Craving a fast weeknight dinner solution? Try this easy chicken and shrimp stir-fry recipe for a quick homemade family favorite, made with savory chicken, shrimp, and veggies, save for later

Quick and Easy Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry Recipe for Healthy Dinners 🍤🍗

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken and shrimp, mixed with a variety of colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection in under 30 minutes. This Quick and Easy Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry Recipe is a game-changer for healthy dinners, utilizing everyday ingredients to create a culinary masterpiece that’s both easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a speedy meal solution or an avid home cook seeking to impress your family and friends with minimal effort, this recipe is your perfect companion. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity, allowing for endless creativity and substitutions to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: This recipe strikes a perfect balance between savory, sweet, and umami flavors, using ingredients that are easily found in most supermarkets.
• Ease of preparation: With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this dish is quicker than ordering takeout, making it an ideal solution for busy evenings.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: Despite its simplicity, the combination of chicken, shrimp, and a medley of vegetables results in a dish that’s not only delicious but also visually appealing, perfect for serving to guests or enjoying as a family meal.

Key Ingredients

This recipe centers around a few key ingredients: boneless, skinless chicken breasts, fresh or frozen shrimp, a mix of colorful bell peppers (such as red, yellow, and green), onions, garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, and your choice of noodles or rice. For added flavor, you can include sesame oil, grated ginger, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Practical substitutions can include using different types of protein like tofu for a vegetarian option, or swapping bell peppers with other crunchy vegetables like carrots or broccoli. The versatility of this recipe allows you to experiment with various ingredients, making it a great base for creativity in the kitchen.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by prepping your ingredients. Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces, peel and de-vein the shrimp, chop the bell peppers and onion into slices, and mince the garlic. Measure out your soy sauce, olive oil, and any additional seasonings you plan to use.
2. Step 2: Heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Next, add the shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and are fully cooked. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
3. Step 3: In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary, then add the minced garlic and grated ginger (if using) and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant. Add the sliced bell peppers and onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they start to soften. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Pour in the soy sauce and stir to coat the vegetables evenly. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
4. Step 4: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables and sauce. Cook for an additional minute to heat everything through. Serve the stir-fry over noodles or rice, garnished with sesame seeds and a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.

Handy Tips

• For a crunchier texture, add some chopped nuts or seeds towards the end of cooking. Cashews and peanuts work particularly well with the Asian-inspired flavors of this dish.
• If using frozen shrimp, make sure to thaw them first and pat dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture.
• Customize your stir-fry with your favorite vegetables. Mushrooms, snow peas, and baby corn are all great additions and can add variety to the dish.

Heat Control

The key to a successful stir-fry is controlling the heat. You want your skillet or wok to be hot before adding the ingredients, especially the protein, to achieve a nice sear. Medium-high heat is ideal for cooking the chicken and shrimp, while medium heat is better suited for cooking the vegetables to prevent burning. Always stir frequently to ensure even cooking and to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the pan.

Crunch Factor

Achieving the right texture is crucial in a stir-fry. You’re aiming for tender chicken and shrimp, crunchy vegetables, and possibly some crunchy elements like nuts or seeds. The bell peppers and onions should retain some crunch, while the chicken and shrimp should be cooked through but not tough. Adjust your cooking time based on the thickness of your chicken slices and the size of your shrimp to ensure everything is cooked to perfection.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a mixture of soy sauce and hoisin sauce for added depth of flavor. Hoisin sauce brings a sweet and savory element that complements the savory soy sauce perfectly.
• Prepare all your ingredients before starting to cook. This will make the cooking process smoother and less stressful, allowing you to focus on the technique and enjoying the process.
• Don’t overcrowd your skillet. Cook the ingredients in batches if necessary, to ensure they have enough room to cook evenly. This is especially important for the chicken and shrimp to prevent them from steaming instead of searing.

Storage Tips

• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a bit of water if the stir-fry seems too dry.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the cooked stir-fry. It’s best to freeze it without the noodles or rice, as these can become mushy when thawed. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
• When reheating, always check the temperature to ensure the food is heated through to a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to prevent foodborne illness.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a potluck or as a meal for a friend in need, consider packaging it in a decorative container or a microwave-safe bowl covered with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also portion it out into individual containers for a more personalized touch. Add a ribbon or a gift tag with heating instructions for a thoughtful and practical gift.

Flavor Variations

• 🌟 Different spices: Experiment with various spice blends like cumin for a Mexican twist, curry powder for an Indian-inspired flavor, or smoked paprika for a smoky depth.
• 🌟 Creative toppings: Add some freshness with chopped cilantro, scallions, or basil. For extra crunch, top with toasted peanuts, almonds, or cashews.
• 🌟 Ingredient swaps: Replace chicken with beef or pork for a different protein profile, or use tofu and tempeh for vegan alternatives. Swap soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your chicken or shrimp become tough, it may be due to overcooking. Try reducing the cooking time in future attempts. For vegetables that are too soft, reduce the cooking time or add them towards the end of the cooking process.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find a specific ingredient, don’t be afraid to substitute. For example, if you can’t find bell peppers, use another crunchy vegetable like zucchini or carrots.
• Over/undercooking signs: Chicken and shrimp should be cooked through and not pink in the center. Vegetables should be tender but still crisp. Adjust your cooking time based on the specific ingredients and their quantities.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, this stir-fry can be frozen, but it’s best to freeze it without the noodles or rice to preserve texture. Simply thaw and reheat when needed.
• Is it gluten-free? The basic recipe is gluten-free, but be mindful of the soy sauce. Look for gluten-free soy sauce or use tamari as a substitute to ensure the dish remains gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely, this recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd. Just ensure your skillet or wok is large enough to accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding.

Conclusion

This Quick and Easy Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry Recipe is a versatile and delicious addition to any meal repertoire. With its balance of protein, vegetables, and flavorful sauces, it’s a healthy and satisfying option for dinner. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make the recipe your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to explore the world of stir-fries and discover the joy of quick, easy, and flavorful cooking. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the process of cooking a meal that’s not only healthy but also incredibly tasty.