Creamy Garlic Chicken and Shrimp Recipe – A One-Pan Delight!

There’s something magical about a one-pan recipe, isn’t there? Especially when it combines two protein favorites—chicken and shrimp. It’s a dish that feels fancy enough for a special dinner but is simple and quick enough for a busy weeknight. I still remember the first time I made this recipe; it was a spur-of-the-moment decision when I had guests coming over unexpectedly. With just a few pantry staples, I whipped up this creamy garlic chicken and shrimp dish, and it became an instant hit. The rich, garlicky sauce paired perfectly with the tender chicken and juicy shrimp. From that day on, it’s been a go-to recipe in my household.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

This creamy garlic chicken and shrimp recipe has so much to love! It’s a hearty, comforting meal that feels indulgent without requiring hours in the kitchen. Here are some reasons why it’s a favorite in my home:

• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess, fewer dishes, and all the flavor.
• Rich and Flavorful: The creamy garlic sauce is packed with robust flavors, complementing the chicken and shrimp beautifully.
• Customizable: You can easily adapt this dish to suit dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
• Impressive Yet Simple: It’s elegant enough for guests but requires no fancy cooking techniques.

Equipment Needed

Here’s a list of tools you’ll need to make this recipe seamlessly:

• A large skillet or frying pan (preferably non-stick or stainless steel)
• Tongs for handling chicken and shrimp
• A sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• A whisk for the creamy sauce
• A spatula for stirring

Ingredients

For this recipe, you’ll need:

Protein:

• Chicken breasts: 2 large, sliced thinly
• Shrimp: ¾ pound, peeled and deveined

Sauce:

• Garlic: 5 cloves, minced (fresh garlic works best for a robust flavor)
• Butter: 2 tablespoons
• Chicken broth: ½ cup
• Heavy cream: 1 cup
• Parmesan cheese: ½ cup, freshly grated
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons

Seasonings:

• Paprika: ½ teaspoon
• Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and pepper: To taste

Optional Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Substitution Tips:

• Heavy Cream: Swap with coconut cream for a dairy-free option.
• Shrimp: Use scallops or cubed salmon as an alternative.
• Chicken Broth: Vegetable broth works well in a pinch.

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by slicing the chicken breasts thinly and seasoning them with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. Pat the shrimp dry and season lightly with salt and pepper. Mince the garlic and set it aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken slices and cook for 4-5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Sear the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and sear the shrimp for 1-2 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and melt the butter in the skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Cream and Cheese

Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, whisking until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Return the chicken and shrimp to the skillet, tossing them gently to coat in the creamy garlic sauce. Let everything simmer together for 2 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Tips

• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid a rubbery texture.
• Use Fresh Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese doesn’t melt as smoothly and can affect the sauce’s consistency.
• Deglaze for Flavor: Scraping the browned bits while adding chicken broth enhances the sauce’s depth.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the creamy texture.

Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Serve with zoodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta or rice.
• Vegetarian Version: Swap the chicken and shrimp for sautéed mushrooms and tofu.
• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red chili flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the chicken broth and Parmesan are certified gluten-free.

Serving Ideas

This creamy garlic chicken and shrimp dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides:

• Pasta: Linguine or fettuccine are classic choices.
• Rice: Steamed jasmine or brown rice soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Bread: Serve with crusty bread or garlic knots for dipping.
• Vegetables: Roasted broccoli, asparagus, or a simple side salad add a fresh touch.

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp? A: Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and pat them dry before cooking to avoid excess water.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time? A: The sauce is best fresh, but you can prep the chicken and shrimp in advance. Store them separately and reheat in the sauce when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use milk instead of cream? A: Whole milk can work, but the sauce won’t be as rich. Consider adding a teaspoon of cornstarch to help thicken it.

Q: What if my sauce is too thick? A: Simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 450 per serving
• Protein: 35g
• Carbohydrates: 5g
• Fat: 30g
• Sodium: 680mg

Concluding Thoughts

This creamy garlic chicken and shrimp recipe is the ultimate comfort food, bringing restaurant-quality flavors to your kitchen in just one pan. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear about your experience! Leave a comment or review below and share your photos on social media. Let’s keep spreading the joy of cooking together!