Quick and Easy Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe
Imagine a busy weeknight with a hungry family and little time. Your answer? A tasty chicken and shrimp stir fry. It turns simple ingredients into a fantastic meal in just 30 minutes.
This easy recipe is more than a fast dinner. It’s a lifesaver in the kitchen. With only 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, you’ll make a dish that rivals restaurants. It’s full of flavor and good for you.
Think of tender chicken and juicy shrimp with crisp veggies, all in a yummy homemade sauce. Each serving has 19 grams of protein. It’s great for anyone who wants a healthy, quick dinner.
Are you a busy pro, a parent with lots to do, or someone who loves good food but doesn’t have hours to cook? This chicken and shrimp stir fry is your ideal meal.
Table of Contents
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Stir Fry
Creating amazing chicken and shrimp dishes begins with picking top-notch ingredients. The success of your stir fry depends on using fresh, tasty parts that blend well together.
Protein Powerhouses
For outstanding chicken and shrimp dishes, focus on the best proteins. Choose:
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast (lean and easy to slice)
- Fresh, peeled, and deveined shrimp
- Preferably wild-caught or responsibly sourced seafood
Vibrant Vegetable Selections
A colorful mix of vegetables makes your stir fry truly special. Consider these healthy options:
- Bell peppers (red, yellow, green)
- Crisp broccoli florets
- Snap peas
- Sliced onions
- Julienned carrots
| Ingredient | Quantity per Serving | Nutritional Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken Breast | 4 oz | 26g Protein |
| Shrimp | 3 oz | Low Calorie Protein |
| Mixed Vegetables | 1 cup | Rich in Vitamins |
Pro tip: Choose vegetables with varying textures and colors to create a visually appealing and nutritionally balanced stir fry.
Creating the Signature Stir Fry Sauce
Making the perfect stir fry sauce turns a simple dish into a masterpiece. Your sauce is the key that makes the whole dish shine. It mixes different flavors into a perfect blend.
Here are the key ingredients for a stir fry sauce you’ll love:
- 6 tablespoons soy sauce
- 6 tablespoons water
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 2 teaspoons sesame oil
- 1.5 teaspoons rice vinegar
- 1.5 teaspoons chili garlic sauce
Pro tip: Unlike traditional chicken and shrimp alfredo, this stir fry sauce delivers a perfect balance of umami, sweetness, and heat.
The right sauce can turn a simple meal into a restaurant-quality experience!
Cornstarch is key in your sauce. It thickens the sauce so it sticks to your chicken and shrimp. Mix your cornstarch slurry with a 1:2 ratio of cornstarch to cold water for the best results.
You can keep this sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks in the fridge. For those who love meal prep, freeze the sauce in ice cube trays. This makes future cooking easy.
Preparation and Kitchen Equipment
Starting a stir fry right means having the right tools and a tidy kitchen. Success in making tasty chicken and shrimp dishes comes from good prep and organization.
Essential Tools for Stir Frying
To make great chicken and shrimp recipes, you need some important kitchen tools:
- Large wok or skillet (12-inch recommended)
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spatula or tongs
Mastering Mise en Place
Mise en place, or “everything in its place,” is key for easy cooking. Get all ingredients ready before cooking to make stir frying smooth.
- Wash and chop vegetables
- Cut chicken into uniform pieces
- Peel and devein shrimp
- Measure sauce ingredients
- Arrange ingredients within easy reach
By following these steps, you’ll make your kitchen work better. This makes cooking easy chicken and shrimp recipes a snap.
Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry Step-by-Step
Making a great chicken and shrimp stir fry needs focus and skill. You’ll want to cook each protein just right. This keeps their flavor and texture perfect.
Begin by cutting 1/2 lb of Good Ranchers chicken into small pieces. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a big wok or skillet over medium-high. Cook the chicken for 4-5 minutes until it’s golden and fully cooked. Then, take it out and set it aside.
- Prepare chicken pieces
- Cook chicken for 4-5 minutes
- Remove chicken from pan
Now, it’s time for the shrimp. Add another tablespoon of oil to the pan. Stir-fry the 1/2 lb of shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and curl a bit. This quick cooking keeps them tender.
Add the 12 oz bag of pre-mixed stir-fry vegetables to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until they’re tender but still crisp. This keeps their nutrients and adds color to your dish.
“The key to a perfect stir fry is timing and temperature control.” – Professional Chef
Put the cooked chicken and shrimp back in the pan. Pour your sauce mixture over them, making sure everything is coated. Stir gently to mix and heat for 1-2 minutes more.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken | 1/2 lb | 4-5 minutes |
| Shrimp | 1/2 lb | 2-3 minutes |
| Vegetables | 12 oz | 3-4 minutes |
Serve your chicken and shrimp stir fry hot over 2 cups of jasmine rice. Top it with sliced green onions for extra flavor.
Mastering the Cooking Technique
Stir-frying chicken and shrimp dishes needs skill and precision. To make meals like restaurants, you must understand heat control and how to cook proteins. Controlling temperature and timing can turn a simple meal into a special dish.
To get the perfect stir-fry, you must know how proteins react to heat. Chicken and shrimp cook differently, so you need to pay close attention.
Heat Management Strategies
Keeping your cooking temperature right is key for chicken and shrimp dishes. Here are some tips to help you manage heat:
- Use medium-high heat to prevent mushiness
- Maintain constant pan temperature
- Preheat your pan or wok before adding ingredients
- Watch for subtle color changes in proteins
Protein Cooking Tips
Each protein needs a special way to cook for the best texture and taste:
- Chicken Preparation:
- Cut into uniform pieces (about ½ inch thick)
- Marinate for added tenderness
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F
- Shrimp Cooking:
- Avoid overcooking to prevent tough texture
- Cook until shrimp turn pink and curl slightly
- Total cooking time should not exceed 2-3 minutes
Pro tip: For restaurant-quality chicken and shrimp dishes, try the velveting technique. This method involves marinating proteins in a mix of cornstarch, liquid, and oil. It makes the proteins incredibly tender.
Customizing Your Stir Fry Experience
Creating tasty chicken and shrimp recipes is all about being creative in the kitchen. Your stir fry can be tailored to your liking. With a few tweaks, you can make this classic dish your own, fitting your taste and dietary needs.
Here are some fun ways to make your easy chicken and shrimp recipes your own:
- Vegetable Variations: Try different veggies to change up the taste
- Green beans for a crunchy bite
- Cauliflower for a low-carb option
- Asparagus for a fancy touch
- Sauce Modifications: Change the flavor to match your mood
- More chili sauce for spice
- More honey for sweetness
- Ginger for a deeper flavor
Want to take your stir fry to the next level? Try new herb mixes or spice blends. A bit of smoked paprika or some fresh cilantro can change the whole taste.
Pro tip: Always prep your ingredients before cooking for a smooth stir fry experience!
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Make your chicken and shrimp alfredo stir fry even better with these serving tips. They’ll turn your meal into something truly special!
Base Options
Your stir fry can be served with many bases. Here are some tasty choices:
- White rice (classic and comforting)
- Brown rice (nutritious whole grain option)
- Cauliflower rice (low-carb alternative)
- Zucchini noodles (light and fresh)
- Lo mein noodles (traditional Asian-style)
Garnish Choices
Take your chicken and shrimp alfredo stir fry to the next level with these garnishes:
- Toasted sesame seeds
- Thinly sliced scallions
- Fresh cilantro
- Crushed red pepper flakes
- Chopped cashews
| Base Option | Calories | Preparation Time |
|---|---|---|
| White Rice | 204 | 15-20 minutes |
| Cauliflower Rice | 25 | 10 minutes |
| Zucchini Noodles | 33 | 5-10 minutes |
Pro tip: Try different bases and garnishes to make your chicken and shrimp alfredo stir fry unique. Each mix offers new flavors and textures that can change your meal completely!
Storage and Leftover Tips
Keeping your chicken and shrimp stir fry fresh is simple. Storing it right lets you enjoy it for days.
For the best taste, put leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Chicken and shrimp stay good for three days in the fridge. Here are some storage tips:
- Use shallow, clear containers for easy identification
- Cool the stir fry completely before refrigerating
- Separate sauce from proteins if possible to maintain texture
Pro tip: Single-serve containers make reheating a breeze and help prevent waste.
Ready to reheat? Follow these steps:
- Use medium heat to prevent overcooking
- Add a splash of chicken stock to restore moisture
- Stir gently to distribute heat evenly
- Heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F
“Meal prep magic happens when you know how to store and reheat your favorite dishes!” – Professional Home Chef
Freezing is also a good option. Store it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Remove air to avoid freezer burn.
Remember, the secret to great leftovers is storing and reheating right. Enjoy your stir fry just as much the second time!
Conclusion
Your journey through easy chicken and shrimp recipes shows how simple meals can change your weeknights. With just 30 minutes of prep, you’ve found a dish packed with 42 grams of protein. It’s great for those who are active or trying to stay fit.
This stir fry recipe is easy to customize, making it perfect for any meal. Whether it’s for one or many, these recipes bring flavor and flexibility. With about 370 calories per serving, they’re also good for those watching their diet.
Cooking is all about exploring. Every time you make this stir fry, you’ll get better and try new things. You’ll make a dish that’s truly yours, showing off your cooking skills.
Enjoy cooking, share your meals with loved ones, and keep trying new recipes. Quick, tasty dishes can feed both your body and soul.
FAQ
How long does it take to make a chicken and shrimp stir fry?
Making a chicken and shrimp stir fry takes about 20-25 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick dinner on a busy weeknight. Just prep all your ingredients before you start cooking.
Can I substitute the proteins in this recipe?
Yes, you can! Swap chicken and shrimp with tofu, beef, or just one protein. This dish is very versatile.
What are the best vegetables to use in a chicken and shrimp stir fry?
Choose quick-cooking veggies like bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, and onions. They should stay crunchy for a fresh meal.
How can I make the stir fry sauce less sweet or spicier?
To make the sauce less sweet, use less honey. For more heat, add chili sauce, red pepper flakes, or sriracha. Homemade sauce is easy to customize.
What’s the best way to prevent overcooking shrimp in a stir fry?
Shrimp cook fast, in 2-3 minutes. Add them late and remove from heat when they’re pink and curled. This prevents toughness.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prep ingredients before cooking. Stir-frying itself takes just minutes. It’s a convenient meal option.
What are good side dishes to serve with chicken and shrimp stir fry?
Serve with steamed white rice, brown rice, or noodles. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles. Add sesame seeds or scallions for extra flavor.
How long can I store leftover chicken and shrimp stir fry?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for 1-2 days. Reheat quickly and at a low temperature to keep the shrimp and chicken moist.
Is chicken and shrimp stir fry a healthy meal?
Yes! It’s high in protein from chicken and shrimp, and full of nutrients from veggies. It’s a balanced meal with fewer calories than many restaurant dishes.
Can this recipe be made gluten-free?
Certainly! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure all sauce ingredients are gluten-free. The recipe can be adapted for dietary restrictions without losing flavor.