Slow Cooker Shrimp and Chicken Scampi

Introduction

If you love the classic flavors of shrimp and chicken scampi but don’t have the time to cook it on the stove, this slow cooker recipe is perfect for you. With minimal preparation, you can enjoy a delicious and comforting meal that is both flavorful and tender. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this mouthwatering dish.

Ingredients

For the scampi:

1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup of white wine
1/4 cup of chicken broth
1/4 cup of olive oil
1 teaspoon of dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional for a spicy kick)
Salt and pepper to taste

For serving:

8 ounces of linguine or spaghetti
Chopped fresh parsley
Grated Parmesan cheese

Steps

In a slow cooker, combine the shrimp, chicken, minced garlic, lemon juice, white wine, chicken broth, olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the shrimp and chicken with the marinade.
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 4-5 hours or on high heat for 2-3 hours, until the shrimp is pink and the chicken is cooked through.
In the meantime, cook the linguine or spaghetti according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Once the shrimp and chicken are cooked, remove them from the slow cooker using a slotted spoon and set aside. Leave the sauce in the slow cooker.
If desired, you can thicken the sauce by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the mixture into the sauce in the slow cooker and cook on high heat for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the sauce has thickened.
To serve, place a portion of cooked linguine or spaghetti on a plate. Top with the shrimp and chicken, and ladle some of the sauce over the dish. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.

Variations

Feel free to customize this slow cooker shrimp and chicken scampi recipe to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:

Add your favorite vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added color and flavor.
Replace the linguine or spaghetti with spiralized zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.
Experiment with different herbs and spices like basil, thyme, or paprika to give the dish a unique twist.

Tips

For the best results, use raw shrimp and chicken. Frozen shrimp and precooked chicken may alter the texture of the dish.
If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the amount of garlic and red pepper flakes.
Make sure to adjust the cooking time based on the power of your slow cooker. Some models may cook faster or slower than others.
Serve the slow cooker shrimp and chicken scampi with a side salad or crusty bread to complete the meal.

Conclusion

With this slow cooker shrimp and chicken scampi recipe, you can enjoy the delightful flavors of a classic dish with the convenience of a slow cooker. It’s a perfect option for busy weeknights or when you want a hassle-free meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Give this recipe a try and savor the deliciousness!

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp and chicken?

While it’s possible to use frozen shrimp and chicken, the texture and taste of the dish may be affected. It’s recommended to use raw shrimp and chicken for the best results.