introduction
This Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Rice Bowl is quick, spicy, and creamy. It uses seared shrimp, rice, and a simple chipotle cream sauce. Serve it for lunch or a fast weeknight dinner. For a different rice base, try this creamy smothered chicken and rice idea for inspiration.
why make this recipe
You can make this bowl in about 20 minutes. It tastes fresh and smoky. The sauce is rich but easy to mix. This dish works for busy nights and for guests. If you like bold flavors, check a similar comfort meal like cheesy chicken and rice for more ideas.
How to make Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Rice Bowl
- Marinate & Sear the Shrimp: Toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Sear in a hot skillet 2–3 minutes per side until blackened and juicy.
- Make the Creamy Chipotle Sauce: In a bowl, mix mayo, sour cream, blended chipotle peppers, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, and salt.
- Build the Bowl: Scoop rice into bowls, layer the seared shrimp on top, then drizzle with the chipotle sauce.
- Finish with Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and an optional extra squeeze of lime.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp fresh lime juice
- 2 cups cooked white or jasmine rice
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro (for garnish)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo (blended)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
how to serve Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Rice Bowl
Serve the rice hot. Put the shrimp on top and spoon the chipotle sauce over everything. Add extra lime wedges on the side. A small salad or steamed veggies go well with it.
how to store Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Rice Bowl
Cool the shrimp and rice to room temperature. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the sauce in a separate container for best texture. Reheat shrimp gently in a skillet or microwave until warm.
tips to make Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Rice Bowl
- Dry the shrimp with a paper towel before seasoning. This helps a good sear.
- Use a hot skillet and do not crowd the pan. Cook in batches if needed.
- Taste the sauce and add more chipotle if you want more heat.
- For a sweeter touch, add a little more honey.
- For another chipotle-style meal idea, see chipotle honey chicken for flavor tips you can use here.
variation (if any)
- Use grilled shrimp instead of pan-seared for a smoky touch.
- Swap white rice for brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a lighter bowl.
- Add veggies like corn, black beans, or avocado for more color and texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes. Thaw fully and pat dry before seasoning and cooking.
Q: How spicy is the sauce?
A: Spice depends on how many chipotle peppers you add. Start with one pepper and taste.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead?
A: Yes. Make it and store in the fridge up to 3 days. Stir before using.
Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes. Greek yogurt works and adds a tangy taste.
Q: Is this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes, the recipe is gluten-free as written. Check labels on mayo and adobo peppers to be sure.
Conclusion
For more ideas and a similar flavor profile, see this full recipe for Chipotle Shrimp Bowls with Cilantro Lime Cream Sauce – A Kitchen ….

Creamy Chipotle Shrimp Rice Bowl
Ingredients
Method
- Toss shrimp with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
- Sear in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes per side until blackened and juicy.
- In a bowl, mix together mayo, sour cream, blended chipotle peppers, lime juice, honey, garlic powder, and salt.
- Scoop rice into bowls, layer the seared shrimp on top, then drizzle with the chipotle sauce.
- Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top and add an optional extra squeeze of lime.