Stir fry dishes are a game-changer for quick, healthy, and delicious meals. If you’re looking for a dinner idea that combines protein-packed ingredients with vibrant vegetables and a mouthwatering sauce, chicken and shrimp stir fry is the perfect choice. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also highly customizable, making it suitable for different dietary needs—whether you’re following a low-carb, keto, or gluten-free lifestyle.
In this ultimate guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about making the best chicken and shrimp stir fry, from ingredient selection and step-by-step preparation to expert cooking tips and serving suggestions. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook, you’ll discover useful hacks that will elevate your stir fry game. Let’s dive in!
Introduction:
Why Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry is a Popular Dish
There’s a reason why chicken and shrimp stir fry has become a household favorite. It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures—tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and crisp vegetables all come together in a single pan. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. You can adjust the ingredients to match your taste, spice preference, and dietary needs.
Another reason this dish is a go-to for many is its speed. Stir fry recipes typically take under 30 minutes from start to finish, making them ideal for busy weeknights. No complicated steps, just simple, fresh ingredients cooked in a flavorful sauce.
The Perfect Balance of Protein and Flavor
Why choose between chicken and shrimp when you can have both? Combining these two proteins not only enhances the flavor but also creates a nutritionally balanced meal. Chicken provides a good source of lean protein, while shrimp adds a boost of omega-3 fatty acids and essential minerals. Together, they make for a powerhouse meal that keeps you full and energized.
How This Dish Fits Into Different Diets
One of the best things about stir fry dishes is how easily they can be tailored to suit different diets:
- Low-carb/keto: Swap out traditional rice for cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
- Gluten-free: Ensure you’re using a gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos.
- Paleo-friendly: Replace soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos and opt for fresh, whole ingredients.
- High-protein diet: Increase the portion of chicken and shrimp while reducing the amount of starchy vegetables.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry
Choosing the Right Chicken and Shrimp
For the best chicken and shrimp stir fry, selecting high-quality proteins is crucial. When choosing chicken, go for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs—they cook quickly and remain tender. Chicken thighs are more flavorful and forgiving, while chicken breasts offer a leaner option.
When it comes to shrimp, opt for medium to large shrimp (size 21/25 or 16/20) since they hold their texture well when stir-fried. Fresh shrimp is always best, but if you’re using frozen, make sure to thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
Best Vegetables to Use for Stir Fry
A good stir fry is all about color, crunch, and variety. The best vegetables for chicken and shrimp stir fry include:
- Bell peppers : Add sweetness and vibrant color.
- Broccoli : Gives a great crunch and soaks up sauce.
- Carrots : Slightly sweet and adds texture.
- Snap peas : Crisp and fresh, perfect for stir fry.
- Mushrooms : Absorb flavors beautifully.
- Onions : Provide a nice base flavor.
You can mix and match based on what you have, but aim for a balance of firm and soft veggies for the best texture.
The Secret to a Delicious Stir Fry Sauce
A great stir fry sauce ties everything together. The perfect sauce includes a balance of salty, sweet, spicy, and umami flavors. Here’s what you need:
- Soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free) : Adds depth and saltiness.
- Oyster sauce : Provides a rich, slightly sweet umami kick.
- Garlic and ginger : Essential aromatics for bold flavor.
- Sesame oil : Adds nutty, toasted richness.
- Cornstarch : Helps thicken the sauce for a glossy coating.
Want to make it spicy? Add Sriracha, chili flakes, or Thai chili paste for an extra kick!
Substitutions and Variations for Different Dietary Needs
Making adjustments for dietary preferences is easy:
- Low-carb/keto: Skip cornstarch and sugar, and use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce.
- Vegan variation: Swap out chicken and shrimp for tofu or tempeh and replace oyster sauce with hoisin or mushroom sauce.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry
Prepping the Ingredients: Cutting and Marinating Tips
A successful stir fry starts with proper prep. Since stir frying happens quickly, make sure everything is ready before turning on the stove.
- Chicken: Cut into thin, bite-sized strips to ensure even cooking. Marinate it for at least 10 minutes in soy sauce, garlic, and a pinch of cornstarch to keep it tender.
- Shrimp: Peel and devein, then toss with a bit of salt and pepper.
- Vegetables: Chop into uniform pieces so they cook evenly. Slice firmer veggies (like carrots) thinner to help them cook at the same rate as softer ones.
The Best Cooking Equipment for Stir Fry
A good stir fry needs high heat and the right cookware. The best option? A carbon steel wok or a large nonstick skillet. A wok distributes heat evenly, allowing for quick cooking without overcooking ingredients.
Cooking Chicken and Shrimp to Perfection
Cooking proteins properly is key to a great stir fry. Follow this order:
- Cook the chicken first : Heat oil in a wok, then cook the chicken until it’s golden brown and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
- Sear the shrimp : In the same pan, cook shrimp for about 1-2 minutes per side, just until they turn pink. Overcooked shrimp become rubbery, so be careful!
Once both proteins are cooked, it’s time to bring everything together.
Assembling the Stir Fry: Layering Flavors for the Best Taste
Now, let’s put it all together:
- Sauté the aromatics : In the same wok, add a bit more oil, then stir fry garlic and ginger until fragrant.
- Toss in vegetables : Start with firmer ones like carrots and broccoli, then add softer veggies like bell peppers and snap peas. Cook for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender but still crisp.
- Return the chicken and shrimp : Stir everything together.
- Pour in the sauce : Give it a quick mix to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Final touch : Drizzle a bit of sesame oil and sprinkle sesame seeds or chopped green onions for garnish.
Flavorful Stir Fry Sauces – How to Make and Customize
A chicken and shrimp stir fry is only as good as its sauce. The right sauce enhances the flavors, adding the perfect balance of savory, sweet, spicy, and umami notes. Here, we’ll explore a few go-to sauces and how to tweak them to match your taste.
Traditional Stir Fry Sauce with Garlic and Ginger
This classic sauce is simple but packed with bold flavors. It works well with any stir fry, especially chicken and shrimp stir fry.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- ½ tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp cornstarch (to thicken)
- 2 tbsp water
How to Make It:
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
- Dissolve cornstarch in water, then add to the sauce.
- Stir well and pour over your stir fry at the final step.
This sauce creates a rich, well-balanced taste that complements both chicken and shrimp beautifully.
Spicy Szechuan-Style Sauce for Extra Heat
If you love bold, fiery flavors, this sauce is for you. Inspired by Szechuan cuisine, it adds the perfect amount of heat.
Ingredients:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp chili garlic sauce (or more for extra heat)
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
- ½ tsp Sichuan peppercorns, ground (optional but authentic!)
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
This sauce adds a spicy, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with shrimp’s sweetness.
Sweet and Savory Teriyaki Stir Fry Sauce
For a slightly sweeter, milder option, teriyaki sauce is a fantastic choice.
Ingredients:
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic, minced
- 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water
This glossy, sweet-salty sauce caramelizes beautifully when added to a hot pan.
How to Adjust Sauce Consistency and Flavor
Want a thicker sauce? Add more cornstarch.
Prefer it thinner? Mix in extra water or broth.
Looking for more umami? A dash of fish sauce or miso paste can deepen the flavor.
With these customizable sauces, you can take your chicken and shrimp stir fry to the next level!
Tips for the Perfect Stir Fry Every Time
Making a delicious stir fry is more than just tossing ingredients into a pan. Here are expert tips to guarantee the best texture, flavor, and balance every time.
How to Avoid Overcooking Chicken and Shrimp
Nothing ruins a stir fry faster than rubbery shrimp or dry chicken. To prevent this:
- Cook proteins separately: Stir fry chicken first, set it aside, then cook shrimp briefly before adding everything back.
- Use high heat: Stir frying is all about quick, high-temperature cooking to retain moisture.
- Marinate your chicken: Even a 10-minute soak in soy sauce, garlic, and cornstarch keeps it tender.
The Right Order for Adding Ingredients
Timing is everything in stir frying! Follow this best sequence:
- Heat oil and cook aromatics (garlic, ginger) for flavor.
- Add firm veggies first (like carrots and broccoli).
- Toss in softer veggies like peppers and snap peas.
- Return proteins to the pan.
- Pour in sauce and toss to coat evenly.
This ensures everything cooks perfectly without getting soggy.
Using High Heat for the Best Stir Fry Texture
A common mistake? Not using enough heat! Stir frying requires a smoking hot pan to create that signature charred, caramelized flavor.
- If using a wok, preheat it until it’s almost smoking before adding oil.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in batches if needed.
- Keep stirring! Stir fry means constant motion to avoid burning.
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Mistake: Stir fry turns out watery.
Fix: Avoid adding too many vegetables at once. Also, use high heat to evaporate excess moisture.
Mistake: Shrimp tastes rubbery.
Fix: Cook for only 1-2 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp become chewy!
Mistake: Sauce is too salty or bland.
Fix: Add a little honey or sugar to balance out soy sauce. Adjust with a splash of vinegar or lime juice for acidity.
By following these pro tips, your chicken and shrimp stir fry will turn out perfectly every time!
Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes
A delicious chicken and shrimp stir fry deserves the perfect side dish to complete the meal. Whether you prefer classic rice, noodles, or a low-carb alternative, there are plenty of options to make this dish even more satisfying.
Best Rice and Noodle Pairings
The right base can enhance the flavors of your stir fry. Here are some popular choices:
- Steamed Jasmine Rice : A fluffy, slightly sticky rice that soaks up the sauce beautifully.
- Brown Rice : A healthier, fiber-rich option with a nutty taste.
- Fried Rice : Turn it into a complete meal by tossing in some scrambled eggs and extra veggies.
- Lo Mein Noodles : These soft, chewy noodles are perfect for absorbing stir fry sauce.
- Rice Noodles : A lighter, gluten-free option that pairs well with an Asian-style stir fry.
Healthy Low-Carb Options: Cauliflower Rice & Zucchini Noodles
If you’re watching your carbs, there are great alternatives to traditional rice and noodles:
- Cauliflower Rice : This low-carb substitute has a similar texture to rice and absorbs sauces well.
- Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles) : A fresh, light alternative that adds a slight crunch to the dish.
- Shirataki Noodles : These zero-calorie noodles are an excellent option for keto and low-carb diets.
Garnishing and Presentation Tips
Want to take your chicken and shrimp stir fry to the next level? Try these finishing touches:
- Sprinkle toasted sesame seeds for extra crunch.
- Drizzle a few drops of sesame oil for a deep, nutty aroma.
- Add freshly chopped green onions or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.
- Serve with lime wedges for a fresh, citrusy twist.
Now that you know how to serve your stir fry, let’s move on to frequently asked questions about this tasty dish!
FAQs About Chicken and Shrimp Stir Fry
1. What is the best way to season chicken and shrimp for stir fry?
To maximize flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and a little cornstarch for at least 10 minutes. For shrimp, a simple mix of salt, pepper, and a splash of sesame oil works great. If you like bold flavors, add ginger, chili flakes, or a dash of fish sauce to the mix.
2. Can I make chicken and shrimp stir fry ahead of time?
Yes! You can prep all ingredients in advance and store them in separate containers in the fridge. Cooked stir fry can be stored for up to 3 days, but shrimp tastes best when eaten fresh. If reheating, use a hot skillet instead of a microwave to keep textures crisp.
3. What are the healthiest ways to cook stir fry without too much oil?
For a lighter version, use a nonstick pan or wok and reduce oil to just 1-2 teaspoons. You can also swap traditional oil for chicken broth or water to stir-fry the veggies while keeping them moist. Avoid deep frying proteins and instead, opt for quick stir-frying over high heat.
4. How do I prevent my stir fry from being too watery?
The secret is high heat and quick cooking! Make sure your wok is very hot before adding ingredients. Also, don’t overcrowd the pan—cook in small batches to keep moisture levels low. Finally, use a cornstarch slurry in your sauce to create a thicker, glossy texture.
Final Thoughts
A well-made chicken and shrimp stir fry is a perfect combination of flavor, texture, and nutrition. By choosing the right ingredients, using high heat, and following the right cooking techniques, you can create a delicious, restaurant-quality stir fry at home in under 30 minutes. Whether you enjoy it with rice, noodles, or a low-carb alternative, this dish is versatile and easily customizable to your taste.
From selecting the best proteins and vegetables to perfecting stir fry sauces, this guide has covered everything you need to know. Plus, with expert tips to avoid common mistakes, you’ll be able to whip up this dish like a pro every time.
Now, it’s your turn to try it out! Have fun experimenting with different sauces and side dishes, and enjoy a flavorful, home-cooked meal that’s quick, easy, and satisfying. 🍜🔥
Print
easy chicken and shrimp stir-fry recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Chicken and shrimp stir-fry is a delicious, protein-packed dish with a flavorful mix of vegetables, soy sauce, and garlic, perfect for a quick meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, thinly sliced
- ½ lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 carrot, julienned
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch ginger, grated
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional)
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Instructions
1. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until golden, about 4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
2. Add shrimp to the pan and cook for 2 minutes until pink. Remove and set aside.
3. Heat the remaining oil and sauté garlic and ginger until fragrant.
4. Add bell pepper, broccoli, and carrots. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes.
5. Return chicken and shrimp to the pan.
6. Pour in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
7. If needed, mix cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and add to thicken the sauce.
8. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring continuously.
9. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.
10. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Notes
- Use fresh or frozen shrimp for best results.
- Adjust soy sauce to taste for a lighter or saltier flavor.
- Add mushrooms, snap peas, or baby corn for variety.
- For extra heat, increase red pepper flakes or add sriracha.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stir-fry
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (1/4 of total recipe)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
Keywords: chicken and shrimp stir-fry, stir-fry recipe, easy stir-fry, Asian stir-fry, quick dinner, healthy stir-fry