Cajun Shrimp and Rice

 Ingredients:

**For the Shrimp:**
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

**For the Rice:**
– 1 cup long-grain white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 pound ground sausage (optional)
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon oregano
– 1/2 cup chopped green onions
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

 Instructions:

1. **Prepare the Shrimp:**
– In a medium bowl, combine the shrimp, olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat the shrimp evenly.
– Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. **Cook the Rice:**
– In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth to a boil. Add the rice, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. Set aside.

3. **Cook the Sausage (if using):**
– In the same skillet used for the shrimp, add the ground sausage. Cook over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4. **Prepare the Vegetables:**
– In the same skillet, add olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the diced onion, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Cook until the vegetables are soft, about 5 minutes.

5. **Combine and Serve:**
– Add the cooked rice and sausage (if using) to the skillet with the vegetables. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, thyme, and oregano. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to let the flavors combine.
– Add the cooked shrimp and chopped green onions to the skillet. Stir gently to combine and heat through.
– Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Enjoy your flavorful Cajun shrimp and rice dish!