrimp won’t absorb the garlic butter as well and can turn rubbery when reheated.
• Control the Creaminess: Add more or less heavy cream depending on your preference. For a lighter version, try using half-and-half or coconut milk.
• Herb Flexibility: Parsley and chives are recommended, but dill, basil, or cilantro can also complement the shrimp beautifully.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp only need about 2 minutes per side. Overcooking makes them dry and chewy instead of juicy and tender.
• Forgetting to Rinse the Rice: Skipping this step can lead to sticky, mushy rice instead of a fluffy, separate grain texture.
• Crowding the Pan: If you toss all the shrimp in at once, they’ll steam instead of sear. Work in batches for that golden edge.
• Adding Cream Too Early: If you add cream while the rice is still boiling, it may curdle. Wait until the end, then stir it in gently.
• Not Tasting as You Go: Always adjust seasoning—especially salt and lemon juice—based on your preference and broth saltiness.
• Low Heat While Searing Shrimp: You need medium-high heat to get that delicious caramelization from the butter and garlic.
• Using Dried Herbs: Dried parsley and chives won’t offer the same fresh, vibrant pop. Fresh is definitely worth it here.
• Skipping the Resting Time for Rice: Letting the rice sit covered for 5 minutes after cooking helps lock in flavor and texture.

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What to Serve With Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl?

This dish is a satisfying meal on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your dinner into a full, memorable spread. Think crisp textures, light contrasts, and fresh flavors.

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8 Recommendations:

1. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly charred asparagus with lemon juice adds brightness and crunch next to the creamy rice.
2. Cucumber & Tomato Salad
   A chilled salad with a vinegar-based dressing brings a refreshing contrast to the warm, buttery shrimp.
3. Garlic Bread or Herb Flatbread
   Perfect for scooping up any extra garlic butter or cream from the bowl.
4. Crispy Roasted Broccoli
   Oven-roasted broccoli with olive oil and sea salt adds a roasted, slightly bitter edge to balance the creaminess.
5. Corn on the Cob
   Sweet and juicy grilled corn adds color and flavor—and pairs surprisingly well with garlic butter.
6. Chili-Lime Slaw
   A crunchy slaw with lime and chili dressing provides acidity and heat to cut through the richness.
7. White Wine or Sparkling Water with Lemon
   For drinks, something crisp and citrusy will pair beautifully and cleanse the palate.
8. Mango or Pineapple Salsa
   Spoon it over the shrimp bowl or serve on the side to add a sweet, tropical flair.

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Storage Instructions

Refrigeration:
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure the shrimp and rice are fully cooled before sealing.

Reheating Tips:

• For best results, reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of broth or water to loosen the rice and revive the creamy texture.
• If microwaving, cover loosely and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.

Freezing:
While the rice can be frozen for up to 1 month, shrimp are best enjoyed fresh. If you do freeze, store the shrimp and rice separately in freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)

• Calories: 520
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 1g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 13g
• Unsaturated Fat: 13g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 215mg
• Sugar: 1g
• Sodium: 740mg
• Serving Size: About 1 ½ cups
• Category: Dinner / Main
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American-Coastal Fusion
• Diet: High Protein
• Keywords: creamy shrimp rice, garlic butter shrimp, shrimp bowl, quick dinner, easy recipe

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Frequently Asked Questions

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1. Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat dry before cooking. Excess moisture can prevent them from searing properly.

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2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Absolutely. Swap the butter for a plant-based version and use full-fat coconut milk instead of heavy cream. It adds a nice tropical twist!

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3. What rice works best for this recipe?

Long grain white rice like jasmine or basmati works beautifully. It stays fluffy and absorbs the creamy sauce without becoming mushy.

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4. How spicy is this dish?

It’s mild by default. Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne if you prefer some heat.

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5. Can I substitute the herbs?

Yes, parsley and chives are flexible. You can try dill, basil, cilantro, or a mix depending on what you have on hand.

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6. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free—just double-check that your broth and any added seasonings are labeled gluten-free.

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7. Can I meal prep this shrimp bowl?

Definitely! Just store the shrimp and rice separately and reheat with a splash of broth or water to keep the rice creamy.

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8. What if I don’t have cream?

You can use half-and-half or even whole milk with a dab of butter, though the texture will be slightly less rich.

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Conclusion

This Creamy Herb Rice with Garlic Butter Shrimp Bowl isn’t just a meal—it’s a moment of comfort, flavor, and freshness in every bite. Whether you’re whipping it up on a weeknight or serving it at a small dinner gathering, it delivers bold flavors with minimal effort. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep it on rotation year-round.

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