Shrimp and Chicken Scampi: A Culinary Delight

Shrimp and Chicken Scampi: A Culinary Delight

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the sumptuous flavors of Shrimp and Chicken Scampi. This delightful recipe marries the succulent textures of shrimp and chicken in a rich, buttery sauce that is both indulgent and satisfying. Whether you’re preparing a cozy dinner for two or entertaining guests, this dish is guaranteed to impress with its vibrant flavors and beautiful presentation.

Imagine a plate of perfectly cooked long pasta, generously tossed in a garlicky, lemon-infused sauce, crowned with tender strips of chicken and plump, juicy shrimp. The bright notes of fresh herbs and a hint of red pepper flakes add an extra layer of complexity, ensuring that every bite is a celebration of taste. This is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that evokes memories of summer nights spent dining al fresco, with laughter and joy filling the air.

The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its flavor profile but also in its simplicity. With just a few quality ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a restaurant-worthy dish right in your own kitchen. From the moment you begin cooking, the enticing aroma of garlic and olive oil will fill your home, drawing everyone to the kitchen in eager anticipation.

In this guide, we will walk you through each step of preparing Shrimp and Chicken Scampi, ensuring that you have all the tools and knowledge needed for a successful cooking adventure. We’ll explore the importance of selecting the right shrimp and chicken, and share tips for achieving that silky sauce that coats the pasta beautifully. At the end, we’ll present a complete list of ingredients, so you can gather everything you need to get started.

Ingredients

Let’s gather the ingredients that will transform your kitchen into a culinary haven. Here’s what you’ll need to create this tantalizing Shrimp and Chicken Scampi:

• ½ lb (225g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• ¼ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ lb (225g) chicken breasts, sliced into thin strips (about ¾ inch wide by 2-3 inches long)
• Kosher salt and cracked black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (or a gluten-free substitute)
• 2 teaspoons butter, for cooking the chicken
• 4 tablespoons (60ml) extra virgin olive oil, divided, plus more as needed
• 4 teaspoons (25g) minced garlic (approximately 4 to 5 medium cloves)
• A pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
• ½ cup (120ml) dry vermouth for depth of flavor
• 3 tablespoons (45g) unsalted butter, cut into tablespoon-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh lemon juice and 1 teaspoon (4g) grated lemon zest
• 1 tablespoon (9g) minced fresh herbs (parsley, basil, chives, marjoram, etc.)
• 1 lb (450g) long pasta (like spaghetti or linguine)
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Cooking Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to dive into the cooking process. Follow these steps to create a delightful Shrimp and Chicken Scampi that will leave everyone craving more.

Step 1: Prepare the Shrimp
In a large bowl, combine the shrimp with ¾ teaspoon of kosher salt and baking soda. Toss until the shrimp are evenly coated, then let them sit for at least 10 minutes, or up to 1 hour. This technique helps to firm up the shrimp, making them extra succulent. After marinating, rinse the shrimp in a sieve under cold water, then set aside.

Step 2: Season the Chicken
In another large bowl, place the sliced chicken and season it with ¼ teaspoon each of salt and pepper, followed by 1 tablespoon of flour. Toss the chicken until each strip is evenly coated.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 2 teaspoons of butter along with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, sauté the chicken strips until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a plate. Wipe out any remnants from the skillet using a paper towel to avoid burning them in the next step.

Step 4: Sauté the Shrimp
Increase the heat to high and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the skillet until shimmering. Place the shrimp in an even layer and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are just cooked through and beginning to turn golden, about 2-3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon or tongs, transfer the shrimp to the plate with the chicken. If necessary, add more oil and repeat with any remaining shrimp.

Step 5: Infuse the Sauce
Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet, along with the minced garlic and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Cook while stirring constantly to keep the garlic moving, until it begins to turn golden, about 1 minute. If needed, reduce the heat to prevent scorching.

Step 6: Add the Vermouth
Pour in the dry vermouth and bring it to a boil over high heat. Stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it boil until the raw alcohol smell dissipates and the vermouth has reduced by about half, which should take around 3 minutes.

Step 7: Create the Sauce
Add the cubed butter to the pan, stirring and swirling to create a silky, emulsified sauce. Remove from heat and add the fresh lemon juice, seasoning with salt to taste. Return to medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer, continually stirring in the lemon juice. If the sauce separates, whisk in a teaspoon or two of water until it comes back together.

Step 8: Combine the Ingredients
Return the chicken and shrimp to the skillet, adding the minced herbs and lemon zest. Toss everything until the shrimp and chicken are well coated in the sauce and warmed through.

Step 9: Cook the Pasta
Cook your choice of long pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta.

Step 10: Toss with Sauce
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Stir well, adding reserved pasta water 2 tablespoons at a time as needed to help bind everything together.

Step 11: Serve
Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges and additional fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy this delicious Shrimp and Chicken Scampi as a centerpiece of your meal!

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 674 kcal
• Fat: 39 g
• Protein: 31 g

Cooking Tips

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Select fresh shrimp and chicken for the best flavor. Fresh seafood will elevate the dish significantly.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the shrimp and chicken; they cook quickly. Overcooking will lead to rubbery textures.
• Experiment with Herbs: Fresh herbs add a vibrant touch to the dish. Feel free to experiment with your favorites or whatever you have on hand.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go. Adjust the seasoning of your sauce to your liking, adding more salt or lemon juice as needed.

With this Shrimp and Chicken Scampi recipe, you’re not just preparing a meal; you’re creating a delightful experience that will tantalize your taste buds and warm your heart. Each bite is a testament to the joy of cooking and the love that goes into sharing food with others. Enjoy this culinary journey, and savor every moment!