
Ingredients:
- Medium Shrimp: About 10 shrimp per serving
- Chicken Breast: 1 per serving
- Cornstarch: ¼ cup for coating
- Peanut Butter
- Soy Sauce
- Sugar
- Lime Juice
- Fresh Veggies: Zucchini and carrots, sliced thinly
- Rice: For serving as a base
Substitutions and Alternatives:
- Shrimp Substitute: If shrimp is not to your liking, you can use chicken alone, or tofu as a vegetarian option.
- Coconut Milk Substitute: If desired, swap coconut milk for almond or regular milk, based on dietary preferences.
- Adjust Spice Level: Feel free to adjust the spice level to your taste by adding extra chili flakes or sriracha.
Health Benefits of Shrimp and Chicken:
- Shrimp: With just 84 calories and 18 grams of protein in a 3-ounce serving, shrimp is a low-calorie protein packed with selenium, vitamin B12, and omega-3 fatty acids—beneficial for heart and brain health.
- Chicken: A lean protein with 26 grams of protein in a 3-ounce serving, chicken provides the nutrients needed for muscle repair and a healthy metabolism.
- A Balanced Meal: Both shrimp and chicken are ideal for a healthy, low-carb meal when paired with vegetables and rice, supporting a balanced diet while being delicious.
Step-by-Step Recipe for Bang Bang Shrimp and Chicken:
Preparation of Ingredients:
- Get Ready to Cook: Start by cutting the chicken into small pieces. Clean and devein the shrimp. Slice the zucchini and carrots into thin strips. Measure the spices, sauces, and other ingredients to ensure easy cooking.
Cooking the Shrimp and Chicken:
Heat the Oil:
Pour oil into a large skillet, heating it to 350-375°F (175-190°C).Coat the Chicken and Shrimp:
Season the chicken and shrimp with salt and pepper. Then coat both in cornstarch for that extra crunch.Cook the Chicken:
Fry the chicken pieces for about 3 minutes, until lightly browned. Then, remove them from the skillet and set them aside.Cook the Shrimp:
Next, fry the shrimp for 2-3 minutes until they turn a pink color. Be careful not to overcook them!
Making the Bang Bang Sauce:
- Create the Sauce:
In a saucepan, combine the peanut butter, water, sugar, soy sauce, rice vinegar, lime juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir over medium heat until it starts to bubble, creating a smooth, creamy sauce.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 497 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Protein: 21g
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Cholesterol: 91mg
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 14g
- Vitamin A: 318 IU
- Iron: 2mg
Tips for a Perfect Bang Bang Shrimp and Chicken:
- Coat Well: Make sure to coat the shrimp and chicken evenly in cornstarch for that crispy texture.
- High Heat for Frying: Cooking on high heat ensures the shrimp and chicken are crispy and not soggy.
- Make Extra Sauce: This sauce keeps well in the fridge, so making extra means you can enjoy it with other dishes.
- Presentation: To make the dish look extra special, drizzle the sauce over the shrimp and chicken just before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Fluffy Rice or Quinoa: A great base to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Mixed Greens Salad: The coolness of the salad is a perfect contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.
- Steamed Broccoli: Adds color and nutrients to the meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: For a savory addition to this hearty dish.
- Crispy Fries or Garlic Bread: To round out the meal with some extra indulgence.
Variations of Bang Bang Shrimp and Chicken:
- Spicy Modifications: For those who like it hotter, increase the red pepper flakes, or add sriracha. Chili oil can also be used in the frying process to boost the spice level.
- Vegetarian Versions: Replace the shrimp with cauliflower, tofu, or tempeh for a satisfying vegetarian alternative. Adjust the spices to match your preference.
Why You Should Try Bang Bang Shrimp and Chicken:
Bang Bang Shrimp and Chicken is the epitome of a flavorful, exciting dish. The crispy textures of shrimp and chicken combined with the creamy, spicy sauce make every bite irresistible. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a weeknight dinner to a festive gathering.
With the sweet and spicy sauce bringing everything together, this dish is sure to please every palate. The colors, the textures, and the flavors come together in a way that makes it both a visual and culinary delight.
Enjoy cooking this delightful dish and sharing it with loved ones! It’s sure to become a family favorite!
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