Chicken and Shrimp Recipe: High-Protein & Ready in 30 Minutes

There’s something undeniably delicious about the combination of juicy, tender chicken and succulent, flavorful shrimp. This high-protein chicken and shrimp recipe is the perfect blend of land and sea, bringing together two powerhouse proteins in a meal that’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and ready in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re a home cook looking for a quick, high-protein weeknight dinner or want to impress guests with a restaurant-quality meal, this dish has you covered. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—pair it with roasted vegetables, creamy pasta, or a fresh salad for a meal that fits any occasion.

Want more quick and high-protein meals? Check out our Chicken Cheesesteak Recipe for another flavor-packed favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Shrimp Recipe

This isn’t just any chicken and shrimp recipe—it’s designed to be flavorful, fast, and foolproof. Here’s why it will become your go-to meal:

✔ Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, with minimal prep.
✔ High-Protein, Low-Carb Option – Perfect for a balanced diet.
✔ Restaurant-Quality at Home – Get a rich, bold sear on both proteins.
✔ Customizable Flavors – Choose between creamy garlic, lemon butter, or Cajun spice.
✔ Pairs Well with Many Sides – Works with pasta, vegetables, or fresh salads.

This dish is ideal for those who love bold flavors and simple cooking techniques. If you’re looking for another hearty meal, try our Easy Smothered Potatoes Recipe for the perfect side dish!

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken & Shrimp:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 12 large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tsp paprika
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Sauce (Choose One Option):

• Creamy Garlic Sauce: ¼ cup heavy cream, ¼ cup chicken broth, 1 tbsp Parmesan cheese
• Lemon Butter Sauce: ¼ cup chicken broth, 2 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp butter
• Spicy Cajun Sauce: ¼ cup chicken broth, 1 tbsp hot sauce, ½ tsp Cajun seasoning

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

• Pat the chicken and shrimp dry with a paper towel—this helps them develop a golden-brown crust when cooking.
• Season both proteins with paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to enhance flavor.
• Mince the garlic and set aside your chosen sauce ingredients for easy access.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

• Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
• Add the chicken in a single layer and sear for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway, until the outside is golden brown.
• Check doneness: The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), as per the USDA Food Safety Guide.
• Remove the chicken from the pan and let it rest while you cook the shrimp.
  

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

• In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
• Add the shrimp in a single layer and cook for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque.
• Avoid overcooking: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if left on the heat too long. Remove them from the pan as soon as they are done.

Step 4: Make the Sauce (Optional but Recommended)

• Add the minced garlic to the same pan and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Deglaze the pan by pouring in chicken broth and scraping up any flavorful bits from the bottom.
• Add your chosen sauce ingredients, whether it’s a creamy garlic sauce, a zesty lemon butter, or a spicy Cajun mix.
• Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
• Return the chicken and shrimp to the pan, stirring everything together to coat in the sauce.

Cooking Variations: Different Ways to Prepare Chicken and Shrimp

Looking to switch things up? Try these alternative cooking methods:

• Grilled: Marinate the chicken and shrimp, then cook over medium-high heat for a smoky, charred flavor.
• Air-Fried: Lightly coat with oil and seasonings, then air fry at 375°F (190°C) for a crispy texture with less oil.
• Baked: Roast in the oven at 400°F (204°C) for a hands-off, juicy result—just add the shrimp in the last few minutes to prevent overcooking.

Each method adds a unique twist to this high-protein chicken and shrimp recipe, so choose your favorite and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	320
Protein	35g
Fat	12g
Carbs	5g

Ketty’s Expert Tips for Perfect Chicken & Shrimp

1. The “Two-Step” Searing Method for Maximum Flavor

Many recipes suggest cooking the chicken first, then the shrimp, but the real secret to achieving a deep, rich flavor is the two-step searing method used by professional chefs.

How It Works:

1. Sear the chicken in a hot pan with oil until golden brown.
2. Remove it before it’s fully cooked and let it rest.
3. Sear the shrimp in the same pan, absorbing the leftover flavors from the chicken.
4. Return the chicken to the pan with your sauce or seasonings and finish cooking.

This method ensures both proteins develop a beautiful crust while preventing overcooking. It also enhances flavor by layering the cooking process rather than rushing everything together.

2. Dry Brine Your Chicken and Shrimp for Better Texture

A common complaint in online reviews is that chicken dries out and shrimp becomes rubbery. The best way to fix this is by dry brining your proteins before cooking.

How to Dry Brine:

• For chicken: Sprinkle salt and your favorite spices on the chicken at least 30 minutes before cooking. This draws out moisture, allowing it to reabsorb, making the meat juicier and more flavorful.
• For shrimp: Toss shrimp with a little salt and baking soda (¼ teaspoon per pound) and let it sit for 15 minutes. The baking soda keeps the shrimp firm and bouncy, like restaurant-quality seafood.

This small step elevates your dish significantly and is rarely mentioned in standard recipes.

3. Finish with a Deglaze for a Restaurant-Quality Sauce

One of the biggest mistakes home cooks make is missing out on the rich, flavorful bits left in the pan after cooking. Professional chefs always deglaze the pan to create a sauce that ties everything together.

How to Deglaze Like a Pro:

1. After cooking the chicken and shrimp, leave the brown bits in the pan.
2. Pour in ¼ cup of broth, white wine, or lemon juice, scraping the bottom to loosen the bits.
3. Let it simmer for 1–2 minutes, then add butter or cream for a rich sauce.
4. Toss everything back in the pan, coating the chicken and shrimp in the flavorful reduction.

This step deepens the flavor and adds a glossy finish to the dish, making it taste like it came from a high-end restaurant.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Why does my chicken and shrimp look pale and soggy instead of golden and crispy?

You’re overcrowding the pan, which traps moisture and causes steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches so each piece has enough space to develop a golden-brown crust. Start with the chicken, set it aside, then cook the shrimp separately for the best texture.

Why do my shrimp turn rubbery and dry?

You’re overcooking them. Shrimp only need 1 to 2 minutes per side—as soon as they turn pink and curl slightly, they’re done. Remove them from the heat immediately because they will continue cooking from the residual heat.

Why does my dish taste bland?

You’re not using enough seasoning. Chicken and shrimp have mild flavors, so they need a good balance of salt, pepper, and spices. Marinate them for at least 30 minutes with olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice to enhance the flavors before cooking.

Can I cook the chicken and shrimp together at the same time?

No, because chicken takes longer to cook. If you add both to the pan at once, the shrimp will overcook before the chicken is done. Cook the chicken first, remove it, and then quickly cook the shrimp separately.

Why doesn’t my chicken and shrimp have a crispy golden crust?

You’re using the wrong pan or not heating it properly. A cast iron or stainless steel skillet works best for getting a rich sear. Also, let the pan heat up fully before adding your ingredients to lock in flavor and create the perfect crust.

By avoiding these mistakes, you’ll cook a perfectly juicy and flavorful chicken and shrimp dish every time.

Best Sides for This Chicken and Shrimp Recipe

This recipe pairs well with a variety of side dishes, depending on your preferences:

• Pasta: Garlic butter pasta, creamy Alfredo, or linguine.
• Vegetables: Roasted asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Low-Carb Options: Cauliflower rice or a fresh salad.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

How to Store Leftovers

• Refrigerate: Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.

How to Reheat

• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium heat with a splash of broth.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring between each.

FAQS About Chicken and Shrimp

Try This Chicken and Shrimp Recipe Tonight!

This Chicken and Shrimp Recipe is the perfect blend of flavor, protein, and versatility. Whether you serve it over vegetables, pasta, or low-carb sides, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

If you love quick, restaurant-quality meals, save this recipe and try it tonight! Let us know how it turned out in the comments!

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