5 Easy Chicken and Shrimp Recipes for Busy Weeknights

The combination of chicken and shrimp brings a unique magic to any dish. Both ingredients bring unique flavors and textures to the table, and when they’re paired together, the possibilities are endless. Whether you’re craving a cozy pasta, a flavorful stir-fry, or a comforting soup, these chicken and shrimp recipes offer something for everyone. Ideal for quick weeknight dinners, entertaining guests, or simply trying something new, each of these dishes combines convenience with delicious results.

In this article, I’ll guide you through 5 easy chicken and shrimp recipes that are not only quick to make but also packed with flavor. From chicken and shrimp Alfredo to stir-fries and tacos, these recipes are perfect for those who want a hearty, protein-packed meal in minimal time. Let’s dive in!

Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo

Description

This Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe combines tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and a velvety Alfredo sauce over pasta, creating the ultimate comfort food experience. Perfect for those craving rich, satisfying chicken and shrimp recipes, this dish delivers flavor and coziness in every bite.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 650 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 8 oz fettuccine pasta, cooked and drained

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet. Season chicken with salt and pepper and cook until browned.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook until fragrant. Pour in cream and Parmesan, stirring until the sauce thickens.
4. Return chicken and shrimp to the skillet, add cooked pasta, and toss to coat.

Notes

Serve with extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of parsley for garnish.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 650 | Protein: 40g | Carbohydrates: 45g | Fat: 35g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, creamy flavor perfect for pasta lovers
• Quick to prepare in under 30 minutes
• Restaurant-quality dish at home

Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Skillet

Description

Turn up the heat with this Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Skillet Recipe a quick, spicy dish bursting with bold Cajun flavors, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. This chicken and shrimp recipe is loaded with vibrant spices and is sure to satisfy anyone who loves a bit of zest in their meal!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 320 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 chicken breast, sliced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced

Instructions

1. Season chicken and shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
2. Warm oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the chicken, and cook until it turns golden brown. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
3. Using the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until they become pink and opaque, then remove and set aside.
4. Sauté bell pepper and onion, then add chicken and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to combine.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 320 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 8g | Fat: 15g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick, one-pan meal with minimal cleanup
• Perfect for spice lovers
• Simple ingredients, big flavor

Garlic Butter Chicken and Shrimp

Description

This Garlic Butter Chicken and Shrimp Recipe is a buttery, garlicky masterpiece, delivering incredible flavor in every bite. Perfectly seared chicken and tender shrimp come together in a rich garlic butter sauce, making it an ideal choice for those seeking easy yet delicious chicken and shrimp recipes.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 300 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 chicken breast, sliced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Heat butter in a pan and add chicken. Cook until golden brown, then set aside.
2. Place the shrimp in the pan and sauté until they turn pink and are fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Toss garlic with chicken and shrimp, then cook for another minute.
4. Sprinkle with parsley and serve.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 300 | Carbohydrates: 5g | Protein: 25g | Fat: 20g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich garlic and butter flavors
• Quick to prepare in under 20 minutes
• Great with pasta, rice, or salad

Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry

Description

This Quick Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry Recipe brings together tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. Perfect for busy nights, this chicken and shrimp recipe is both healthy and full of flavor, ready to satisfy in no time!

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 250 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 chicken breast, sliced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a wok or skillet. Add chicken and cook until browned.
2. Add shrimp and vegetables, and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes.
3. Add soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil to the pan, stirring well to coat all ingredients evenly. Toss until coated.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 250 | Protein: 30g | Carbohydrates: 10g | Fat: 10g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick, healthy, and packed with veggies
• Perfect for busy weeknights
• Easy to customize with different vegetables

Lemon Herb Chicken and Shrimp

Description

This Lemon Herb Chicken and Shrimp Recipe is light, zesty, and bursting with fresh citrus flavor, perfect for those who enjoy a refreshing twist. With bright lemon and aromatic herbs, this chicken and shrimp recipe is a delightful option for a healthy, flavorful meal.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 290 kcal

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 chicken breast, sliced
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat, add the chicken, and cook until it reaches a golden-brown color. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and are just cooked through.
3. Toss chicken and shrimp with lemon juice and parsley. Serve immediately.

Nutrition Information

Calories: 290 | Protein: 28g | Carbohydrates: 4g | Fat: 12g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and light with a citrusy kick
• Ideal for pairing with rice or salad
• Quick and easy for busy weeknights

Why You’ll Love These Chicken and Shrimp Recipes

1. Quick and Easy: Each recipe can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknights.
2. Variety of Flavors: From creamy Alfredo to spicy Cajun, these recipes offer a flavor for every palate.
3. Healthy and Protein-Packed: Combining chicken and shrimp provides a balanced, high-protein meal.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Chicken Breast: Easily replaced with boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
• Shrimp: Frozen shrimp works well; just thaw before cooking.
• Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, and cilantro add depth, but dried herbs are also suitable.

How to Make Chicken and Shrimp Recipes (Step-by-Step)

Each recipe follows a straightforward cooking process, whether it’s stir-frying, simmering in sauce, or grilling.

1. Preparation: Dice chicken and season well.
2. Cooking: Begin with chicken, as it typically takes longer to cook than shrimp.
3. Adding Shrimp: Shrimp should be added near the end to prevent overcooking.

Expert Tips for Success

1. Don’t Overcook Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs and spices significantly boost flavor.
3. Control the Heat: Adjust spice levels based on your preference.

Variations and Customizations

1. Low-Carb: Serve with cauliflower rice or zoodles instead of pasta.
2. Spicier: Add chili flakes or jalapeños for extra heat.
3. Creamier: For extra richness, add more heavy cream or cheese.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Related Recipes

If you loved these chicken and shrimp recipes, you might also enjoy:

• Quick and Healthy 30-Minute Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe: for a quick stir-fry option.
• Shrimp Chicken Alfredo: The Ultimate Creamy Pasta Dish: for a creamy pasta recipe idea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp?
A: Yes, frozen shrimp work well. Just make sure to thaw them fully and pat them dry before cooking.

Q: How can I adjust the spice level in Cajun recipes?
A: You can control the heat by reducing the amount of Cajun seasoning or choosing a milder blend.

Q: Can I make these recipes dairy-free?
A: Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast in place of Parmesan.