Can you cook shrimp and chicken together?

Yes, you absolutely can cook shrimp and chicken together—and it’s a flavor combo that’s gaining popularity fast. In a well-balanced recipe for shrimp and chicken , timing is everything. Chicken typically takes longer to cook, so it should go into the pan or oven first. Add the shrimp during the last few minutes to prevent overcooking. Whether you’re making pasta, stir-fry, or grilled skewers, this duo can shine when cooked correctly.

Why do you soak shrimp in milk before frying?

Soaking shrimp in milk, especially buttermilk, is a classic technique used before frying. It helps neutralize strong fishy odors, tenderizes the shrimp slightly, and allows coatings or breading to adhere better. This step is optional but can make your shrimp and chicken recipe taste cleaner and more flavorful—especially in fried or crispy preparations.

What do you soak shrimp in before cooking?

Aside from milk, shrimp can be soaked in citrus juice, light brine (salt and sugar solution), or even seasoned water depending on the dish. Each option brings different benefits. For example, soaking shrimp in lemon or lime juice brightens flavor and reduces any fishiness—ideal for light, citrusy shrimp and chicken dishes.

Do not combine shrimp with chicken?

This is one of the oldest culinary myths—and it’s simply not true. There's no health risk in combining shrimp with chicken. In fact, many cultures regularly pair them together in stir-fries, soups, skewers, and pasta. As long as the shrimp and chicken are cooked properly, there’s no reason to avoid combining them. A properly executed recipe for shrimp and chicken is both safe and absolutely delicious.

What not to do when cooking shrimp?

Here are the top mistakes to avoid when cooking shrimp, especially in recipes that include chicken too: Overcooking – Shrimp becomes rubbery fast; pull it off the heat once it turns pink and curls into a C-shape. Skipping the dry – Always pat shrimp dry before seasoning or cooking to get that perfect sear. Using too much acid too early – Acid can pre-cook shrimp and ruin the texture. Avoiding these mistakes ensures your shrimp and chicken recipe turns out tender, flavorful, and balanced.

What is the best way to cook and eat shrimp?

The best way to cook shrimp depends on your flavor goals. For bold, spicy dishes like Cajun pasta, sautéing or pan-searing is best. For light meals, steaming or grilling works beautifully. Shrimp pairs well with lemon, garlic, chili, or butter sauces—and tastes amazing when combined with juicy chicken in stir-fried bowls or pasta dishes. The key to success? Don’t overthink it. Keep it fresh, seasoned, and cook just until done.

Recipe for Shrimp and Chicken – The Best 2-in-1 Protein Combo

Name: Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: ½ pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced; 12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided); 2 tablespoons butter; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; ½ cup reserved pasta water; Optional: fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish

Description

A bold, creamy, and spicy Cajun-style pasta featuring tender shrimp and juicy chicken, perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. This quick and flavorful surf-and-turf dish is ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

Scale

½ pound raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, thinly sliced
12 oz fettuccine or pasta of choice
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
2 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup reserved pasta water
Optional: fresh parsley and lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook pasta according to package directions. Reserve ½ cup pasta water before draining.
In a bowl, season shrimp with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning. In another bowl, season chicken with the remaining tablespoon.
Heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, 6–8 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
In the same skillet, add remaining butter and cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium, add garlic, and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in heavy cream, Parmesan, and reserved pasta water. Stir until sauce thickens, about 2–3 minutes.
Add cooked pasta, shrimp, and chicken into the sauce. Toss to coat evenly.
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with parsley and lemon wedges if desired.

Notes

For a spicier dish, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
You can substitute penne or linguine for fettuccine.
This dish is also delicious with a splash of white wine added to the cream sauce.
Great for meal prep—store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Southern, American

Keywords: recipe for shrimp and chicken, Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta, creamy seafood chicken pasta, easy weeknight dinner, shrimp chicken combo