Shrimp And Chicken Pilaf
A flavorful and hearty rice dish combining tender chicken, succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, and fresh tomatoes, all simmered in a fragrant broth with hints of lemon and sherry. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, it offers a delightful mix of savory, tangy, and smoky flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove from pan and set aside.
- Reserve 1 tablespoon of the bacon fat. In the same skillet, sauté the chicken chunks and chopped onion in the reserved fat until tender.
- Add chopped tomatoes, lemon juice, sherry, black pepper, and red pepper to the skillet. Stir well.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cover the skillet, reduce the heat, and simmer for 25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Stir in the shrimp and bacon pieces. Cook and stir until the shrimp turns pink and is cooked through, about 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of canned. You can substitute the shrimp with cooked lobster or crab for a twist. If you prefer a vegetarian option, omit the chicken and bacon and use mushrooms and extra vegetables instead. Adjust the spices to suit your taste, especially if you enjoy a bit more heat like in Seafood Chowder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Shrimp and Chicken Pilaf hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with a side salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving it with crusty bread or a light white wine. This dish complements other American recipes well, making it a versatile addition to your table.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth to the skillet to prevent drying out, and heat over low until warmed through. You can also microwave it, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shrimp And Chicken Pilaf contains roughly 138 calories, with 15g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (29% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1268mg per serving (55% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the pilaf ahead of time by cooking the chicken and rice, then refrigerating it. When ready to serve, reheat and add the shrimp and bacon just before serving to ensure they stay tender and flavorful.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a healthier option or a vegetarian alternative, consider using turkey bacon or smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor without the fat. Alternatively, you can skip the bacon altogether and add more spices to enhance the dish's flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat in your Shrimp and Chicken Pilaf, you can add more red pepper flakes or include diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper. Adjust to your preference, tasting as you go to find the perfect balance.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).