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spicy_garlic_chili_shrimp_skille

Spicy Garlic Chili Shrimp Skillet

This spicy garlic chili shrimp skillet combines juicy seared shrimp with buttery garlic, dried red chilies, smoky paprika, Cajun seasoning, oregano, and fresh lemon. Ready in just 20 minutes, it makes a bold and flavorful seafood dinner that pairs well with rice, noodles, or crusty bread.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun-Inspired
Calories: 340
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs large shrimp, peeled and deveined, tails on
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 8 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 to 10 dried red chilies
  • 1 tsp crushed red pepper flakes, optional
  • 1 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

  • large skillet
  • Tongs
  • Plate For holding the seared shrimp
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Arrange the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes per side until golden and lightly charred. Transfer the shrimp to a plate.
  3. Reduce the heat to medium and melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and dried red chilies. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the crushed red pepper flakes, if using, and dried oregano. Cook briefly so the seasonings blend into the garlic butter.
  5. Return the shrimp to the skillet and gently toss until every piece is coated in the spicy garlic chili butter.
  6. Add the fresh lemon juice and cook for another minute, tossing gently until the shrimp are hot and glossy.
  7. Sprinkle the spicy garlic shrimp with fresh parsley and serve immediately. Pair with rice, noodles, or crusty bread for a quick and flavorful seafood dinner.

Notes

Pat the shrimp thoroughly dry before seasoning so they sear instead of steaming.
Cook the shrimp in a single layer for the best golden color and light char.
Do not overcook the shrimp during the first sear because they will return to the skillet later.
Reduce the heat before adding the butter and garlic to prevent the garlic from burning.
The crushed red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted depending on your preferred heat level.
Add the lemon juice near the end to keep the flavor bright and fresh.
Serve immediately with rice, noodles, or crusty bread.