Easy Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp with Creamy Peanut Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that perfectly balances spice, creaminess, and a satisfying crunch, then you’re in for a treat with this Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp with Creamy Peanut Sauce. This recipe combines tender chicken and succulent shrimp with a luscious peanut-based sauce that’s bursting with flavor. Quick to prepare yet impressive in taste, it’s ideal for both cozy weeknight dinners and lively gatherings. Whether you’re a seafood fan, a peanut lover, or just looking for something new to spice up your mealtime, this dish delivers every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Balanced Flavors: The creamy peanut sauce brings a rich, nutty sweetness that perfectly complements the spicy kick of the bang bang seasoning.
• Versatile & Easy to Make: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish works well as a main course or an appetizer for any occasion.
• Proteins Duo: Combining chicken and shrimp brings a delightful mix of textures and tastes that will satisfy diverse palates.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: It reheats beautifully and holds up well for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
• Customizable Heat Level: You control the spice, so it’s great for anyone from mild to heat seekers alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp with Creamy Peanut Sauce uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that work harmoniously to create a dish rich in texture and flavor. Each component, from the fresh shrimp to the crunchy garnishes, plays a key role in making this recipe shine.

• Chicken breasts: Sliced thinly for quick cooking and tenderness.
• Raw shrimp: Peeled and deveined to ensure freshness and ease of eating.
• Peanut butter: The creamy base for the sauce, adding a nutty depth.
• Sriracha or chili sauce: Adds just the right amount of heat carefully balanced with sweetness.
• Honey or maple syrup: To soften the spice and enhance the sauce’s rich flavor.
• Rice vinegar: Provides a subtle tang that cuts through the creaminess.
• Garlic and ginger: Freshly minced to add aromatic warmth and zest.
• Soy sauce: Adds saltiness and umami to the sauce.
• Vegetable oil: For sautéing the chicken and shrimp evenly without overpowering flavors.
• Crispy peanuts or cashews: Used as a garnish for extra crunch and texture contrast.
• Green onions: Freshly sliced for color and a mild onion flavor.
• Cooked rice or noodles: Recommended base to serve alongside the dish for a full meal.

Variations for Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp with Creamy Peanut Sauce

Feel free to customize this delightful recipe to suit your preferences or pantry items. It’s super adaptable whether you want to switch up proteins, try different nuts, or adjust spice levels.

• Vegetarian version: Replace chicken and shrimp with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative.
• Nut-free option: Substitute peanut butter with sunflower seed butter or tahini to cater to nut allergies.
• Extra spice: Add chopped fresh chili peppers or a dash of cayenne powder to increase the heat.
• Crunchy veggies: Toss in sliced bell peppers, shredded carrots, or snap peas for more color and crunch.
• Different proteins: Try swapping shrimp for scallops or chicken with turkey for variety.

How to Make Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp with Creamy Peanut Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the Proteins

Start by slicing the chicken breasts into thin strips, then season lightly with salt and pepper. Rinse and peel the shrimp if needed, then pat dry to ensure they sear properly in the pan.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Peanut Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together peanut butter, soy sauce, rice vinegar, honey, sriracha, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Adjust the sauce consistency with a little warm water to make it smooth and pourable but still creamy.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken and Shrimp

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden and cooked through, then remove from the pan. Quickly sauté the shrimp for 2 minutes per side or until pink and opaque.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the pan and pour the creamy peanut sauce over the proteins. Toss gently to coat everything thoroughly and warm it all through without boiling. This step ensures every bite is bursting with delicious sauce.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Transfer the chicken and shrimp to a serving dish. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts and sliced green onions for extra crunch and freshness. Serve hot over steamed rice or your favorite noodles.

Pro Tips for Making Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp with Creamy Peanut Sauce

• Fresh ingredients matter: Use fresh garlic, ginger, and green onions for the brightest, most vibrant flavors.
• Don’t overcook shrimp: Shrimp cooks quickly; remove it from heat as soon as it turns pink to avoid toughness.
• Adjust sauce thickness: Add small amounts of water to your sauce for desired creaminess without thinning flavor.
• Toast nuts: Lightly toast peanuts or cashews for enhanced aroma and crunch.
• Use a non-stick skillet: Prevent sticking and uneven cooking, especially for the proteins.

How to Serve Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp with Creamy Peanut Sauce

Garnishes

Add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, crushed peanuts, and sliced green onions to create a fresh, textural contrast and make the presentation pop.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, coconut rice, or even rice noodles for an Asian-inspired meal. A side of lightly steamed broccoli or snap peas will add lovely greens and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the bang bang chicken and shrimp as lettuce wraps, with crisp iceberg or butter lettuce cups adding a cool, fresh bite alongside the spicy, creamy proteins.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken in the fridge; simply stir before reheating.

Freezing

This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the creamy peanut sauce, which may separate. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored refrigerated for short periods.

Reheating

Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to maintain the sauce’s texture and prevent the proteins from drying out. Adding a splash of water can help loosen the sauce while warming.

FAQs

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well—just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess water in the pan.

Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has a mild to medium heat level, but you can easily adjust the amount of sriracha or chili sauce to make it milder or spicier.

Can I substitute peanut butter with another nut butter?

Absolutely! Almond or cashew butter can be used as alternatives, but they will slightly change the flavor profile.

What is the best way to serve leftover Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp?

Leftovers are fantastic over fresh greens for a salad or reheated with rice or noodles for a quick meal.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to keep the recipe gluten-free without sacrificing taste.

Final Thoughts

Trying this Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp with Creamy Peanut Sauce is like inviting a burst of bold, comforting flavors into your kitchen without the fuss. It’s quick, versatile, and endlessly satisfying, making it a recipe you’ll return to time and again. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this deliciously creamy and spicy dish. Your taste buds will thank you!

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