Shrimp and Wild Rice Skillet

Shrimp and wild rice skillet is an easy one-pan dinner made with jumbo shrimp, wild rice blend, spinach, bacon, garlic, and fresh tomato. This healthy shrimp recipe combines tender seafood with hearty whole grains and vegetables for a balanced meal. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this shrimp and rice skillet is packed with protein, simple ingredients, and fresh flavors, making it a great option for family meals or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 1¾ cups chicken broth, divided
• 1 cup wild rice blend
• 4 cups cold water
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons salt
• 1 lb jumbo shrimp (16/20 count), peeled and deveined
• Seasoned salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 vine-ripened tomato, seeded and chopped
• 4 cups baby spinach, loosely packed and roughly chopped
• 3 slices bacon, chopped
• Juice of ½ lemon

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Instructions

1. Cook the wild rice
   In a saucepan, bring 1½ cups chicken broth and the wild rice to a boil. Cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 45–50 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
2. Brine the shrimp
   While the rice cooks, combine cold water, salt, and brown sugar in a large bowl. Add the shrimp and let soak until the rice has about 10 minutes left to cook. Drain, rinse well, and pat the shrimp completely dry.
3. Cook the shrimp
   Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add half the shrimp, season with seasoned salt and pepper, and sauté for 1–2 minutes per side, until opaque. Transfer to a plate and repeat with remaining shrimp and oil.
4. Build the skillet
   Reduce heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add green onions and cook for 1–2 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add tomato and spinach, season lightly, and sauté just until the spinach wilts.
5. Combine and finish
   Add cooked bacon, wild rice, and the remaining ¼ cup chicken broth. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the liquid slightly thickens. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture, adjust seasoning, and toss to combine.
6. Serve
   Spoon the rice mixture onto plates and top with the cooked shrimp.

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Tips

• Pat the shrimp very dry before cooking to get a better sear.
• Cook shrimp in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.
• Wild rice blends vary; check for doneness and add a splash of broth if needed.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute chicken or salmon for shrimp.
• Use brown rice if wild rice is unavailable (adjust cooking time).
• Add mushrooms or bell peppers for extra vegetables.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
The rice mixture can be prepared ahead, but cook the shrimp just before serving for best texture.

Is frozen shrimp okay?
Yes, fully thaw and dry the shrimp before brining and cooking.

Can I omit the bacon?
Yes, the dish will still be flavorful without it.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve as a complete one-pan dinner.
• Pair with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables.
• Finish with extra lemon wedges on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-skillet meal with minimal cleanup
• Balanced combination of seafood, whole grains, and vegetables
• Rich flavor with simple, everyday ingredients
• Suitable for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining