Hey guys! Today, we're diving into a dish that's guaranteed to become a family favorite: Shrimp Scampi and Chicken. This recipe brings together the best of both worlds, combining succulent shrimp with tender chicken in a luscious, garlicky scampi sauce. Trust me, it's supreme!

Why This Recipe Rocks

Before we get cooking, let's talk about why this recipe is so awesome. First off, it’s incredibly versatile. You can serve it over pasta, rice, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Plus, it's quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests at a dinner party. The combination of shrimp and chicken offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors, making every bite exciting. And let's not forget about that scampi sauce – garlicky, buttery, and utterly irresistible. This dish is all about creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your taste buds.

Another reason to love this recipe is its adaptability. Feel free to tweak it to your liking. Want to add some veggies? Throw in some spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms. Prefer more spice? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes. The possibilities are endless! Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover chicken you might have in the fridge. This recipe is not just about following instructions; it's about getting creative and making something truly your own. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this dish is sure to bring a smile to your face and satisfaction to your belly.

Finally, let’s talk about the wow factor. When you serve this dish, you’re not just serving dinner; you’re serving an experience. The aroma alone will have everyone rushing to the table. And the taste? Forget about it! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have your family and friends raving about your culinary skills. So, are you ready to become a kitchen superstar? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You'll Need

Alright, let's gather our ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this supreme Shrimp Scampi and Chicken:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little kick)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Cooked pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles, for serving

Ingredient Breakdown:

• Chicken: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for convenience. Cutting them into bite-sized pieces ensures they cook quickly and evenly. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Shrimp: Large shrimp are ideal for this recipe. Make sure they are peeled and deveined to save time. Fresh or frozen shrimp will work, just thaw them completely before cooking.
• Butter: Butter is essential for that rich, decadent scampi sauce. You can use salted or unsalted butter, depending on your preference. If you're watching your sodium intake, go for unsalted.
• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic is a must for that classic scampi flavor. Don't skimp on the garlic – it's what makes this dish so delicious!
• White Wine: A dry white wine adds depth and complexity to the sauce. Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc are excellent choices. If you don't have wine on hand, you can substitute it with more chicken broth.
• Chicken Broth: Chicken broth adds moisture and flavor to the sauce. Use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Lemon Juice: Fresh lemon juice brightens up the sauce and adds a zesty touch. Don't use bottled lemon juice – it just doesn't compare to the real thing.
• Parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor. Chop it finely for the best results.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to the dish. Use them sparingly if you're sensitive to spice.
• Salt and Pepper: Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the chicken and shrimp. Season generously for the best flavor.
• Pasta/Rice/Zucchini Noodles: Choose your favorite base for serving. Pasta is the classic choice, but rice and zucchini noodles are also delicious options.

Having all these ingredients ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable. Now, let’s move on to the fun part – cooking!

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Alright, guys, let's get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your supreme Shrimp Scampi and Chicken:

1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and black pepper. Make sure each piece is nicely coated for maximum flavor.
2. Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet or pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until it's golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
4. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the white wine and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. This adds tons of flavor to the sauce!
5. Simmer the Sauce: Let the sauce simmer for about 5 minutes, or until it has reduced slightly. This will help thicken the sauce and intensify the flavors.
6. Add Lemon Juice and Parsley: Stir in the lemon juice and chopped fresh parsley. This will brighten up the sauce and add a fresh, herbaceous note.
7. Combine Chicken and Shrimp: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the shrimp and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-5 minutes. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp – they should be tender and juicy.
8. Season to Taste: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or lemon juice to your liking.
9. Serve: Serve the Shrimp Scampi and Chicken over your choice of pasta, rice, or zucchini noodles. Garnish with extra parsley and a lemon wedge, if desired.

Pro Tips for Perfection:

• Don't Overcrowd the Pan: When sautéing the chicken and shrimp, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure they brown evenly.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, lemon juice, and parsley make a huge difference in the flavor of this dish. Avoid using bottled or dried substitutes whenever possible.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you're not a fan of spice, omit the red pepper flakes. If you like it hot, add a pinch or two more.
• Serve Immediately: This dish is best served immediately while the sauce is hot and the shrimp and chicken are tender.

Following these steps will ensure your Shrimp Scampi and Chicken turns out perfectly every time. Get ready to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own home!

Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best things about this Shrimp Scampi and Chicken recipe is its versatility. Here are some fun variations and add-ins to try:

• Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach, bell peppers, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and flavor. Sauté the veggies with the garlic before adding the wine and broth.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra kick.
• Creamy Scampi: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
• Seafood Medley: Add other types of seafood, such as scallops or mussels, for a more diverse seafood experience.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with a side of garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious scampi sauce.
• Parmesan Cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese over the top for added flavor and richness.

Vegetarian Option:

For a vegetarian twist, skip the chicken and add more vegetables, such as zucchini, eggplant, or artichoke hearts. You can also add some tofu or tempeh for extra protein. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Gluten-Free Option:

To make this recipe gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta or serve it over rice or zucchini noodles. Also, make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free.

These variations and add-ins allow you to customize the recipe to your liking and create a dish that's perfect for you and your family. Don't be afraid to experiment and get creative in the kitchen!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your supreme Shrimp Scampi and Chicken is ready, it's time to serve it up! Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable:

• Pasta: Serve over your favorite type of pasta, such as linguine, spaghetti, or fettuccine. Toss the pasta with the sauce to ensure every strand is coated in that delicious scampi flavor.
• Rice: Serve over a bed of fluffy white rice or brown rice. The rice will soak up the sauce beautifully.
• Zucchini Noodles: For a low-carb option, serve over zucchini noodles (zoodles). This is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy this dish.
• Side Salad: Serve with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is a perfect complement to the rich scampi sauce.
• Garlic Bread: Serve with garlic bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. You can make your own garlic bread or buy it pre-made from the store.
• Lemon Wedges: Garnish with lemon wedges for an extra burst of citrus flavor. Squeeze the lemon juice over the dish just before serving.
• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle with extra fresh parsley or basil for added flavor and visual appeal.

Wine Pairing:

Pair this dish with a crisp, dry white wine, such as Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, or Chardonnay. The wine will complement the flavors of the shrimp, chicken, and scampi sauce.

Dessert Pairing:

For dessert, try a light and refreshing option, such as lemon sorbet, fruit salad, or a slice of angel food cake.

With these serving suggestions, you're sure to create a memorable dining experience for your family and friends. Enjoy!

Conclusion

So there you have it, guys! A supreme recipe for Shrimp Scampi and Chicken that’s sure to impress. It's easy to make, incredibly versatile, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit. So grab your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a culinary masterpiece. Happy cooking!

Remember, the key to a great dish is not just following the recipe but also adding your personal touch. So don't be afraid to experiment with different variations and add-ins to create a dish that's uniquely yours. And most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! Cooking should be an enjoyable experience, so relax, put on some music, and let your creativity flow. With a little practice and a lot of love, you'll be whipping up restaurant-quality meals in no time. Bon appétit!