One-Pan Shrimp Scampi Rice with Asparagus in 25 Minutes

Busy weeknights call for meals that are fast, flavorful, and fuss-free. This one-pan shrimp scampi rice with asparagus fits the bill perfectly. It combines tender shrimp, bright lemon-garlic flavors, and fresh asparagus all cooked together with fluffy rice in just 25 minutes. This dish is not only a time-saver but also a crowd-pleaser that feels special without the extra effort.

One-pan shrimp scampi rice with asparagus ready to serve

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make four servings of this vibrant dish, gather the following:

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined

• 1 cup long-grain white rice or jasmine rice

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Grated cheese for topping (Parmesan works great)

• 5 cloves garlic, minced

• Zest and juice of 1 large lemon

• ½ cup dry white wine (optional, but adds depth)

• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a mild kick)

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped

• Salt and pepper to taste

  
  

These ingredients come together to create a dish that balances richness, acidity, and freshness.

Step 1: Sear the Shrimp

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper, then add them to the pan. Cook each side for 1 to 2 minutes until the shrimp turn pink and just start to curl. Avoid overcooking here because the shrimp will finish cooking later with the rice. Remove the shrimp to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Build the Scampi Base

Add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds. Be careful not to let the garlic brown, as it will turn bitter. Pour in the white wine or a splash of chicken broth if you prefer to skip the wine. Let this simmer for 1 to 2 minutes to reduce slightly and concentrate the flavors.

Step 3: Add the Rice and Flavorings

Stir the dry rice into the buttery garlic mixture, coating each grain well. Then pour in the chicken broth, lemon zest, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step infuses the rice with the bright lemon and garlic flavors that make this dish so irresistible.

Step 4: Add Asparagus and Steam

Lay the asparagus pieces on top of the rice without stirring. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook on low heat for about 15 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the liquid and become tender while the asparagus steams to a perfect crisp-tender texture.

Step 5: Finish with Shrimp and Herbs

Once the rice is fluffy and the liquid is absorbed, nestle the shrimp back on top of the asparagus and rice. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and sprinkle the chopped parsley over everything. Cover the pan again and let it sit for 2 minutes to warm the shrimp through and melt the butter into the dish.

Serve with extra lemon slices around the edge of the skillet and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. A drizzle of melted butter on top adds a beautiful shine and extra richness.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen, thaw completely before cooking.

• Jasmine rice adds a subtle floral aroma, but long-grain white rice works well too.

• If you don’t have white wine, chicken broth alone will still make a tasty base.

• Adjust red pepper flakes to your heat preference or omit for a milder dish.

• Don’t skip the lemon zest and juice; they brighten the whole dish and balance the richness.

• Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness, but basil or chives can work as alternatives.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Nights

This recipe shines because it uses just one pan, cutting down on cleanup and cooking time. The shrimp cooks quickly, and the rice absorbs all the delicious garlic, lemon, and butter flavors. Adding asparagus on top steams it gently, so you get a complete meal with protein, veggies, and carbs all in one skillet.

The lemon-garlic combination is classic and fresh, making the dish feel light yet satisfying. Plus, the optional white wine adds a subtle depth that elevates the flavors without complicating the process.

Final Thoughts