Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Alfredo

Layan

3 months ago

A plate of chicken and shrimp pasta Alfredo, featuring fettuccine pasta coated in a creamy Alfredo sauce with golden-brown chicken pieces and succulent shrimp. The dish is garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, presented on a rustic plate with a fork beside it. The setting is a warm kitchen table with soft natural lighting, highlighting the creamy texture and rich ingredients, creating an appetizing and comforting presentation.

Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Alfredo: Creamy, Delicious, and Ready in 30 Minutes

Looking for a rich and satisfying pasta dish that’s easy to whip up in under 30 minutes? This chicken and shrimp pasta Alfredo is a restaurant-quality meal that you can enjoy right in the comfort of your home. With juicy chicken, succulent shrimp, and a creamy Alfredo sauce, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even a special occasion. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why You’ll Love This Alfredo pasta with chicken and shrimp

Chicken and shrimp pasta Alfredo combines the best of both worlds: tender chicken and delicate shrimp in a creamy, velvety sauce. This dish not only offers great flavor but also packs in protein and nutrients. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare this delicious chicken and shrimp pasta Alfredo, gather the following ingredients:

1/2 lb. fettuccine or pasta of choice
1 chicken breast, diced
1/2 lb. shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 Tbsp olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 Tbsp butter
1/4 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

A delightful array of fresh ingredients for chicken and shrimp pasta Alfredo—fettuccine, tender chicken pieces, juicy shrimp, Parmesan cheese, and vibrant fresh herbs—all ready to create the ultimate creamy pasta dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Pasta
In a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine until al dente (usually 7-9 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Chicken and Shrimp
Add olive oil to a large skillet and let it warm up over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside. In the same pot, add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn opaque and pink. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (1-2 minutes). Gradually add the heavy cream, stirring occasionally, and heat until it reaches a gentle simmer.
Add the Cheese and Seasoning
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Continue to cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes.
Combine Everything Together
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated with the creamy Alfredo sauce. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve and Garnish
Transfer the pasta Alfredo to plates or a large serving dish. Top with freshly chopped parsley and an optional extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

Lighter Alfredo Sauce: For a lighter version, use half and half instead of heavy cream, or try a dairy-free alternative like almond milk with a cornstarch slurry for thickness.
Whole Wheat or Gluten-Free Pasta: Swap out traditional pasta for whole wheat or gluten-free options to suit dietary needs.
Add Vegetables: Incorporate mushrooms, spinach, or roasted red peppers for added flavor and nutrients.

Perfect Pairings for Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Alfredo

This pasta Alfredo is rich and creamy, so pairing it with lighter sides helps balance the meal. Some great options include:

A fresh Caesar salad for a classic Italian-inspired pairing.
Garlic bread or a crusty baguette for soaking up the creamy sauce.
Steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans for a nutritious, green touch.

Tips for Saving Time

Prep in Advance: Dice the chicken and peel the shrimp ahead of time to save minutes when cooking.
Use Store-Bought Alfredo Sauce: If you’re in a hurry, you can use a high-quality store-bought Alfredo sauce and focus on cooking the chicken and shrimp.
Pre-Cooked Shrimp: Opt for pre-cooked shrimp to reduce cooking time even further.

Nutritional Benefits of This Dish

This chicken and shrimp pasta Alfredo is not only flavorful but also offers several nutritional benefits:

High in Protein: The combination of chicken and shrimp makes this dish an excellent source of protein, promoting muscle growth and repair.
Calcium-Rich: The Parmesan cheese and cream provide a dose of calcium, which is essential for bone health.
Customizable for Health Goals: Adjust the ingredients, such as using whole wheat pasta or lighter cream alternatives, to fit your dietary preferences.

Try This Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Alfredo Tonight!

Creamy, savory, and bursting with flavor, this chicken and shrimp pasta Alfredo is a must-try recipe for anyone craving a comforting, homemade meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or hosting a dinner party, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t forget to share your version on social media and tag us for a chance to be featured!

Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe tonight, and be sure to check back for more Italian-inspired dishes that fit perfectly into your busy schedule!