Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp is like a warm hug on a plate, bringing together creamy, dreamy flavors that dance joyfully on your taste buds. Picture tender shrimp and juicy chicken enveloped in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce that clings to every strand of pasta, creating a symphony of deliciousness that you won’t soon forget.
Now, if you’re anything like me, you often find yourself pondering the important questions of life while standing in front of an open fridge: “Should I order takeout or try cooking something?” Spoiler alert: this Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp will have you skipping the delivery guy and diving into culinary glory instead. Whether it’s date night, a family gathering, or just a Tuesday that needs a little sparkle, this dish is your ticket to flavor town.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp is super easy to whip up even on busy weeknights
- The rich creaminess combined with the savory proteins makes for a flavor explosion
- Its inviting appearance makes it a showstopper at any dinner table
- Perfectly versatile, you can customize it with your favorite veggies or switch proteins as desired!
Ingredients for Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Fettuccine Pasta: Use fresh or dried fettuccine; it holds the sauce beautifully and gives that classic Italian vibe.
- Boneless Chicken Breasts: Aim for about 1 pound; they’re perfect for sautéing and absorb flavors well.
- Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp (peeled and deveined); they add a delightful seafood twist that elevates the dish.
- Heavy Cream: This is the magic ingredient that makes the sauce rich and luscious—don’t skimp!
- Garlic: Fresh cloves are best; they infuse fantastic flavor into both your protein and sauce.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan enhances creaminess; opt for freshly grated for maximum flavor impact.
- Butter: A couple of tablespoons of unsalted butter will make everything better; trust me!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning at each step—don’t forget to taste!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about half a cup of the pasta water before draining—this liquid gold will help adjust your sauce later.
Step 2: Sauté Chicken
In a large skillet over medium heat, melt one tablespoon of butter. Season your boneless chicken breasts with salt and pepper then add them to the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from skillet and let rest before slicing into bite-sized pieces.
Step 3: Cook Shrimp
In the same skillet (because we love flavor!), add another tablespoon of butter along with minced garlic. After about one minute, toss in your shrimp. Cook until they turn pink (about 3-4 minutes). Remove from heat once done.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Lower the heat slightly; pour heavy cream into the skillet where you cooked your proteins. Stir continuously while adding grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If it’s too thick, use some reserved pasta water to thin it out.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Add cooked fettuccine back into the skillet along with sliced chicken and shrimp. Toss everything together until evenly coated in that delectable Alfredo sauce.
Step 6: Serve It Right
Transfer your creamy masterpiece onto plates or into bowls. Garnish with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy! Trust me, everyone will be asking how they can get more!
Now you have an irresistible dish of Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp ready to impress! Enjoy every creamy bite while reveling in your culinary triumph—you’ve earned it!
You Must Know
- This Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp is more than just a creamy delight; it transforms a regular dinner into an unforgettable feast
- With its rich flavors and textures, it’s perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in
Perfecting the Cooking Process
To achieve the best results when making Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp, start by searing the chicken first. While the chicken cooks, boil the pasta and prepare the rich Alfredo sauce simultaneously. This efficient sequence ensures everything is hot and ready to serve at once.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize your Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp by swapping out the protein for alternatives like scallops or tofu. You can also experiment with seasonings, adding garlic powder or fresh herbs for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftovers of your Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a smoother sauce; pre-packaged cheese can clump
- Avoid overcooking the pasta; it should be al dente for the best texture
- Remember to save some pasta water; it helps adjust sauce consistency later
I still remember the first time I made this dish for my friends. Their eyes lit up as they took their first bites, and someone even declared it “better than takeout!” That moment solidified my love for cooking!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp?
To create a delicious Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp, gather the following ingredients: fettuccine or your preferred pasta, boneless chicken breast, raw shrimp, butter, heavy cream, garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Fresh parsley can also enhance the dish’s flavor and presentation. These ingredients combine to create a rich and creamy sauce that perfectly coats the pasta while highlighting the succulent proteins.
How long does it take to prepare Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp?
Preparing Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes cooking the pasta, sautéing the chicken and shrimp, and making the creamy Alfredo sauce. The quick cooking time makes this dish perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I customize my Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp?
Absolutely! You can customize your Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp by adding vegetables such as broccoli or spinach for extra nutrition. Additionally, consider using different types of seafood like scallops or crab if you prefer. Adjusting the spice level with red pepper flakes or incorporating herbs like basil or thyme can also enhance the flavors according to your taste.
Is Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp suitable for meal prep?
Yes, Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp is an excellent choice for meal prep. You can cook the ingredients in advance and store them separately in airtight containers. When ready to eat, simply reheat everything together on the stove or in the microwave. This dish maintains its flavor well when stored properly, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Conclusion for Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp :
Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp is a delightful dish that combines creamy sauce with tender proteins for a satisfying meal. By following simple steps to cook your favorite pasta, sauté your proteins, and create a rich sauce, you can enjoy this flavorful recipe any night of the week. With its customizable nature and quick preparation time, this dish is perfect for both regular dinners and special occasions. Embrace this classic comfort food that everyone will love!
Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp is a creamy, indulgent dish that delights your palate with every bite. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender shrimp and juicy chicken in a rich Alfredo sauce, all tossed with fettuccine pasta for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb boneless chicken breasts
- 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the fettuccine according to package instructions; reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
- In a large skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then sauté until golden brown (6-7 minutes per side). Remove, let rest, and slice.
- In the same skillet, add remaining butter and garlic; cook until fragrant (about 1 minute). Add shrimp and cook until pink (3-4 minutes), then remove from heat.
- Lower heat and pour in heavy cream. Stir in Parmesan cheese until melted; use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce consistency.
- Combine cooked fettuccine, chicken, and shrimp in the skillet; toss to coat with sauce.
- Serve garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (300g)
- Calories: 750
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 40g
- Saturated Fat: 25g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 220mg
