As the sun sets, the day ends, and hunger strikes. But don’t worry, I’ve got the perfect fix. Here are easy and tasty chicken and shrimp recipes for a quick dinner.
Chicken and shrimp together is a culinary dream. These meals are packed with protein and taste great. You’ll find something for everyone, from one-pan dishes to grilled favorites.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Quick and Easy Protein-Packed Meals
Make your weeknight dinners better with chicken and shrimp. These lean proteins add nutrition and flavor to your meals. They are easy to mix and make tasty, quick dishes.
Benefits of Combining Chicken and Shrimp
Chicken and shrimp are great together. Chicken is a healthy protein source with less fat and more nutrients. Shrimp is a lean, low-calorie protein. They make a meal that’s good for you and tastes great.
Essential Kitchen Tools and Ingredients
- Skillet or wok: For sautéing, stir-frying, and searing the chicken and shrimp.
- Grill pan: Allows you to achieve a delicious charred flavor on your proteins.
- Instant-read thermometer: Ensures your chicken and shrimp are cooked to the perfect temperature.
- Cajun seasoning: Adds a bold, spicy-sweet flavor to your dishes.
- Garlic: Enhances the savory notes in your recipes.
- Olive oil and butter: Provide a flavorful cooking medium and help create a delectable sauce.
With the right tools and ingredients, you can make quick and easy protein-packed meals. They will impress your family and friends.
Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp Recipe
Experience the French Quarter’s flavors with this Cajun-inspired Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp recipe. It combines tender Cajun-seasoned chicken with succulent blackened shrimp. This dish is a protein-packed delight that will satisfy your cravings.
To start, marinate the chicken and shrimp in a mix of Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, and salt for 2 to 24 hours. This step infuses the proteins with an irresistible depth of taste. Then, sauté the shrimp in a skillet with olive oil until they’re perfectly blackened, about 1 to 3 minutes per side.
Next, place the chicken in a baking dish and roast it in a 350°F oven for 12 to 18 minutes, or until it’s cooked through. In the final minutes, add the sautéed shrimp to the chicken. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Cajun seasoning | 2 tablespoons |
| Brown sugar | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Boneless, skinless chicken breasts | 2 |
| Jumbo shrimp, peeled and deveined | 1/2 pound |
| Olive oil | 3 tablespoons |
| Unsalted butter | 6 tablespoons |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
Serve this Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp over creamy garlic mashed potatoes. Add sautéed vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal. Enjoy the bold Cajun flavors and the perfect balance of chicken and shrimp in every bite.
Honey Garlic Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry
Make your weeknight dinner special with this honey garlic chicken and shrimp stir-fry. It’s a mix of tender chicken and juicy shrimp, all in a tasty sauce. This dish is packed with protein and is quick to make.
Marinade Preparation Tips
First, we marinate the chicken and shrimp. For the chicken, mix soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger. Let it soak for 15-30 minutes. The shrimp just needs salt and pepper.
Cooking Temperature and Timing Guide
Heat a big skillet or wok over medium-high. Add oil and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes. They should be opaque and cooked. Then, cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes, until it’s not pink anymore.
Sauce Variations
The sauce is the main attraction. Mix the marinade, chicken broth, and cornstarch for a shiny sauce. Add sriracha for spice or hoisin sauce for sweetness. You can try different flavors!
Put the cooked shrimp back in the pan. Let the flavors mix. Serve it over rice or noodles with stir-fried veggies for a full meal.
One-Pan Cajun Seasoned Duo
Craving a flavorful and hassle-free dinner? This One-Pan Cajun Cuisine Chicken and Shrimp recipe is perfect. It combines one-pan meals with Cajun spices for a delicious dish. It’s great for busy weeknights.
To start, gather your essential ingredients. You’ll need chicken breasts, raw shrimp, Cajun seasoning, bell peppers, and onions. Cook the chicken first to get a nice sear. Then add the shrimp. This way, both proteins cook well without crowding the pan.
- Season the chicken breasts with your Cajun seasoning blend.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. Add the diced bell peppers and onions to the skillet. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until they start to soften.
- Return the chicken to the pan, nestling it among the vegetables. Add the raw shrimp and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the shrimp are pink and opaque.
- Serve the One-Pan Cajun Cuisine Chicken and Shrimp immediately. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Pair it with fluffy white rice or crusty bread to soak up the Cajun-spiced sauce.
This one-pan meal recipe is easy to make and full of protein, vitamins, and Cajun flavors. Enjoy this satisfying and nutritious dinner any night of the week!
“The secret to a great Cajun dish is in the seasoning – a perfect blend of bold spices that wakes up your taste buds.”
Chicken and Shrimp Recipes for Busy Weeknights
Weeknights can be chaotic, and cooking dinner shouldn’t add to the stress. That’s why these easy dinner ideas with chicken and shrimp are perfect. They’re quick, delicious, and packed with protein. With a few smart prep tips, you can have a tasty meal ready in no time.
Time-Saving Prep Methods
Here are some ways to make cooking faster on weeknights:
- Use pre-cut veggies and pre-peeled shrimp to save time.
- Marinate chicken the night before for extra flavor.
- Make sauces and marinades ahead and keep them in the fridge.
- Pre-cook rice or pasta and reheat it when you’re ready.
Make-Ahead Options
Planning can be a game-changer on busy nights. Try these quick meal prep ideas:
- Make sheet pan meals with chicken, shrimp, and veggies for easy cooking.
- Use your slow cooker for stews or braises with chicken and shrimp.
- Make extra food that can turn into salads, wraps, or fried rice for later.
With a bit of planning and smart prep, you can enjoy tasty easy dinner ideas with chicken and shrimp, even on the busiest nights.
Asian-Inspired Fried Rice Combination
Make your weeknight dinner special with an Asian-inspired fried rice dish. It’s packed with chicken, shrimp, and fresh veggies. This meal is quick, easy, and full of international flavors that will take you on a taste journey.
To get the perfect texture, use cold, day-old rice. This makes the grains separate and soak up the sauces and seasonings. Start by cooking the chicken and shrimp separately. Then, mix them with the rice, scrambled eggs, and colorful veggies like peas, carrots, and green onions.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cooked, Cold Rice | 3 cups |
| Diced Chicken Breast | 1/2 pound |
| Cooked Shrimp | 150g (5.5 oz) |
| Frozen Peas | 100g (3/4 cup) |
| Sweetcorn | 75g (1/2 cup) |
| Onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Ginger, minced | 1/2 inch |
| Soy Sauce | 3 tablespoons |
| Olive Oil | 2 teaspoons |
| Sesame Oil | 1 tablespoon |
| Spring Onions, sliced | 2 |
| Red Chili, sliced | 1 medium |
First, cook the chicken and shrimp until they’re done. Heat olive oil and sesame oil in a large wok or skillet. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger, and sauté until they smell good. Then, add the cooked chicken, shrimp, and cold rice, along with the peas, sweetcorn, and soy sauce. Stir-fry until everything is mixed well.
Next, make a well in the pan and add two beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs and then mix them into the rice. Add more soy sauce or oyster sauce if needed. Top the international cuisines-inspired fried rice with spring onions and red chili for a colorful and tasty finish.
This stir-fry dish is great for a quick and tasty weeknight dinner. It’s a mix of proteins, veggies, and spices that will be a hit with your family. Enjoy it as a main dish or with other international cuisine dishes for a delicious meal.
Healthy Grilled Protein Options
Grilling is a great way to make healthy and tasty meals. It’s perfect for proteins like chicken and shrimp. You can make delicious and nutritious dishes that are perfect for a healthy dinner.
Marinades and Seasonings
To add bold flavors to your grilled proteins, start with tasty marinades and seasonings. For chicken, mix lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs like rosemary or thyme. For shrimp, try garlic, paprika, and lemon zest for a tasty kick.
Grilling Techniques
- Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, ensuring it’s cooked through and juicy.
- Grill shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side, using skewers to make them easy to handle.
- Brush the proteins with the marinade while grilling for extra flavor and moisture.
Pair your grilled chicken and shrimp with fresh, seasonal veggies and a light salad. This makes a complete, healthy dinner full of nutrients and flavor.
Mastering these grilling techniques can make your weeknight dinners better. Try different marinades and seasonings to find your family’s favorite flavors.
Mediterranean Style Chicken and Shrimp Skillet
Experience the lively tastes of the Mediterranean with this one-pan chicken and shrimp skillet. It mixes juicy shrimp, soft chicken, and fresh veggies and herbs. This creates a perfect blend of Mediterranean flavors.
Begin by cooking onions and bell peppers in a big skillet until they’re soft. Then, add the chicken. Cook until the chicken is done, then add the shrimp. Let them cook until they turn pink.
Next, add Mediterranean ingredients like fire-roasted tomatoes, Kalamata olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese. Finish with lemon juice and dried oregano for a true Mediterranean taste.
This dish is not just tasty but also flexible. You can serve it over couscous, rice, or orzo for a full meal. It’s gluten-free and low in carbs, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner.
FAQ
What are the benefits of combining chicken and shrimp in recipes?
Chicken and shrimp together offer a good mix of protein. They are lean and low in fat. This makes them great for quick weeknight meals or fancy dinner parties.
What are the essential kitchen tools and ingredients for these recipes?
You’ll need a skillet, grill pan, and instant-read thermometer. Don’t forget Cajun seasoning, garlic, olive oil, and butter. These ingredients make your meals tasty and healthy.
What is the Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp recipe?
This recipe is a copycat of Applebee’s. It has Cajun-seasoned chicken and blackened shrimp in garlic butter. You’ll need Cajun seasoning, brown sugar, salt, chicken, shrimp, olive oil, butter, and garlic.
Marinate for 2-24 hours. Cook shrimp for 1-3 minutes each side. Then, cook chicken for 12-18 minutes at 350°F. Serve with garlic mashed potatoes and sautéed veggies.
How do you prepare the marinade for the Honey Garlic Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry?
Mix a honey garlic sauce with soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Marinate chicken and shrimp for 15-30 minutes. You can add sriracha for spice or hoisin for sweetness.
What is the cooking temperature and timing for the Honey Garlic Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry?
Stir-fry over medium-high heat. Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes and chicken for 5-6 minutes. Serve over rice or noodles with veggies for a full meal.
What are some time-saving prep methods for busy weeknight chicken and shrimp recipes?
Use pre-cut veggies and pre-peeled shrimp to save time. Marinate chicken overnight for better flavor. Make sauces ahead and store them in the fridge.
Prepare rice or pasta early and reheat it. Try sheet pan meals or slow cooker recipes for easy cooking. Make extra for leftovers that can be used in salads or wraps.
How do you prepare the marinade and seasonings for the healthy grilled chicken and shrimp?
Marinate chicken in lemon juice, olive oil, and herbs. Season shrimp with garlic, paprika, and lemon zest. Brush with marinade while grilling for extra taste.
What are the key techniques for grilling chicken and shrimp?
Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, and shrimp for 2-3 minutes each side. Use skewers for shrimp. Serve with grilled veggies and a light salad for a healthy meal.
Source Links
- Applebee’s Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp Recipe – https://easychickenrecipes.com/applebees-bourbon-street-chicken-and-shrimp/
- Chicken and Shrimp Fried Rice – https://sprinkledwithbalance.com/chicken-shrimp-fried-rice/
- Chicken Shrimp Fried Rice – Skinny Spatula – https://skinnyspatula.com/chicken-shrimp-fried-rice/
- The Best Chicken Meal Prep (over 50g protein!) – https://beatthebudget.com/recipe/best-chicken-meal-prep/
- Delicious Chicken and Shrimp Recipes for Every Meal – canvassedrecipes – https://www.canvassedrecipes.com/chicken-and-shrimp-recipes/
- Applebees Bourbon Street Chicken and Shrimp – https://www.thefoodhussy.com/applebees-bourbon-street-chicken-and-shrimp/
- This Lighter Bourbon Chicken is made with tender chicken thighs smothered in a lightened up sticky bourbon sauce! This restaurant-worthy chicken dish can be made in less than 30 minutes! Packed with protein and perfect for those busy weekday nights! – https://thepounddropper.com/lighter-bourbon-chicken/
- Honey Garlic Chicken Stir Fry – https://www.dinneratthezoo.com/honey-garlic-chicken-stir-fry/
- Honey Garlic Shrimp Stir Fry – https://iwashyoudry.com/honey-garlic-shrimp-stir-fry/
- Chicken and Shrimp Recipes: The Perfect Protein Duo – https://recipeorbit.com/chicken-and-shrimp-recipes/
- Easy Chicken and Shrimp Recipes: Quick Cajun & Stir-Fry – https://quickwellrecipes.com/easy-chicken-and-shrimp-recipes/
- Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Alfredo – https://sweetandsavorymorsels.com/slow-cooker-cajun-chicken-alfredo/
- Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry – https://frommichigantothetable.com/chicken-and-shrimp-stir-fry/
- Easy Paella Recipe with Chicken and Shrimp – https://thebusybaker.ca/chicken-and-shrimp-paella/
- Easy Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice – Talking Meals – https://talkingmeals.com/easy-shrimp-and-chicken-fried-rice/
- Easy Chicken & Shrimp Fried Rice – https://thescattymum.com/easy-chicken-shrimp-fried-rice/
- Shrimp and Chicken Fried Rice (Thai-Style, One Pot) – https://twokooksinthekitchen.com/shrimp-and-chicken-fried-rice-thai-style-one-pot/
- Shrimp & Chicken Fried Rice (A Better Than Takeout Recipe!) – https://www.everylastbite.com/shrimp-and-chicken-fried-rice/
- Easy Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry – https://www.vanillabeancuisine.com/chicken-and-shrimp-stir-fry/
- Chicken And Shrimp Fried Rice – https://sailorbailey.com/blog/chicken-and-shrimp-fried-rice/
- Mediterranean Shrimp Skillet – https://www.familyfoodonthetable.com/mediterranean-shrimp-skillet/
- Mediterranean Shrimp – https://www.wellplated.com/mediterranean-shrimp/
- Sheet Pan Mediterranean Shrimp – https://www.wellplated.com/sheet-pan-mediterranean-shrimp/