Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Perfection
This Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy recipe is a lifesaver Tender chicken shrimp in a rich Parmesan sauce ready in under 40 mins Your new goto weeknight dinner ... Healthy Eats
Table of Contents
Recipe Introduction
Quick Hook
Ever crave something creamy, comforting, and a little bit fancy? This Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy recipe will hit the spot. It's packed with flavor and surprisingly simple to make.
Brief Overview
This recipe brings together chicken, shrimp, and pasta. It’s bathed in a creamy Parmesan sauce. Think Italian comfort food with a little something extra.
It's ready in under 40 minutes. It yields 4 servings, perfect for a family dinner or a date night.
Main Benefits
Honestly, this recipe is pure indulgence. The health benefit here? A happy tummy. But hey, it has protein! It's also a great way to impress someone without spending hours in the kitchen.
What makes this Chicken and Shrimp Pasta special is the rich, homemade sauce. You know? It's much better than anything from a jar.
Okay, let's get cooking! I'll channel my inner Gordon Ramsay (minus the yelling, hopefully) to find the perfect blend.
Creamy? Check! Flavorful? Double-check!
This is no ordinary pasta dish. This is Creamy Parmesan pasta with chicken and shrimp , and it's about to become your new favorite weeknight meal.
Trust me on this one, even your fussiest eaters will be asking for seconds. I mean who can say no to pasta?
Craving something a little bit more fancy? This is the perfect dinner idea!
Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Perfection Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ready To Get Cooking?
The Ingredient Lineup
Pasta is essential . You will need 8 oz of fettuccine or penne. I personally love fettuccine for this. It holds the sauce so well! For protein you will need 1/2 lb of chicken breast, sliced thin.
You will also need 1/2 lb of shrimp, peeled and deveined. Garlic is necessary! 3 cloves, minced, to be exact.
Don't skimp on the garlic! Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, and white wine are a must. Heavy cream and Parmesan will tie it all together in a creamy sauce.
Unsalted butter and fresh parsley, will create an experience. Oh my gosh I almost forgot, optional, cherry tomatoes.
Pro-tip: Fresh ingredients make all the difference!
Ingredients & Equipment: Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
Okay, let's get cooking! Making Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy doesn't need a ton of fancy stuff. This recipe is all about getting maximum flavor with minimal fuss.
I'll channel my inner Gordon Ramsay (minus the yelling, hopefully!) to find the perfect blend. Honestly, this Chicken and shrimp pasta recipe easy is so simple, even my nan could nail it.
Let's Gather Our Goodies
Here's what you'll need to make this best creamy chicken and shrimp pasta recipe . Don't worry, I'll keep it real. I'm not about measuring every single milligram.
Main Ingredients
- Fettuccine or penne pasta: 8 oz (225g) . Quality pasta makes a difference. Look for bronze-die cut pasta for better sauce absorption.
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons . Extra virgin olive oil.
- Boneless, skinless chicken breast: 1/2 lb (225g) , sliced thin. Fresh chicken should be pink. Avoid chicken that's pale or smells off.
- Shrimp: 1/2 lb (225g) , peeled and deveined. Get good quality, wild-caught if you can.
- Garlic: 3 cloves , minced. Fresh garlic is a must.
- Dry white wine: 1/4 cup (60ml) , such as Sauvignon Blanc or chicken broth.
- Heavy cream: 1 cup (240ml) . This is what makes it creamy .
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50g) , grated. Use real Parmesan, not the stuff in the green can!
- Unsalted butter: 1 tablespoon .
- Fresh parsley: 2 tablespoons , chopped (optional).
- Cherry tomatoes or baby spinach: 1 cup (150g) (optional).
Seasoning Notes: Flavor Power-Ups
This is where the magic happens! You can't have amazing Seafood pasta recipes creamy or Creamy seafood pasta bake without some amazing spices
- Italian seasoning: 1 teaspoon .
- Salt and black pepper: to taste.
- Crushed red pepper flakes: 1/2 teaspoon (optional). Adds a little kick.
Essential spice combinations: Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme, rosemary). Flavor enhancers and aromatics are garlic and Parmesan. Quick substitution options: If you're out of Italian seasoning, use a mix of dried oregano and basil.
For a Shrimp and chicken pasta in garlic cream sauce , don't skimp on the garlic!
Equipment Check: Keep It Simple
You don't need a Michelin-star kitchen to cook like a pro. These essential tools will do the trick. You can quickly make Quick chicken and shrimp pasta using these items.
- Large pot: For boiling pasta.
- Large skillet or frying pan: For cooking chicken and shrimp, and making the sauce.
- Colander: For draining pasta.
- Cutting board and chef's knife: For prepping ingredients.
Common household alternatives: If you don't have a large skillet, a Dutch oven works too.
Okay, let's get cooking! I'll channel my inner Gordon Ramsay (minus the yelling) to find the perfect blend. This Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta is a weeknight winner!
Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Perfection
Craving something seriously comforting but quick? This Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy recipe is your answer! We're talking tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, all swimming in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce.
It's basically a culinary hug. The best part? It's easier than you think! It is easy because it only requires basic cooking skills like boiling pasta, sautéing protein, and making a simple sauce.
Prep Like a Pro: Essential Mise en Place
Before we even think about turning on the hob, let's get organized. Chop 1/2 lb (225g) of chicken breast into thin slices.
Peel and devein 1/2 lb (225g) of shrimp. Mince those 3 cloves of garlic like your life depends on it! Grate 1/2 cup (50g) of Parmesan cheese.
Halve 1 cup (150g) of cherry tomatoes. Having everything prepped beforehand makes cooking a breeze. Trust me.
From Hob to Heaven: The Step-by-Step
- Pasta Time: Get 8 oz (225g) of fettuccine or penne pasta cooking in salted, boiling water until al dente. Don't forget to save about 1/2 cup of that starchy pasta water. Seriously, don't ! Drain the rest.
- Chicken Sizzle: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and half of the Italian seasoning 1 teaspoon . Cook until golden brown and cooked through to 165° F ( 74° C) , about 5- 6 minutes . Set aside.
- Shrimp Scampi: Add another 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Season the shrimp with the remaining Italian seasoning and a pinch of red pepper flakes 1/2 teaspoon (if you're feeling brave!). Cook until pink and opaque, about 2- 3 minutes per side. Overcooked shrimp is a crime! Set aside with the chicken.
- Sauce Magic: Reduce the heat to medium. Add that minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds . Deglaze the pan with 1/4 cup (60ml) of white wine (or chicken broth if you are being careful). Scrape up all those yummy browned bits from the bottom. Reduce for 1 minute . Stir in 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream and 1 tablespoon of butter. Bring to a simmer.
- Cheese Please! Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. This is where the magic happens.
- Party Time: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss to coat everything in that glorious sauce. If it's too thick, add some of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creamy consistency. Add those cherry tomatoes 1 cup (150g) and cook for 2 minutes .
- Serve Like a Star: Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve immediately, and prepare for applause!
Creamy Parmesan pasta with chicken and shrimp Pro Tips
- Pasta Water is Your Friend: Seriously, that reserved pasta water is liquid gold. Use it to adjust the consistency of your sauce.
- Don't Overcook the Shrimp: I'm saying it again! It's crucial. Overcooked shrimp is rubbery and sad.
- Best creamy chicken and shrimp pasta recipe Make-Ahead Hack: You can actually make the sauce a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat it gently before adding the pasta and protein.
Recipe Notes: The Nitty-Gritty
Okay, let's get cooking! Before you dive into this Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy recipe, I've got some insider tips for you.
Think of these as my little secrets to pasta perfection. Seriously, these suggestions will take your dish from good to amazing .
I'll channel my inner Gordon Ramsay (minus the yelling, hopefully) to find the perfect blend.
Plating and Presentation: "Ooh La La!"
Honestly, presentation matters. Even if you're just cooking for yourself. To make your Creamy Parmesan pasta with chicken and shrimp look extra special, swirl the pasta into nests on the plate.
Then, arrange the chicken and shrimp artfully on top. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a generous grating of Parmesan takes it from Tuesday night dinner to restaurant quality.
Serve it alongside some crusty garlic bread.
Creamy Storage Solutions: Fridge and Freezer
Leftovers? Lucky you! Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta is pretty darn good the next day.
- Refrigeration: Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat. You might need to add a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwaving works too, but be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
I wouldn't recommend freezing this recipe, as the cream sauce can separate and become grainy when thawed.
Adapting the Recipe: Your Way, Every Day
Want to tweak this Chicken and Shrimp Pasta recipe easy ? No problem. Here are a few ideas:
- Dairy-Free: Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Honestly, you won’t even notice the difference.
- Seasonal Swaps: Swap out the cherry tomatoes or spinach for seasonal veggies like asparagus in the spring or butternut squash in the fall. Use ingredients that are local and fresh.
- Spicy Boost: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to kick up the heat.
Nutrition: Fueling Your Body and Soul
Let's get some simplified nutrition! Per serving, this Best creamy chicken and shrimp pasta recipe clocks in around 650 calories.
You are getting a good dose of protein (45g) from the chicken and shrimp. There are fats (35g) from the cream and cheese, and carbs (40g) for energy.
It's not just about the numbers, though. This dish is packed with flavor and satisfaction. Who can argue with some good comfort food? Plus, shrimp and chicken are lean protein sources.
The recipe could easily qualify for Seafood pasta recipes creamy .
So there you have it. The Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy dish. Now go forth and create something amazing. Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own. Happy cooking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy recipe ahead of time?
While this Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep some components ahead of time to save time later. You can slice the chicken, peel the shrimp, and even make the sauce a day in advance. Just store everything separately and combine it all when you're ready to serve. Think of it like prepping your ingredients for a TV cooking show challenge – everything ready to go!
How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery in this dish?
Nobody wants rubbery shrimp! The key is to not overcook them. Shrimp cook very quickly, so only sauté them for about 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn pink and opaque. They'll continue to cook a bit once added to the sauce, so it’s better to undercook them slightly than overcook them. Remember, like a perfectly brewed cuppa, timing is everything.
What are some good substitutions for heavy cream in this Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy recipe to make it lighter?
If you're watching your waistline, you can definitely lighten up this Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta. A good substitute for heavy cream is half-and-half. However, the sauce will be a bit thinner. You could also use a combination of milk and a tablespoon of cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. Think of it like choosing between full-fat and semi-skimmed milk – it affects the richness, but you still get the essential creaminess.
How long does leftover Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta last in the fridge, and how should I reheat it?
Leftover Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, to prevent splattering and uneven heating. Don’t let it dry out, or it'll be drier than a digestive biscuit left out of the tin!
Can I add vegetables to this Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta?
Absolutely! Adding vegetables is a brilliant way to boost the nutritional value and flavor of this dish. Cherry tomatoes, spinach, broccoli florets, bell peppers, and mushrooms all work wonderfully. Simply sauté them alongside the garlic before adding the wine and cream, or toss them in with the pasta during the last few minutes of cooking. It's like giving your pasta dish a healthy makeover – even Jamie Oliver would approve!
I'm not a fan of white wine. Is there anything else I can use to deglaze the pan when making the sauce for this Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Creamy dish?
Not a problem at all! If white wine isn't your thing, you can easily substitute it with chicken broth or vegetable broth. The purpose of deglazing is to loosen all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan, so either broth will work perfectly. You can also use a squeeze of lemon juice for a touch of acidity. Think of it as swapping out one ingredient for another – as long as it serves the same purpose, you're golden!