When it comes to creating a truly memorable meal, few combinations are as delicious and versatile as chicken and shrimp recipe. Imagine a dish that brings together the savory flavor of chicken and the succulent, delicate taste of shrimp. This duo offers something for everyone, whether you’re preparing a quick dinner for the family or looking to impress guests with something a bit more special. The versatility of chicken and shrimp recipe means you can explore creamy pastas, spicy stir-fries, or even simple grilled options. Get ready to explore an irresistible recipe that balances simplicity and flavor.
Fun Fact: Did you know that shrimp and chicken are low-fat, high-protein ingredients? When paired, they offer a unique flavor balance and satisfying texture.
In this article, we’ll walk you through an easy yet restaurant-quality recipe for Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta that you’ll want to add to your weekly rotation.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta recipe is designed to impress without the fuss. Here’s why it’s a perfect choice:
Quick and Simple
This recipe takes just about 35 minutes from start to finish, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or when you’re craving something special without spending hours in the kitchen. The steps are straightforward, and all you need are a few common ingredients to get started.
Balanced Flavors and Textures
The combination of tender chicken and juicy shrimp provides a beautiful contrast, with each bite offering a mix of savory and slightly sweet flavors. The creamy sauce ties everything together and elevates the dish with a smooth, rich texture that isn’t overwhelming.
High-Protein and Satisfying
Both chicken and shrimp are high in protein and low in fat, making this dish filling and nutritious without being heavy. It’s a great option if you’re looking for a meal that’s as wholesome as it is tasty.
Customizable for Different Preferences
This recipe is easy to adapt to different tastes or dietary needs. Want a spicy kick? Add a few Cajun flavorings or ruddy pepper flakes. For a lighter, dairy-free version, simply swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and skip the Parmesan. You can even substitute pasta for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash if you’re looking for a low-carb option.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal
Whether you’re cooking for family, companions, or fair yourself, this dish is an ensured hit. It’s hearty enough for gatherings but elegant enough for special occasions. Plus, leftovers make great meal-prep options, as the flavors only get better over time!
Restaurant Quality at Home
This creamy chicken and shrimp pasta has that luxurious, restaurant-quality taste and texture, perfect for impressing guests. Even though it’s simple to prepare, the flavors are elevated enough to make it feel like an indulgent treat right from your own kitchen.
This recipe promises big flavors, a versatile approach, and a satisfying meal everyone will love, giving you more than enough reason to make it a regular in your meal rotation.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
Chicken Breast
- Why It’s Essential: Chicken breast brings a hearty, savory flavor and is easy to cook. It holds seasonings well, giving the dish a satisfying depth.
- Alternatives: If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs are a juicy, flavorful substitute. For a vegetarian option, try firm tofu, seasoned and pan-fried.
Shrimp
- Why It’s Essential: Shrimp adds a slightly sweet, delicate flavor that balances the richness of the chicken.
- Alternatives: If shrimp isn’t available, scallops or chunks of a mild fish like cod can work, though the texture will differ.
Heavy Cream and Parmesan
- Why They’re Essential: Heavy cream and Parmesan are key for a smooth, creamy sauce that clings to the pasta. Parmesan also adds a salty, nutty flavor that rounds out the dish.
- Alternatives: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream for a dairy-free version. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan in a pinch, though it will alter the flavor slightly.
Garlic and Onion
- Why They’re Essential: These aromatics provide a base layer of flavor that enhances both the chicken and shrimp.
- Alternatives: Shallots are a milder substitute for onions, while garlic powder can be used if fresh garlic isn’t available.
How to Make Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Slice the chicken breast thinly for faster cooking, season with salt and pepper, and set aside.
- Pat shrimp dry to ensure they sear well.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
- Boil water in a large pot with a generous pinch of salt, then cook pasta until it reaches al dente. Deplete and hurl with a little sum of olive oil to anticipate sticking.
Step 3: Sauté the Chicken
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Include the prepared chicken, cooking until brilliant brown and completely cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes. Set aside on a plate.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
- Using the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Burn the shrimp, cooking for around 2 minutes on each side until they’re pink and dark. Set aside with the chicken.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
- Lower the heat, add butter, and let it melt. Include garlic and onions, cooking until delicate and fragrant, around 3 minutes.
- Pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently. Add the Parmesan cheese gradually, allowing it to melt and thicken the sauce.
Step 6: Combine and Serve
- Return the pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything to ensure even coating. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest for added brightness.
Expert Tips for Success
Making this Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta as delicious as possible comes down to a few helpful tricks and techniques. These expert tips will help ensure that your dish is restaurant-quality every time:
1. Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp
Shrimp can go from tender to rubbery in a matter of seconds, so keep a close eye while cooking. Sear them over medium-high heat for just 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and slightly golden around the edges. Once done, remove them immediately to prevent overcooking, as they’ll get a bit more warmth when you combine them with the pasta.
2. Season Generously and Layer Flavors
For the best-tasting dish, season your chicken and shrimp with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or spices before cooking. Layering these flavors early on creates a depth that enhances the final taste. Add more seasoning to taste as you cook the sauce—balance is key!
3. Use Fresh Garlic and Herbs for Enhanced Flavor
Fresh garlic and herbs (such as parsley or basil) add a more vibrant flavor than dried alternatives. Fresh garlic in the sauce adds a warm, nutty flavor, while freshly chopped herbs added at the end brighten the dish and add a pop of color.
4. Reserve Pasta Water to Adjust Sauce Consistency
One of the best-kept secrets in Italian cooking, pasta water contains starch that helps thicken the sauce and bind it to the pasta. Reserve about 1/2 cup before draining the pasta, and add a splash to your sauce to adjust its thickness and make it extra creamy. Start with a little and add more as needed to reach your desired consistency.
5. Let Parmesan Melt Slowly for a Smooth Sauce
When adding Parmesan, sprinkle it gradually while stirring to prevent clumps. This technique helps the cheese melt evenly, creating a smoother, creamier sauce that clings beautifully to the pasta. Use freshly grated Parmesan if possible, as it melts better and has a richer flavor than pre-grated cheese.
6. Add a Splash of Lemon for Brightness
A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of lemon zest at the end lifts the richness of the dish and adds a burst of freshness. This small step balances the creaminess and enhances the shrimp’s natural sweetness, making each bite even more delicious.
7. Reheat with a Splash of Milk or Cream
If you’re enjoying leftovers, heat them gently over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring the sauce back to its creamy consistency. This will prevent the sauce from drying out and maintain its smooth texture.
Following these tips will make a noticeable difference in the overall quality and flavor of your Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta, making it a memorable dish that you’ll be excited to make again and again.
Variations and Customizations
Spicy Twist
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, transforming your dish into a Cajun-style chicken and shrimp pasta is a game-changer. Start by generously seasoning the chicken and shrimp with Cajun spices, which typically include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme. Sauté them until golden and fragrant. To amplify the spice level, add red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers. This variation not only infuses the dish with bold, smoky flavors but also adds a fiery kick that’s perfect for spice lovers.
Low-Carb Option
If you’re looking to reduce carbs without sacrificing flavor, swap traditional pasta with healthier alternatives like spiralized zucchini or spaghetti squash. Spiralized zucchini, also known as zoodles, offers a light, fresh texture that pairs beautifully with creamy sauces. Spaghetti squash, on the other hand, has a slightly nutty flavor and stringy texture that mimics pasta when cooked. Simply roast the spaghetti squash, scrape out the strands with a fork, and serve them tossed in the creamy chicken and shrimp sauce. Both options are gluten-free, low-carb, and ideal for those on keto or paleo diets.
Dairy-Free
For a dairy-free version, heavy cream can be replaced with coconut cream, which adds a rich, velvety texture to the sauce while imparting a subtle sweetness. Omit the Parmesan cheese and opt for nutritional yeast instead; its nutty, cheesy flavor makes it a fantastic substitute without the use of dairy. Use plant-based butter or olive oil to sauté the chicken and shrimp to maintain the creaminess. This version ensures the dish is suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, all while keeping the indulgent essence intact.
By customizing your chicken and shrimp pasta to suit different palates or dietary needs, you can create a dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Fridge: Store scraps in an waterproof holder in the ice chest for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This pasta dish is best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce may separate upon thawing.
- Reheating: To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream to maintain the sauce’s creamy consistency and warm over low heat.
Serving Suggestions
- Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of this dish.
- Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread adds texture and pairs perfectly with the creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted broccoli or asparagus make delicious side dishes for a complete meal.
Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
Course: Dinner4
servings15
minutes20
minutes560
kcalCreamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta is a rich, comforting dish with tender chicken, plump shrimp, and a luscious garlic-Parmesan sauce. Perfect for a special night in or a casual dinner, it’s a quick recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
Ingredients
8 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
1/2 lb boneless chicken breast, thinly sliced
1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup onion, diced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley and lemon zest for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of water to a boil, add salt, and cook pasta until al dente. Drain, toss with a bit of olive oil, and set aside.
- Sauté the Chicken: Season chicken with salt and pepper.Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat; at that point, include chicken, cooking until brilliant brown and completely cooked.
around 5-7 minutes. Expel from skillet and set aside. - Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil. Cook the shrimp until pink and misty, approximately 2 minutes per side.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low, melt butter in the skillet, and add garlic and onions. Sauté until softened, then pour in the heavy cream, stirring frequently. Add Parmesan cheese and continue stirring until smooth and creamy.
- Combine and Serve: Return pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything in the sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of lemon zest before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to include ruddy pepper chips for a fiery kick.
- Substitute coconut cream for a dairy-free version.
- For a more slender sauce, include a sprinkle of saved pasta water.
- Nutrition Information: Calories: 560 | Protein: 35g | Carbs: 45g | Fat: 20g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to make chicken and shrimp recipe?
To make the chicken and shrimp recipe, start by cooking each protein separately to prevent overcooking, then combine them with a sauce or seasoning that complements both flavors.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, frozen shrimp is a convenient option. Thaw them thoroughly and pat them dry to ensure even cooking.
What pasta is best for this recipe?
Fettuccine, linguine, or penne are excellent choices, as they hold the creamy sauce well.
Related Recipe
- Garlic Herb Chicken and Shrimp Stir-Fry: A lighter, stir-fried alternative with garlic and fresh herbs.
- Spicy Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo: A spicy, southern-inspired twist with Cajun flavors.
- One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken and Shrimp: A zesty dish that combines lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs for a Mediterranean feel.
Conclusion
The chicken and shrimp recipe is truly special, bringing together the robust flavors of chicken and the delicate, sweet taste of shrimp in one delicious dish. Whether you’re enjoying creamy pasta or a simple stir fry, this combination never fails to impress. Try out this creamy chicken and shrimp pasta for a meal that’s easy, delicious, and sure to become a favorite.
Gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal in the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy cooking!