Discover the perfect balance of flavors and textures with this Shrimp and Chicken Stir-Fry recipe. Packed with protein, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this dish is quick to prepare and ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a delicious and wholesome meal. Learn how to combine shrimp, chicken, and fresh broccoli into a satisfying stir-fry that will delight your taste buds.
Ingredients
Gather these ingredients to prepare your Shrimp and Chicken Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 head of broccoli, cut into florets
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Follow these steps to create a delicious Shrimp and Chicken Stir-Fry:
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by prepping all your ingredients. Peel and devein the shrimp, cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces, and cut the broccoli into florets.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, and dried Italian herbs. Cook until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Stir-Fry Broccoli: Add more olive oil to the skillet if necessary. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Combine and Serve: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet with the broccoli. Toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Adjust seasoning if needed.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot over rice, cauliflower rice for a low-carb option, or noodles.
Cook’s Notes
- Cooking Sequence: Cook chicken first, then shrimp, and finally stir-fry the broccoli to ensure each component cooks evenly.
- Vegetable Variations: Substitute broccoli with other vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for variety.
- Sauce Options: Add a splash of soy sauce, teriyaki sauce, or a homemade stir-fry sauce for additional flavor.
Variations
Explore different flavors and ingredient swaps for your Shrimp and Chicken Stir-Fry:
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha for a spicy version.
- Asian Fusion: Use soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil for an Asian-inspired twist.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the chicken and shrimp, and opt for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian stir-fry.
Keto Version
For a keto-friendly option, use olive oil or avocado oil for cooking. Serve over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice to keep it low in carbs.
Low Carb Version
To reduce carbs, minimize the amount of broccoli or substitute with lower carb vegetables like spinach or zucchini. Use a sugar-free teriyaki or soy sauce alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe? A: Yes, you can use thawed frozen shrimp. Make sure to pat them dry with paper towels before cooking to remove excess moisture.
Q: How do I prevent overcooking the shrimp? A: Shrimp cook quickly, so watch closely and remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque to avoid toughness.
Q: Can I make this stir-fry ahead of time? A: While best served fresh, you can prepare the ingredients ahead of time and cook quickly when ready to eat for convenience.
Q: What should I serve with Shrimp and Chicken Stir-Fry? A: Serve over rice, noodles, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.
Shrimp and Chicken Stir-Fry offers a delicious way to enjoy a balanced meal packed with protein and vegetables. With its quick cooking time and versatile flavor profile, it’s a perfect choice for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite.