Quick and Healthy 30-Minute Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

30-Minute Healthy Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

Imagine a dish that combines the best of chicken and shrimp, infused with vibrant vegetables, and coated in a savory sauce all ready in just 30 minutes. This Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry is a delicious and healthy recipe that packs lean protein, fresh produce, and rich flavors into one quick meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this stir fry is budget-friendly, easy to customize, and satisfies both seafood and chicken lovers. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or serve a simple family meal, this dish will surely become a favorite.

Description:

A quick, protein-packed stir fry made with chicken, shrimp, and fresh vegetables in a savory sauce.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: 350 per serving

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into thin strips
• 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium zucchini, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional garnish)
• Fresh chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prep Ingredients: Prepare all ingredients by slicing the vegetables, cutting the chicken, and peeling the shrimp.
2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet or wok, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes). Set aside.
3. Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque (about 2-3 minutes). Remove and set aside with the chicken.
4. Sauté Vegetables: Add more oil if needed, and toss in garlic, bell peppers, broccoli, and zucchini. Stir fry for 3-5 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
5. Combine & Sauce: Return chicken and shrimp to the skillet, pour in soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, stirring everything together. Let simmer for 1-2 minutes to coat well.
6. Serve: Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions, and serve hot over rice or noodles.

Notes

For added spice, include red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha in the sauce. You can swap out vegetables for your favorites, such as snap peas or carrots.

Nutrition Information

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 30g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 15g

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry Recipe

• Bursting with Flavor: A perfect balance of savory, sweet, and umami flavors makes this stir fry truly unforgettable.
• Fast and Simple: Ready in just 30 minutes, with minimal prep, making it ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Loaded with lean protein from chicken and shrimp, plus an array of fresh vegetables, it’s a well-rounded meal.
• Adaptable to Your Tastes: Easily swap ingredients, adjust the spice level, or customize the sauce to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients that feed the whole family, keeping both your health and wallet happy.
• A Visual Delight: With vibrant vegetables and a glossy sauce, this dish is as appealing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

Whether you’re craving a comforting Asian-inspired meal or a quick, healthy dinner, this chicken and shrimp stir fry delivers on every front, bringing flavor, convenience, and versatility together in one delicious dish.

Key Ingredients and Substitutions

• Chicken Breast: Lean protein that cooks quickly and is easy to cut into strips. Substitute with chicken thighs for a juicier texture.
• Shrimp: Adds a seafood flavor that pairs well with chicken. Use large shrimp (20-25 counts per pound) to avoid overcooking.
• Soy Sauce: Provides the savory base for the sauce. Substitute with tamari for gluten-free.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: Balances the salty soy sauce with a hint of sweetness. If unavailable, try brown sugar.
• Vegetables: Bell peppers, broccoli, and zucchini add crunch and color. Feel free to add other favorites like carrots, snow peas, or mushrooms.
• Sesame Oil: Adds a hint of nuttiness; a little goes a long way. Olive oil works if sesame oil isn’t available.

How to Make Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry (Step-by-Step)

Prepare Ingredients: Ensure the chicken is sliced thinly and the shrimp is peeled and deveined. Slice all vegetables evenly so they cook at the same rate. Prepping everything in advance will make the cooking process smooth.

Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season with salt and pepper. Stir fry until golden brown, about 5-6 minutes, then remove from the skillet and set aside.

Sauté the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until they turn pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can become rubbery. Set shrimp aside with the chicken.

Stir Fry the Vegetables: Add a bit more oil if necessary, then add garlic, bell peppers, broccoli, and zucchini to the skillet. Stir fry for 3-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften but remain slightly crisp.

Combine and Sauce: Return the chicken and shrimp to the skillet, and pour in the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and sesame oil. Stir everything together, letting it cook for another 1-2 minutes until all ingredients are well-coated in the sauce.

Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat and sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions. Serve this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe hot over rice, or noodles, or enjoy it as is.

The Secret to a Flavorful Stir Fry Sauce

The secret to a delicious chicken and shrimp stir fry is the homemade stir fry sauce. This sauce is a mix of savory, tangy, and sweet ingredients. Together, they create a balanced flavor profile.

The sauce’s heart is the sauce ingredients: low-sodium soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, brown sugar, cornstarch, and a bit of Sriracha. Soy sauce gives a savory base, while rice vinegar adds a subtle acidity. Brown sugar balances the flavors, and cornstarch thickens the sauce. Sriracha adds a gentle heat, enhancing the taste.

Whisking the sauce before adding it to the stir-fry ensures a flavorful dish. The stir fry sauce recipe has a high rating of 4.97 out of 5 from 86 ratings. It’s the secret to a great chicken and shrimp stir fry.

The stir-fry sauce takes just 10 minutes to make and serves 4. It’s great with 1 pound of protein and 6 cups of vegetables. For a vegan version, use vegetable broth and pure maple syrup. For gluten-free, replace soy sauce with gluten-free tamari or coconut aminos.

“The stir fry sauce is the secret to the most delicious chicken and shrimp stir fry I’ve ever had. It’s a game-changer!”

This stir-fry sauce is perfect for elevating stir-fried dishes. Its balance of savory, sweet, and heat is unmatched. Try it, and you’ll never use store-bought sauce again.

Expert Tips for Success of chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe

• Avoid Overcrowding: When cooking the chicken and shrimp, keep the pan from becoming overcrowded to ensure a nice, even browning. This allows the proteins to sear instead of steam.
• Timing is Key: Shrimp cooks very quickly, so be sure to remove it from heat as soon as it turns pink and opaque to keep it tender and juicy.
• Control the Sauce: Adjust the soy sauce and honey to suit your taste. For a sweeter sauce, add a bit more honey; for more saltiness, increase the soy sauce.
• Add Spice: If you love a bit of heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to elevate the flavor.

Stir-Frying Techniques for Vibrant Flavors

Mastering the right cooking techniques can take your chicken and shrimp stir fry to the next level. Here’s how to get the boldest, most vibrant flavors:

1. Cook the Proteins First: Start by cooking the chicken and shrimp separately in small batches over high heat until they’re lightly browned. This initial sear keeps the juices inside the proteins and enhances their flavor. Once cooked, remove them from the pan.
2. Keep the Pan Hot: After the proteins are removed, let the vegetables cook in the same hot pan, adding more oil if needed. Keeping the heat high allows the vegetables to sear quickly, creating caramelized edges while keeping the veggies crisp-tender.
3. Stagger the Cooking Stages: By cooking the proteins and vegetables separately and then combining them at the end, each ingredient cooks perfectly without losing its texture or flavor. This technique ensures the chicken and shrimp stay juicy and that the vegetables retain their color and bite.
4. Combine and Finish with Sauce: When the vegetables are ready, add the chicken and shrimp back into the pan. Pour in the sauce, stirring everything together until the flavors meld and the proteins are fully cooked.

Chef’s Tip: “The secret to an outstanding stir-fry is all in the technique. Get your pan searing hot, cook in small batches, and never overcrowd the ingredients. That’s the key to bringing out amazing flavors.” – Chef Gordon Ramsay

By following these stir-fry techniques, you’ll create a flavorful dish bursting with color, texture, and savory tastes that truly showcase the ingredients.

Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits of chicken and shrimp stir fry

The chicken and shrimp stir fry is a nutritious meal. It has lean proteins and fresh vegetables. These provide essential nutrients.

Shrimp and chicken breast are great sources of protein. A 3-ounce serving of shrimp weighs about 18 grams. Chicken breast has around 26 grams per 3-ounce portion. Both are low in calories, making the stir fry a healthy choice.

This stir fry also includes broccoli, bell peppers, and snap peas. These vegetables are full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They support overall health and well-being.

The stir-fry cooking method keeps nutrients in the ingredients. This dish is both tasty and nutritious. It’s a great addition to a healthy diet, offering a delicious and nourishing meal.

This stir fry is not just tasty but also healthy. It’s full of lean proteins, and fresh vegetables, and is low in calories. It’s perfect for a balanced diet and supports overall well-being.

Customizing Your Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry

One of the best parts about this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe is its versatility. It’s easy to adjust to your preferences, ingredients on hand, or dietary needs, making it a perfect base for creative cooking.

Veggie Variations

While the recipe calls for red bell pepper, shiitake mushrooms, and red onion, feel free to mix things up! Try using any of these vegetables to add your own twist:

• Snow peas
• Snap peas
• Green beans
• Bok choy
• Broccoli florets
• Carrots

These vegetables each bring unique textures and flavors, keeping the stir fry exciting and colorful.

Protein Alternatives

If you want to change up the proteins, this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe is flexible. Try swapping out the chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a richer flavor. For a different twist, you can also use:

• Beef strips
• Ground turkey
• Pork slices

Or, for a vegetarian option, replace the chicken and shrimp with tofu or tempeh, creating a veggie-packed, protein-rich stir fry.

Dietary Customizations

• Vegetarian: Leave out the chicken and shrimp, opting for tofu or tempeh instead for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
• Low-Carb: Skip traditional rice and serve the stir-fry over cauliflower rice. Alternatively, use zucchini noodles instead of pasta for a low-carb option.
• Spicy Twist: Add some heat by mixing red pepper flakes, sriracha, or chopped fresh chili into the sauce.

This chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe is an ideal starting point to explore different flavor combinations and textures, allowing you to create a stir fry that’s just right for you. Enjoy experimenting with different vegetables, proteins, and spices to make this dish your own!

Meal Prep, Storage, and Reheating Tips

This chicken and shrimp stir fry is ideal for meal prep, making weeknight dinners quicker and easier. Prepare ingredients in advance by chopping the proteins and vegetables, and even making the sauce. When ready to serve, simply cook everything together for a fresh, flavorful meal in minutes.

For leftovers, store the stir fry in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it moist, add a small splash of water when reheating. You can warm it up in the microwave or a skillet on the stovetop, stirring occasionally until hot and evenly coated in the sauce.

For longer storage, freeze the stir fry in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.

Quick Summary

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Add a bit of water to prevent dryness, then heat in a skillet over medium heat or microwave in short intervals until warmed through.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 2-3 months, thawing in the refrigerator before reheating.

With this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe, meal prep, and proper storage ensure you’ll have delicious, ready-made meals throughout the week. As they say, “Leftovers aren’t just for lunch they’re a fresh opportunity for a tasty meal without the extra work.”

Serving Suggestions

• Rice: Serve over steamed jasmine or brown rice for a complete meal.
• Noodles: This stir fry pairs well with lo mein, soba noodles, or even spaghetti.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette is a great complement.
• Bread: Serve with garlic bread or naan for a tasty side.

Related Recipes

• Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo: For a creamy, indulgent pasta option, try this rich Alfredo made with tender chicken and shrimp.
• Ground Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry: for another stir-fry option.
• Quick Chicken Stir Fry with Cabbage: for a stir-fry variation with cabbage.

Conclusion

In just 30 minutes, you can have this delicious and nutritious Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry on the table. Packed with lean protein, colorful vegetables, and a balanced, savory sauce, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or even special occasions. Its flexibility allows for easy ingredient swaps and adjustments, so you can make it your own every time. Try this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe for a flavorful,

satisfying meal that’s sure to become a regular in your dinner rotation!

FAQs

What makes this chicken and shrimp stir fry a crowd-pleasing dish?

This dish is loved by many due to its vibrant flavors and quick preparation. It combines tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and fresh veggies to create a colorful, flavorful meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.

What are the key ingredients needed for a flavorful stir fry?

For the best chicken and shrimp stir fry, use chicken breasts, large shrimp, and fresh veggies like red bell pepper, shiitake mushrooms, red onion, and baby spinach. The sauce, made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and Sriracha, ties all the flavors together.

How do you ensure the chicken and shrimp are cooked to perfection?

To achieve juicy, well-cooked chicken and shrimp, coat the chicken with cornstarch for a nice sear. Add the shrimp towards the end, as it cooks quickly and can become tough if overcooked.

What are the key techniques for developing bold, vibrant flavors in the stir fry?

Start by searing the chicken until lightly browned, then set it aside. Sauté the veggies in a hot pan without overcrowding to keep them crisp and enhance their flavor with caramelized edges.

What makes the stir fry sauce so flavorful?

The homemade sauce is a flavor powerhouse, made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, water, brown sugar, cornstarch, and Sriracha. Soy sauce provides a savory base, rice vinegar adds acidity, brown sugar balances sweetness, and cornstarch thickens the sauce for a perfect coating.

How can I customize this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe?

This chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe is very adaptable. Swap in different veggies like snow peas, snap peas, green beans, or bok choy. You can also use chicken thighs instead of breasts, or make it vegetarian by omitting the proteins.

Can I use frozen shrimp for this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe?

Yes, just make sure to thaw and pat dry the shrimp before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Is this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce.

How can I prevent my shrimp from getting rubbery?

Since shrimp cooks quickly, remove it from heat as soon as it turns pink and opaque to keep it tender.

Can I make this chicken and shrimp stir fry recipe spicy?

Absolutely! Add red pepper flakes or extra Sriracha to the sauce for a spicier version.

What can I use if I don’t have rice vinegar?

Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar are great substitutes for rice vinegar in this dish.