Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner that's sure to impress? Look no further! This pan-seared chicken breast with garlic shrimp recipe is a delightful combination of tender chicken and succulent shrimp, all cooked to perfection in one pan. It's the perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest – easy recipes don't have to be boring! This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this simple yet elegant dish!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1 pound)
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. This simple step enhances the flavor of the chicken and ensures a beautiful sear.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Remember, using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure your chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this can impart a bitter taste. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan and Finish the Dish
Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and lemon juice. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits – this adds incredible depth of flavor to your sauce. Stir in the butter until melted and the sauce slightly thickens.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Return the cooked chicken breasts to the skillet and toss gently to coat them in the delicious garlic-wine sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately. This dish pairs perfectly with rice, pasta, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the chicken and shrimp in batches ensures even browning and cooking.
- Adjust seasoning to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to your preference.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley adds a vibrant freshness to the dish.
Variations:
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet with the garlic for a spicy twist.
- Creamy sauce: Stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Lemon-herb butter: Use a lemon-herb butter instead of regular butter for an extra layer of flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 40-50g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 5-10g
This easy and healthy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a delicious meal to impress your guests. This recipe showcases the best recipes and delivers a delightful blend of flavors. Enjoy!