Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Herb-Infused Chicken and Shrimp Delight?
It is a one-pot crock pot meal featuring chicken breast cubes and shrimp simmered in a savory tomato sauce with herbs and white wine.
How long does it take to cook the chicken in the crock pot?
The chicken should be cooked on low heat for 4 to 5 hours until it is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
When should I add the shrimp to the crock pot?
Add the shrimp approximately 20 to 30 minutes before you plan to serve the dish.
Do I need to brown the chicken before putting it in the slow cooker?
Yes, browning the chicken in butter for 5-7 minutes first is recommended to achieve a golden color and enhance the flavor.
What can I use instead of white wine?
You can substitute the white wine with an equal amount of chicken broth if you prefer an alcohol-free version.
How many calories are in one serving of this dish?
Each serving contains approximately 200 calories.
What are the best side dishes to serve with this recipe?
This dish is best served hot over a bed of fluffy rice or your favorite pasta.
What size shrimp should I use?
The recipe calls for 1 lb of medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined.
How much protein is in this chicken and shrimp meal?
There are 16.25 grams of protein per serving.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried basil?
Yes, you can use fresh basil, but you should typically triple the amount as dried herbs are more concentrated.
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
With 7.5 grams of carbohydrates per serving, it can fit into many low-carb diets, especially if served without rice or pasta.
How much fat is in this recipe?
This recipe contains 10 grams of fat per serving.
What type of chicken is best for this recipe?
Boneless skinless chicken breasts are recommended, cut into cubes for even cooking.
Should I cook the shrimp on high or low?
Once the shrimp are added, turn the crock pot to high for 20-30 minutes to ensure they cook through properly.
How do I know when the shrimp are done?
The shrimp are cooked when they turn pink and become opaque.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be used and may stay even more tender during the long slow-cooking process.
What type of tomato sauce should I use?
A standard 8-ounce can of plain tomato sauce works best for this herb-infused blend.
Can I prepare this dish if I don't have a skillet?
While browning adds flavor, you could technically place raw chicken in the crock pot, but the texture and taste will be slightly different.
How many people does this recipe serve?
Based on using 1.5-2 lbs of chicken and 1 lb of shrimp, it typically serves 4 to 6 people.
Is this recipe spicy?
No, this is a savory and herb-forward dish. If you prefer heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed, peeled, and deveined before adding them to the crock pot.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this meal?
You can freeze the chicken and sauce, but the texture of the shrimp may become rubbery upon reheating after being frozen.
What kind of onion is best?
One large yellow or white onion is ideal for a sweet, savory balance.
Can I add other vegetables to the crock pot?
Yes, bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms would make excellent additions to this one-pot meal.
Do I need to add water to the crock pot?
No, the tomato sauce and white wine (or broth) provide enough moisture for the slow cooking process.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The main ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but ensure your tomato sauce and broth are certified gluten-free and serve over a GF base.
Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?
Yes, you can substitute 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder for the one fresh clove of minced garlic.
What if my sauce is too thin?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can stir in a small cornstarch slurry during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Can I use olive oil instead of butter?
Yes, olive oil can be used to brown the chicken if you prefer a different fat source or a dairy-free option.