This delicious Chicken and Shrimp Recipe is a perfect blend of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce. With its quick preparation and bold flavors, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Whether served over pasta, rice, or alongside fresh vegetables, this recipe offers versatility and satisfaction. The combination of juicy chicken and shrimp makes it a protein-packed meal that’s as comforting as it is easy to make.
Ready to impress your family or guests with this irresistible dish? Let’s dive into the recipe and get started!
Ingredients for Chicken and Shrimp Recipe
Gather these flavorful ingredients to create a quick and delicious Chicken and Shrimp Recipe:
For the Chicken and Shrimp:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into small, bite-sized pieces.
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined – Fresh or thawed from frozen.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the chicken and shrimp.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Simple seasoning to enhance flavor.
For the Garlic Butter Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – Adds richness to the dish.
- 4 garlic cloves, minced – Provides bold, savory flavor.
- ½ teaspoon paprika – Enhances color and adds mild smokiness.
- ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional) – For a hint of spice.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice – Brightens the flavors and complements the shrimp.
- ¼ cup chicken broth or dry white wine – Adds depth and moisture to the sauce.
Optional Garnishes:
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley – Adds a touch of freshness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese – Perfect for serving if paired with pasta.
Suggested Pairings:
- Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread – Ideal for soaking up the delicious sauce.
- Roasted vegetables or a side salad – A great addition for a balanced meal.
Instructions for Chicken and Shrimp Recipe
Follow these simple steps to create a flavorful and satisfying Chicken and Shrimp Recipe:
Step 1: Season the Chicken and Shrimp
Pat the chicken and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season both with salt and black pepper on all sides.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for 2–3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), lemon juice, and chicken broth or wine. Let the sauce simmer for 2–3 minutes, allowing it to slightly reduce.
Step 5: Combine the Chicken and Shrimp
Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Toss them in the garlic butter sauce until evenly coated and heated through, about 2 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Transfer the chicken and shrimp to a serving plate or bowl. Garnish with chopped parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot over pasta, rice, or with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Tips for Success
Use Fresh or Thawed Ingredients
Ensure the shrimp is peeled, deveined, and fully thawed if using frozen. Similarly, use fresh chicken breasts or fully thawed chicken for even cooking.
Don’t Overcook the Shrimp
Shrimp cooks quickly, turning pink and opaque in just 2–3 minutes per side. Overcooking can make them rubbery, so keep a close eye on them.
Cut the Chicken Evenly
Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces of similar size. This ensures even cooking and prevents some pieces from drying out.
Season Generously
Don’t skimp on the salt and pepper for both the chicken and shrimp. Seasoning is key to bringing out the natural flavors of the protein.
Deglaze the Pan
When making the garlic butter sauce, use chicken broth or wine to deglaze the skillet. This step adds depth to the sauce by incorporating all the flavorful bits left from cooking the chicken and shrimp.
Customize the Heat Level
If you enjoy spicy flavors, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the sauce. For a milder version, leave them out entirely.
Serve Immediately
This dish tastes best when served fresh and hot. If pairing with pasta or rice, ensure it’s ready to go when the chicken and shrimp are finished.
Double the Sauce for Serving
If you love extra sauce, double the garlic butter sauce ingredients. This works particularly well when serving the dish over pasta or rice.
Variants of Chicken and Shrimp Recipe
Creamy Chicken and Shrimp
Add ½ cup of heavy cream and ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese to the garlic butter sauce for a rich, creamy twist. Serve over pasta for a comforting meal.
Spicy Cajun Chicken and Shrimp
Season the chicken and shrimp with Cajun seasoning instead of salt and pepper. Add smoked paprika to the sauce for an extra kick. Serve with rice or crusty bread.
Lemon Herb Chicken and Shrimp
Add 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs or fresh thyme to the sauce. Increase the lemon juice to 2 tablespoons for a zesty, herbaceous flavor.
Mediterranean Chicken and Shrimp
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese to the dish. Serve with couscous or quinoa for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Teriyaki Chicken and Shrimp
Swap the garlic butter sauce with a homemade or store-bought teriyaki sauce. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an Asian-inspired flavor.
Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry
Turn this recipe into a quick stir-fry by adding colorful vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. Use soy sauce and sesame oil for the sauce, and serve over steamed rice.
Grilled Chicken and Shrimp
Marinate the chicken and shrimp in a mix of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and spices. Grill them on skewers for a smoky, charred flavor. Perfect for summer BBQs!
Serving Suggestions
Serve Over Pasta
Pair the chicken and shrimp with fettuccine, linguine, or spaghetti. Toss the pasta in the garlic butter sauce for a complete, comforting meal.
Serve with Rice
Steamed white rice, brown rice, or even fragrant jasmine rice makes a perfect base to soak up the rich garlic butter sauce.
Pair with Crusty Bread
Serve alongside warm, crusty bread or garlic bread to mop up every bit of the delicious sauce.
Add a Side of Vegetables
Round out the meal with a side of roasted or steamed vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, or green beans. Their freshness balances the richness of the dish.
Include a Light Salad
A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the bold flavors of the chicken and shrimp. Add cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra texture.
Serve as Tacos
Spoon the chicken and shrimp into soft flour or corn tortillas, add slaw, and drizzle with the garlic butter sauce for a unique taco night twist.
Pair with Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes provide a hearty and satisfying base for this dish, soaking up the buttery, flavorful sauce.
FAQs About Chicken and Shrimp Recipe
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp works perfectly. Just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to prevent excess moisture.
What’s the best chicken to use?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor and juicier texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter in the sauce with olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp?
Shrimp cooks very quickly, turning pink and opaque in just 2–3 minutes per side. Watch closely and remove them from the pan as soon as they’re done.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus make great additions. Sauté them in the skillet before adding the garlic butter sauce.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to avoid overcooking the shrimp.
What sides pair best with this dish?
Pasta, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread are great options. For a lighter side, consider roasted vegetables or a green salad.
Conclusion
This Chicken and Shrimp Recipe is a perfect combination of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a flavorful garlic butter sauce that’s sure to please everyone at the table. Quick to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.
With endless serving options and customizable variations, this recipe is as adaptable as it is delicious. Whether you pair it with pasta, rice, or vegetables, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
Try this recipe today and enjoy the delicious balance of juicy chicken, fresh shrimp, and rich, buttery sauce. Your family and friends will thank you!
If you love chicken dishes, don’t miss our cheesy and flavorful Alice Springs Chicken Recipe for a crowd-pleasing dinner option!
