Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce

Posted on August 26, 2025

Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner option that is bursting with flavor, look no further than these Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce. This dish is not only easy to prepare, but it also combines succulent shrimp cooked in a rich garlic butter sauce, served over fluffy rice, and drizzled with a tangy chili lime sauce that takes it to the next level. Perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

The combination of garlic, butter, and shrimp is a classic that never fails to delight. Add in the freshness of lime juice and a hint of spice, and you have a dish that’s vibrant and refreshing. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and rewarding. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making these garlic butter shrimp rice bowls!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are countless reasons to fall in love with Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce. Here are just a few:

  • Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for weeknight dinners.
  • Flavor-Packed: The rich garlic butter and zesty chili lime sauce create a harmonious balance of flavors that dance on your palate.
  • Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and color.
  • Perfect for Meal Prep: These rice bowls store well in the fridge, making them a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
  • Kid-Friendly: The sweetness of the shrimp and the mild spice from the chili lime sauce make this dish appealing for all ages.

Each bite of these rice bowls is not just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that can transport you to a beachside restaurant. With the buttery garlic flavor complementing the tender shrimp and the refreshing chili lime sauce, you’ll keep coming back for more. Plus, the vibrant colors of the dish make it as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

Trying new recipes is one of the joys of cooking, and this Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce recipe is a must-try for several reasons:

  • Nutritious Ingredients: Shrimp is a lean protein source packed with essential nutrients, while the rice provides carbohydrates for energy. This dish is balanced and wholesome.
  • Simple Ingredients: The ingredients are easily accessible and can be found in your local grocery store, making it practical for any home cook.
  • Family-Friendly: The appealing flavors and colors are sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
  • A Great Introduction to Seafood: If you’re new to cooking seafood, this recipe is an excellent way to start. It’s simple and forgiving, and the shrimp cook quickly!
  • Perfect for Entertaining: Impress your guests with a dish that looks and tastes gourmet but requires minimal effort.

By making this recipe, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating an opportunity for connection and enjoyment around the dinner table. It’s a great way to explore flavors and elevate your cooking skills while serving a dish that’s sure to be a hit.

Ingredients and Necessary Utensils

Ingredients

To create these Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

  • For the Garlic Butter Shrimp:
    • 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • 4 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • For the Chili Lime Sauce:
    • 2 tablespoons lime juice
    • 1 tablespoon honey
    • 1 teaspoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon soy sauce
    • 1 tablespoon water
  • For the Rice:
    • 1 cup jasmine or basmati rice
    • 2 cups water
    • Salt, to taste

Necessary Utensils

To make your cooking experience smooth, gather these utensils:

  • Medium saucepan for cooking rice
  • Large skillet for sautéing shrimp
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Whisk for mixing the chili lime sauce
  • Cutting board and knife for chopping garlic and parsley
  • Serving bowls
  • Fork for fluffing rice

Detailed Recipe Steps

Now that you have all your ingredients and utensils ready, let’s dive into the cooking process:

Step 1: Cook the Rice

  1. Rinse the Rice: Start by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and a pinch of salt. Bring this mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the water is absorbed.
  4. Let It Sit: Once cooked, remove the rice from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow it to steam.

Step 2: Prepare the Garlic Butter Shrimp

  1. Melt the Butter: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Ensure it doesn’t brown too much; you want it just melted and bubbly.
  2. Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; this step is crucial for the flavor.
  3. Add Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking them to keep them tender.
  4. Garnish: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped parsley for garnish. This adds a fresh touch and a pop of color.

Step 3: Make the Chili Lime Sauce

  1. Whisk Together: In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, chili powder, soy sauce, and water until well combined. Adjust the seasoning to your taste; you can add more lime juice for tanginess or honey for sweetness.

Step 4: Assemble the Bowls

  1. Fluff the Rice: Use a fork to fluff the cooked rice and divide it evenly into serving bowls.
  2. Top with Shrimp: Generously top each bowl with the garlic butter shrimp.
  3. Drizzle Sauce: Drizzle the chili lime sauce over the shrimp and rice, ensuring every bite has that delicious flavor.
  4. Garnish: Optionally, garnish with extra parsley or lime wedges for a fresh finishing touch.

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking for the best results.

What type of rice is best for shrimp rice bowls?

Jasmine or basmati rice works best as they provide a fragrant and fluffy base for the shrimp. However, you can substitute with any rice you prefer.

Can I make the garlic butter shrimp in advance?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the shrimp in advance and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving.

How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the garlic butter sauce or the chili lime sauce.

What can I serve with garlic butter shrimp rice bowls?

These rice bowls can be served with a side salad, steamed vegetables, or even some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Conclusion

In summary, these Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce are a delicious and easy meal option that’s perfect for any occasion. With their vibrant flavors and quick preparation time, they are sure to become a staple in your household. Don’t forget to experiment with additional toppings or sides to make this dish your own!

If you try this recipe, please leave a comment below to share your thoughts or variations! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and check out my Pinterest for more delicious recipes. Happy cooking!

For more delightful dishes, explore my other recipes like Blackened Beef Rice Bowls and Crispy Garlic Shrimp with Chili Lime Sauce. Enjoy!

Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce

Garlic Butter Shrimp Rice Bowls with Chili Lime Sauce

Delicious garlic butter shrimp served over fluffy rice, drizzled with a zesty chili lime sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Seafood
Servings 4 servings
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large skillet
  • Small Bowl
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb Large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter
  • 4 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked paprika
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • 2 tablespoons Lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon Honey
  • 1 teaspoon Chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon Soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon Water
  • 1 cup Jasmine or basmati rice
  • 2 cups Water (for cooking rice)

Instructions
 

Instructions

  • Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
  • In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil.
  • Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
  • In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  • Add the shrimp to the skillet, sprinkle with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
  • Remove from heat and stir in chopped parsley for garnish.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, honey, chili powder, soy sauce, and water until well combined.
  • Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and divide it into serving bowls.
  • Top each bowl with the garlic butter shrimp.
  • Drizzle the chili lime sauce over the shrimp and rice.
  • Optionally, garnish with extra parsley or lime wedges.

Notes

Feel free to customize the spice level of the chili lime sauce to your preference.
Keyword garlic butter, rice bowl, shrimp

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