Smoky Magic Of Chipotle Shrimp Recipe

Craving a taste of bold, smoky flavors with a touch of heat? Look no further than the humble chipotle pepper! This magical ingredient, nestled in a bed of adobo sauce, has the power to transform everyday dishes into culinary masterpieces.

And when it meets succulent shrimp, a symphony of textures and tastes erupts on your palate. This Chipotle Shrimp Recipe isn’t just about following steps – it’s about embracing the art of the smoky kiss. It’s about plump, juicy shrimp bathed in a rich, creamy sauce that tingles with a touch of heat. It’s about a dish that’s both versatile and easy to prepare, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering.

So, ditch the delivery menus and the frozen aisles. Today, we’re embarking on a flavor adventure, unlocking the secrets of Chipotle Shrimp and empowering you to create a restaurant-worthy dish in your own kitchen. Get ready to unleash your inner chef, embrace the smoky magic of chipotle peppers, and savor the delicious results!

Chipotle Shrimp Recipe

Recipe by Marie JohnsonCourse: Main CourseCuisine: MexicanDifficulty: Medium

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

770

kcal

Chipotle Shrimp recipe! Plump, succulent shrimp are bathed in a rich and spicy chipotle sauce, bursting with smoky chilies, tangy citrus, and warm spices. It’s a quick and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual get-together.

Ingredients

The Starring Shrimp: 1 pound of large, raw, and preferably deveined shrimp adds a succulent, protein-packed base to the dish. Jumbo shrimp will make a stunning presentation, but any size will work beautifully.
Smoky Symphony: Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are the secret weapon! You’ll need 1-2 tablespoons, depending on your heat preference. Chipotle peppers add a smoky depth of flavor and a touch of heat, so start with less and adjust to your taste.

Creamy Dream Team: Heavy cream (1 cup) and Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup) are the foundation of the rich and creamy sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese offers the meltiest experience, but pre-shredded works in a pinch.
Aromatic Alliance: Garlic (2 cloves, minced) and onion (1/2 cup, chopped) form the aromatic base of the sauce, adding depth and complexity of flavor.
Spice Symphony: Ground cumin (1 teaspoon) and smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon) add a warm, earthy touch that complements the smokiness of the chipotle peppers.

Flavor Boosters: Chicken broth (3/4 cup) creates a flavorful base for the sauce. Fresh lime juice (1 tablespoon) adds a necessary brightness that cuts through the richness. Honey (1 tablespoon) balances the spice and adds a touch of sweetness, mirroring the magic of restaurant-quality dishes.
Seasoning Savvy: Salt and pepper to taste are essential for rounding out the flavor profile.
Optional Garnishes: Chopped fresh cilantro, crumbled queso fresco, and a squeeze of lime add a pop of color, freshness, and tang to the finished dish

Directions

Prepping the Players: Pat your shrimp dry with paper towels. This ensures even browning when they hit the hot pan. Season them generously with salt and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk together the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. This creamy duo will be the heart and soul of your sauce, so give it a good stir to combine.
Searing the Shrimp: Heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat in your large skillet or Dutch oven. Once hot and shimmering, add the shrimp. Don’t crowd the pan – cook them in batches if necessary to ensure even browning. Sear the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn opaque and cooked through. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll become rubbery. Once cooked, transfer the shrimp to a plate and set them aside.
Aromatic Symphony: Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan with the leftover shrimp drippings (those are flavor bombs!). Saute them for 5-7 minutes, or until the onions are softened and translucent. This step awakens the aromatic potential of the garlic and onion, infusing their essence into the sauce.

Spice Symphony: Here comes the magic! Add the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the pan with the softened vegetables. Use a spoon to break them down slightly, releasing their smoky depth of flavor. Be mindful of the amount – start with 1 tablespoon and taste as you go. Remember, you can always add more for extra heat, but there’s no turning back!
Flavorful Foundation: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. These browned bits hold immense flavor, so don’t let them go to waste! Let the broth simmer for a few minutes, allowing it to absorb the delicious essence of the chipotle peppers and vegetables.
Creamy Dream Team: Now comes the moment we’ve all been waiting for – introducing the creamy Parmesan sauce. Slowly whisk the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese mixture into the simmering broth. As you whisk, the cheese will melt and create a smooth, luscious sauce. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and thicken slightly.

Spice and Sweetness: Add the ground cumin and smoked paprika to the sauce. Stir them in and let them cook for a minute, releasing their warm, earthy aromas. Then, drizzle in the honey and freshly squeezed lime juice. The honey balances the spice of the chipotle peppers and adds a touch of sweetness that elevates the entire dish, while the lime juice cuts through the richness with a burst of brightness. Taste the sauce and adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, or additional chipotle peppers according to your preference.
The Grand Reunion: It’s time to bring all the elements together! Add the cooked shrimp back to the pan with the creamy chipotle sauce. Gently toss everything together to coat the shrimp evenly in the delicious sauce. Let the shrimp warm through for a minute or two, allowing them to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
The Final Flourish: Remove the pan from the heat. If desired, for an extra touch of freshness and vibrancy, stir in a handful of chopped fresh cilantro.

Plate Up and Devour!: Serve your Chipotle Shrimp immediately over a bed of your favorite rice (think cilantro-lime rice, white rice, or even cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option). Garnish with a sprinkle of crumbled queso fresco (or crumbled feta if you don’t have queso fresco) and a squeeze of fresh lime for an added pop of flavor and visual appeal. Every bite is a symphony of creamy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, transporting you to a world of deliciousness. Enjoy your restaurant-quality creation made right at home!

Recipe Video

Tips For Chipotle Shrimp Recipe

Conquering Chipotle Shrimp isn’t just about following the steps – it’s about embracing the art of the smoky, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp. Here are some insider tips to elevate your shrimp game from good to great:

Temperature Control is Key: Medium-high heat is your friend for searing the shrimp. Too high, and you risk burning them or scorching the delicate flavors of the chipotle peppers. Too low, and they won’t brown properly. Reduce the heat to medium after searing for the remaining steps.

Don’t Crowd the Pan: When searing the shrimp, resist the urge to overcrowd the pan. This will prevent even browning and lead to steamed shrimp instead of beautifully browned, flavorful pieces.
Embrace the Browned Bits: Those browned bits left in the pan after searing the shrimp are flavor bombs! Don’t discard them. Deglaze the pan with the chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits with your spatula. This infuses the broth with deep, savory goodness.
Spice It Up (or Down): Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce pack a smoky heat, but the amount you use is completely customizable. Start with 1 tablespoon and taste the sauce as you go. Remember, you can always add more for extra fire, but taming the spice after the fact is much harder!

The Power of Pasta Water (or Broth): Reserve about 1/4 cup of chicken broth from the simmering stage. If your sauce seems too thick after adding the shrimp back in, you can add a splash or two of broth to achieve the desired consistency. This helps prevent the sauce from breaking and keeps everything nice and creamy.
Freshness Matters: For the best flavor, use freshly grated Parmesan cheese whenever possible. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect meltability and taste.
Leftover Magic: Leftover Chipotle Shrimp can be enjoyed for lunch the next day. Reheat them gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed to prevent dryness.

Get Creative with Veggies: This recipe is a springboard for your culinary adventures! Explore adding different vegetables like chopped bell peppers, corn, or even a handful of cherry tomatoes for pops of color and flavor.
Cilantro Sensation: Freshly chopped cilantro adds a vibrant pop of color and a refreshing touch to the finished dish. It’s a simple garnish that elevates the entire experience.

Serving Tips For Chipotle Shrimp Recipe

Your masterpiece of creamy chipotle sauce and succulent shrimp deserves a stage worthy of its deliciousness. Here are some serving suggestions to transform your Chipotle Shrimp recipe into a complete and visually stunning meal:

Classic Comfort: Channel a touch of home-cooked comfort food with a side of fluffy white rice. The neutral flavor of the rice perfectly complements the smoky and slightly sweet sauce, allowing the shrimp to take center stage.
Latin Flair: Embrace the Latin spirit of the chipotle peppers with a bed of cilantro-lime rice. The vibrant green flecks of cilantro and the bright citrus notes of the lime juice add a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the dish.
Garden Glory: Balance the creamy richness of the shrimp with a vibrant salad. A simple chopped romaine salad with a citrusy vinaigrette is a refreshing choice. Craving something with a bit more heft? Consider a chopped salad with black beans, corn, and avocado for a protein and fiber boost.

Soup-er Combination: Pair your Chipotle Shrimp with a bowl of creamy tomato soup or a hearty black bean soup for a well-rounded and satisfying meal. The contrasting textures and temperatures create a delightful dining experience.
DIY Chipotle Bar: Take inspiration from the Chipotle restaurant experience and set out a platter of your favorite toppings to create a DIY Chipotle bar at home. Think sour cream, salsa, crumbled queso fresco, chopped fresh cilantro, sliced jalapenos, and a variety of hot sauces for those who crave extra fire.
Guacamole Glory: Homemade guacamole is a match made in heaven for this smoky, spicy dish. The cool, creamy avocado perfectly complements the rich cheese and shrimp, adding a healthy dose of fats and a touch of textural contrast.

Bread Basket Bonanza: A basket of warm, crusty bread is a delightful addition for mopping up every last bit of that irresistible chipotle sauce. Crusty sourdough, focaccia, or even slices of a French baguette all pair beautifully with the creamy sauce and succulent shrimp.
Light and Fresh Finish: End your spicy fiesta on a refreshing note with a side of sliced fruit or a dollop of yogurt with a drizzle of honey. This light and sweet ending perfectly complements the savory shrimp and smoky sauce.

Nutrition in Chipotle Shrimp Recipe

The beauty of this Chipotle Shrimp Recipe lies in its adaptability. Depending on the ingredients you choose and the portion size you enjoy, the nutritional profile can vary.

Protein Powerhouse: Shrimp is an excellent source of lean protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass. A serving of shrimp typically provides around 15-20 grams of protein, making it a satisfying choice.
Creamy Considerations: Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese add richness and flavor to the sauce, but they also contribute fat and calories. Enjoying a moderate portion size and using lower-fat alternatives like half-and-half or low-fat Parmesan can help manage the overall fat content.
Carbohydrate Connection: The type of rice you choose will significantly impact the carbohydrate content of your dish. White rice is a good source of energy, but brown rice offers a higher fiber content, making you feel fuller for longer. Consider cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option.

Veggie Power: Vegetables like onions, bell peppers, and even corn add essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber to the dish. They provide a pop of color, texture, and essential micronutrients without a significant calorie contribution.
Spice Spark: Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a smoky depth of flavor and a touch of heat. They’re also a good source of vitamin A, which supports healthy vision and immunity. However, they can be high in sodium, so adjust the amount you use based on your dietary needs.

Conclusion

With this Chipotle Shrimp Recipe in your arsenal, you can ditch the takeout menus and delivery apps, recreating restaurant-worthy magic right at home. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, adjust the spice level to your preference, or swap the bed of rice for a bed of quinoa for a protein and fiber boost. Craving a vegetarian version? Tofu crumbles or hearts of palm can be delightful substitutes for the shrimp.

This recipe is an invitation to unleash your inner chef, to embrace the smoky magic of chipotle peppers, and to savor the delicious results. So crank up the music, light some candles, and set the table for a feast for the senses. With its creamy, smoky, and slightly sweet flavors, this dish is guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.

Remember, cooking is all about having fun and expressing your creativity in the kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, embrace the smoky spirit of chipotle peppers, and get ready to create a taste of culinary adventure. Now go forth, conquer your cravings, and share the joy of Chipotle Shrimp with loved ones. Buen provecho (Spanish for “enjoy your meal”) and happy cooking!

FAQs

What is chipotle sauce made of?

Chipotle sauce is typically made from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, lime juice, garlic, and spices. These ingredients are blended together to create a creamy and smoky sauce with a hint of heat.

What is in chipotle paste?

Chipotle paste is made from chipotle peppers that have been smoked and dried, then rehydrated and blended into a thick paste. Sometimes, additional ingredients such as adobo sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices are added to enhance the flavor and texture of the paste.

How to use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce?

Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce can be used in a variety of ways to add smoky, spicy flavor to dishes. They can be chopped and added to marinades, sauces, soups, stews, chili, or salsa for a bold and complex flavor. Alternatively, you can blend the peppers and adobo sauce together to create a spicy and flavorful sauce or dip.

Marie Johnson

Marie Johnson is an accomplished recipe blog writer, blending her passion for cooking with her knack for storytelling. With years of experience in the culinary world, Marie’s writing transports readers into the heart of her kitchen, where every dish tells a delicious tale. Her recipes are not just instructions; they’re invitations to embark on culinary adventures, exploring flavors, cultures, and traditions.

Smoky Magic Of Chipotle Shrimp Recipe