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. This Mexican-inspired recipe combines bold flavors with a fresh, citrusy finish that is sure to brighten any meal.
I first made this chipotle lime grilled shrimp & rice on a whim for a family taco night, and everyone was instantly hooked. The marinade packs a punch without being overwhelming, and it's now our go-to summer meal—especially when we crave something light but satisfying.
Ingredients
- Large shrimp: 1 lb (450 g), peeled and deveined
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp for both shrimp marinade and rice
- Lime juice: 2 tbsp (about 1 lime), divided for shrimp and rice
- Chipotle peppers in adobo: 1 tbsp, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, 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
- Water or low-sodium chicken broth: 2 cups
- Lime zest: Zest of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro: 1/2 cup, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- Lime wedges: For garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Shrimp:
- In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle peppers, garlic, honey, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for 15 to 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Rice:
- While the shrimp marinates, rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear. In a saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add rice and stir for 1 to 2 minutes.
- Cook the Rice:
- Add water or broth and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and stir in lime zest, lime juice, and cilantro.
- Grill the Shrimp:
- Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Thread marinated shrimp onto skewers. Grill for 2 to 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 This dish always brings everyone to the table for seconds & laughter—the perfect reminder that simple recipes can create meaningful moments together.
Serving Suggestions
Pair this chipotle lime shrimp & rice with grilled vegetables or a sliced avocado salad for a complete, colorful meal. It also makes a fantastic taco or burrito bowl filling if you're feeding a crowd.
Substitutions & Variations
Try brown rice or quinoa for a whole grain twist, or use cauliflower rice to keep it lighter. Feel free to adjust the chipotle level to match your preferred heat, or add sliced jalapeños for extra kick.
Allergen & Nutrition Info
This recipe contains shellfish (shrimp). All other ingredients are naturally gluten– and dairy–free, but always check packaged items for cross-contamination. Each serving contains approximately 340 calories, 9 g fat, 38 g carbohydrates, and 27 g protein.
Save This chipotle lime grilled shrimp & rice is proof that bold and balanced flavors can come together fast. Enjoy every bright, smoky bite!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → What type of shrimp works best for this dish?
Large, peeled, and deveined shrimp are ideal to ensure even marination and quick grilling.
- → Can I prepare the marinade in advance?
Yes, marinating the shrimp for 15 to 30 minutes enhances flavor without sacrificing texture.
- → What can I use instead of white rice?
Brown rice or quinoa can be substituted for a whole grain option with similar flavor profiles.
- → How spicy is the chipotle-lime marinade?
The chipotle peppers provide a smoky heat that can be adjusted by adding more chipotle or a pinch of cayenne.
- → Is grilling the only cooking method for the shrimp?
While grilling adds a desirable char and flavor, shrimp can also be cooked on a grill pan or broiled.
- → What garnishes enhance this dish?
Lime wedges and extra chopped cilantro add brightness and fresh herbal notes.