How to Make Flavor-Packed Chicken and Shrimp Dishes in No Time
Chicken and shrimp are a versatile and flavorful protein pairing that works well in a wide range of dishes, from stir-fries and pasta to skewers and salads. Their contrasting textures—mild, juicy chicken and sweet, tender shrimp—create a balanced, satisfying meal. Both proteins cook quickly, making them ideal for busy weeknights.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or frying pan For cooking chicken and shrimp
- 1 Saucepan or pot For pasta or sauces
- 1 Cutting Board For chopping vegetables and slicing chicken
- 1 Chef’s knife For cutting ingredients
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula For stirring ingredients
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons For precise ingredient measurements
- 1 Tongs For turning chicken and shrimp
- 1 Grill or Grill Pan For chicken and shrimp skewers
Ingredients
- 2 | lbs | Chicken breast | Sliced or cubed
- 1 | lbs | Shrimp | Peeled and deveined
- 1 | | Bell pepper | Sliced
- 1 | | Onion | Sliced
- 2 | tbsp | Olive oil | For cooking
- 3 | cloves | Garlic | Minced
- 2 | cups | Heavy cream | For creamy sauces
- 1 | cup | Parmesan cheese | Grated
- 1 | tbsp | Soy sauce | For stir-fry
- 1 | tsp | Ginger | Freshly grated
- 1 | tsp | Sesame oil | Optional for stir-fry
- 1 | tbsp | Lemon juice | For skewers or flavoring
- 1 | tsp | Paprika | Optional seasoning
- 1 | tsp | Italian herbs | Optional seasoning
- To taste | Salt | Seasoning
- To taste | Pepper | Seasoning
- Optional | | Fresh parsley | Chopped for garnish
- Optional | | Bread or rice | Side dish
- Optional | | Vegetables | Broccoli asparagus, or zucchini for sides
Instructions
- 1 | Cook the Chicken | Season chicken with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- 2 | Cook the Shrimp | In the same pan, add shrimp and cook 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- 3 | Prepare Stir-Fry Vegetables | Add sliced bell pepper and onion to the pan, stir-fry 3-4 minutes until slightly tender. Add garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil, stirring for 1-2 minutes.
- 4 | Combine Protein with Stir-Fry | Return chicken and shrimp to the pan. Toss everything together until evenly coated with sauce. Serve over steamed rice or noodles.
- 5 | Make Creamy Pasta Sauce | In a separate pan, melt 2 tbsp butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté 1 minute. Pour in 2 cups heavy cream and simmer 3-5 minutes. Gradually stir in 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese until creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
- 6 | Combine Pasta with Sauce | Cook pasta according to package directions. Toss pasta with creamy sauce, then fold in cooked chicken and shrimp. Mix until everything is coated.
- 7 | Prepare Skewers (Optional) | Marinate chicken cubes and shrimp with lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes. Thread onto skewers and grill 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
- 8 | Garnish and Serve | Sprinkle chopped parsley and extra Parmesan on top. Serve immediately with optional sides like bread, rice, or vegetables.