Chicken is a kitchen staple for good reason—it’s versatile, affordable, and familiar. But let’s be honest: after the fourth grilled chicken breast of the week, things can start to feel a bit… bland. If your taste buds are yearning for something more exciting (and nutritious), seafood might just be the upgrade your weeknight meals need.
Australia’s waters are brimming with fresh, flavour-packed options that are just as easy to cook as chicken—some even easier. Whether you’re meal prepping, throwing together a quick dinner, or hosting a laid-back weekend feast, these simple seafood swaps can bring new life to your routine.
1. Swap Chicken Breast for Barramundi Fillets
If you usually rely on lean chicken breast for your protein fix, barramundi is a brilliant alternative. This Australian favourite is mild, meaty, and loaded with healthy omega-3s.
Why it works:
Barramundi’s firm texture holds up well to grilling, pan-searing, or baking—just like chicken. It absorbs marinades beautifully, and it cooks faster too.
Try this:
Lemon herb grilled barramundi with roasted vegetables. Same effort, 10x the flavour.
2. Replace Chicken Stir-Fry with Prawn Stir-Fry
Busy weeknight? Toss out the diced chicken and throw in some Australian prawns instead. They cook in minutes and instantly elevate your dish.
Why it works:
Prawns offer a sweet, juicy bite and a fast cooking time that makes them perfect for stir-fries, curries, or rice bowls. Plus, they’re high in protein and low in fat.
Try this:
Ginger garlic prawn stir-fry with snow peas and capsicum—vibrant, healthy, and full of zing.
3. Trade Chicken Schnitzel for Crumbed Fish Fillets
Craving something crispy and comforting? Swap out your usual schnitzel for crumbed flathead, snapper, or whiting fillets.
Why it works:
Mild white fish holds a crispy crumb coating just as well as chicken—and tastes lighter and fresher.
Try this:
Golden fish schnitzel with slaw and tartare. It’s like pub food—but lighter and homemade.
4. Swap Chicken Salad for Tuna or Salmon Salad
Your classic grilled chicken salad is getting old. Enter: tinned tuna or hot-smoked salmon—flavourful, satisfying, and ready to go with zero prep.
Why it works:
Tuna and salmon are protein-rich, portable, and pair beautifully with everything from greens to grains.
Try this:
Smoked salmon with rocket, quinoa, avocado, and lemon dressing. It’s not just a salad—it’s a glow-up.
5. Replace Chicken Tacos with Fish or Prawn Tacos
Taco night doesn’t always need chicken or beef. Fish or prawn tacos bring brightness, texture, and coastal vibes to the table.
Why it works:
They’re quick, fresh, and customisable—perfect for a midweek meal that feels like a mini holiday.
Try this:
Grilled fish tacos with mango salsa and lime crema. Every bite tastes like summer.
Why Seafood Is the Upgrade You Didn’t Know You Needed
Making the switch from chicken to seafood isn’t just about variety—it’s also about nutrition. Many seafood options are high in protein, low in saturated fat, and rich in essential nutrients like iodine, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Plus, eating more locally-sourced Australian seafood supports sustainable fishing and farming practices that protect our oceans.
Seafood Doesn’t Have to Be Complicated
Think seafood is too hard or too expensive? Think again.
At Seafood Factory Outlet, we offer fresh and frozen options that make seafood cooking easy, affordable, and accessible—whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned home cook.
Ready to swap out the boring for the bold?
Come visit us at 41 Clapham Rd, Regents Park NSW 2143, or check out our seafood range online at www.seafoodfactoryoutlet.com.au.
