Rice Cooker Garlic Shrimp with Chorizo: Easy One-Pot Recipe

If you’re looking for a quick, flavorful, and satisfying meal, this Rice Cooker Garlic Shrimp with Chorizo recipe is a game-changer. Combining the rich, smoky taste of chorizo with succulent shrimp and fragrant garlic, this dish is both easy to prepare and packed with bold flavors. Best of all, it’s made entirely in a rice cooker, which means minimal cleanup and maximum convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this dish delivers in both taste and simplicity.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 cup jasmine rice (or any long-grain rice)

• 1 lb (450g) large shrimp (peeled and deveined)

• 4 oz (115g) chorizo (sliced into thin rounds)

• 4 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 cup chicken broth

• 1/2 cup white wine (optional)

• 1 small onion (finely chopped)

• 1/2 red bell pepper (diced)

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• Salt and black pepper (to taste)

• 2 green onions (chopped, for garnish)

• Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Optional Add-Ons:

• Frozen peas – for added sweetness and color

• Cherry tomatoes – for a burst of freshness

• Spinach or kale – for extra greens

Kitchen Tools Needed

•  Rice Cooker
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
•  Wooden Spoon

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.

2. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels. Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.

3. Slice the chorizo into thin rounds and finely chop the garlic, onion, and bell pepper.

Step 2: Sauté the Chorizo and Aromatics

1. Turn on the rice cooker to the “sauté” or “cook” setting (if available).

2. Add the olive oil and sliced chorizo. Cook for 2–3 minutes until the chorizo starts to release its oils and becomes slightly crispy.

3. Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Liquids

1. Stir in the rinsed rice, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to coat the rice in the flavorful oils from the chorizo.

2. Pour in the chicken broth and white wine (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 4: Cook the Rice

1. Close the lid of the rice cooker and set it to the “white rice” or “regular” setting.

2. Let the rice cook for about 20 minutes (or according to your rice cooker’s instructions).

Step 5: Add the Shrimp

1. Once the rice is almost done (about 5 minutes before the end), open the lid and gently place the seasoned shrimp on top of the rice mixture.

2. Close the lid and allow the shrimp to steam with the residual heat until they turn pink and opaque (about 5 minutes).

Step 6: Finish and Garnish

1. Once the rice and shrimp are fully cooked, open the lid and fluff the rice with a fork.

2. Drizzle with lemon juice and garnish with chopped green onions and fresh parsley.

3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serving Size and Yield

• Servings: 4

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cooking Time: 25 minutes

• Total Time: 35 minutes

Pro Tips for Rice Cooker Garlic Shrimp with Chorizo Success

• Use high-quality chorizo – Spanish or Mexican chorizo works well. Spanish chorizo is cured and has a firmer texture, while Mexican chorizo is fresh and spicier.
• Don’t overcook the shrimp – They only need a few minutes to cook through, so adding them at the end ensures they remain juicy and tender.
• Deglaze the pot – If you notice the chorizo sticking to the rice cooker, add a splash of chicken broth or white wine to loosen the flavorful bits.
• Make it spicier – Increase the cayenne or add a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth to keep the rice moist.
Freezing: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What to Serve with Rice Cooker Garlic Shrimp with Chorizo

Side Salad: A simple arugula and tomato salad with a lemon vinaigrette balances the richness of the dish.
Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.
Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Albariño complements the garlic and chorizo flavors perfectly.

Why This Recipe Works

This Rice Cooker Garlic Shrimp with Chorizo is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a rich and satisfying dish. The smoky and spicy chorizo infuses the rice with incredible depth, while the garlic and shrimp add a delicate, briny sweetness. Cooking everything in the rice cooker makes this dish low-maintenance and virtually foolproof — just set it and forget it!

Health Benefits of Shrimp and Chorizo

Combining shrimp and chorizo in one dish not only creates a bold and satisfying flavor profile but also provides several health benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the nutritional advantages of these two key ingredients:

1. Shrimp – Low in Calories, High in Protein

Shrimp is one of the leanest sources of protein, making it an excellent option for anyone looking to maintain muscle mass while managing their calorie intake. A 4-ounce (113g) serving of shrimp contains about 23 grams of protein and only 100 calories. Shrimp is also rich in essential nutrients, including:

• Omega-3 fatty acids – Promotes heart and brain health while reducing inflammation.

• Selenium – A powerful antioxidant that supports immune function and thyroid health.

• Vitamin B12 – Essential for red blood cell production and proper nerve function.

Shrimp is also naturally low in carbohydrates and fat, making it ideal for low-carb, keto, and high-protein diets. Its mild flavor makes it a versatile ingredient in both savory and spicy dishes.

2. Chorizo – Bold Flavor and Nutritional Value

While chorizo is higher in fat, it provides several key nutrients that support overall health:

• Protein – Chorizo delivers around 9 grams of protein per ounce, which helps maintain muscle mass and repair tissues.

• Iron – Supports oxygen transport in the blood, helping prevent fatigue and weakness.

• Vitamin B6 and B12 – Important for energy metabolism and brain function.

• Monounsaturated fats – Healthy fats that may help reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) levels.

Moderation is key with chorizo due to its higher fat and sodium content, but when balanced with nutrient-rich ingredients like shrimp and vegetables, it creates a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

3. Garlic – A Natural Immune Booster

Garlic adds more than just flavor to this dish—it’s packed with health benefits:

• Contains allicin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.

• Supports heart health by reducing cholesterol levels and improving circulation.

• Boosts immune function and helps the body fight infections.

By combining these nutrient-dense ingredients, this dish offers a balanced blend of lean protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins, making it not only delicious but also nourishing.

How to Customize the Recipe to Fit Your Diet

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily modify the ingredients or preparation method to fit your dietary preferences and needs without sacrificing flavor or texture. Here are some ways to customize this dish:

1. Make It Low-Carb or Keto

To reduce the carbohydrate content, swap the jasmine rice for:

• Cauliflower rice – Low in carbs and high in fiber, cauliflower rice absorbs the flavors of the chorizo and garlic beautifully.

• Shirataki rice – Made from konjac root, this zero-carb alternative mimics the texture of rice while keeping the dish light.

Simply sauté the rice substitute with the other ingredients, and reduce the amount of liquid used to prevent it from becoming too watery.

2. Make It Gluten-Free

The recipe is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free chorizo and broth. Double-check the labels on your chorizo and broth to avoid any hidden gluten.

3. Make It Spicy or Mild

• To make the dish spicier – Add extra cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when adding the liquid.

• To make the dish milder – Use sweet paprika instead of smoked paprika and reduce or omit the cayenne pepper.

4. Make It Dairy-Free

This recipe is naturally dairy-free, but if you want to add creaminess without using dairy, stir in a dollop of coconut cream or cashew cream at the end of cooking.

5. Make It Vegetarian

Swap out the shrimp and chorizo for plant-based alternatives:

• Plant-based chorizo – Available at most grocery stores and offers a similar smoky flavor.

• Chickpeas or white beans – Adds protein and a hearty texture.

• Mushrooms – Provide a rich umami flavor that pairs well with garlic and paprika.

Customizing the recipe to fit your dietary needs makes it even more appealing and ensures that everyone at the table can enjoy it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Shrimp and Chorizo

Even though this dish is easy to make, a few common mistakes can affect the final outcome. Here’s how to avoid them:

1. Overcooking the Shrimp

Shrimp cooks quickly—usually in just 2–3 minutes. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery and tough. To prevent this, add the shrimp toward the end of the cooking process, allowing them to cook with the residual heat.

Tip: Once the shrimp turn pink and opaque, they’re done! Remove them from heat immediately.

2. Not Rinsing the Rice

Skipping the rice rinse can lead to sticky, gummy rice. Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, helping the grains cook up fluffy and separate.

Tip: Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear.

3. Using the Wrong Type of Chorizo

There are two main types of chorizo:

• Spanish chorizo – Cured and ready to eat, it’s firmer and smokier.

• Mexican chorizo – Raw and needs to be cooked before use.

Using the wrong type can result in uneven cooking or a dish that’s too oily. If using Mexican chorizo, brown it separately before adding to the rice cooker.

4. Adding Too Much Liquid

Rice cookers vary in how they absorb liquid. Adding too much broth or wine can result in soggy rice. Start with the recommended amount, and adjust as needed based on your rice cooker model.

Tip: If the rice is too wet after cooking, leave the lid open and let it sit for a few minutes to absorb excess moisture.

5. Forgetting to Deglaze the Pot

Chorizo tends to stick to the bottom of the pot, which can lead to burning. Deglazing with a splash of white wine or broth helps lift the flavorful bits and prevents burning.

Tip: Use a wooden spoon to scrape the bottom of the pot gently while deglazing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, just thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking.

2. What type of chorizo works best?
Spanish chorizo is firmer and smokier, while Mexican chorizo is spicier and softer. Both work well in this recipe.

3. Can I make this without a rice cooker?
Yes! Follow the same steps using a large skillet or Dutch oven. After adding the broth and rice, cover and simmer over low heat until the rice is cooked through.

Final Thoughts

This Rice Cooker Garlic Shrimp with Chorizo recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. With minimal prep, bold flavors, and easy cleanup, it’s a meal you’ll want to make again and again. Try it today and discover how a simple rice cooker can create restaurant-quality results! 🍤🌶️🍚

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