If you’re craving a rich, creamy pasta dish that combines the best of land and sea, chicken shrimp Alfredo is your go-to recipe. This dish blends tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a luscious Alfredo sauce that coats every strand of pasta perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is straightforward and utterly satisfying. Let’s dive into how you can make chicken shrimp Alfredo that tastes like it came from a restaurant but is made right in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make chicken shrimp Alfredo, gather these key ingredients:
– Proteins: 1 lb chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces) and 1 lb raw shrimp (peeled, deveined, tails off)
– Pasta: Fettuccine is traditional, but you can use penne or any long pasta you prefer
– Alfredo Sauce:
– Butter (about 2 tablespoons)
– Garlic (3-5 cloves, minced for that aromatic punch)
– Flour (1 tablespoon to thicken the sauce)
– Dry white wine or chicken stock (¼ cup) for deglazing and flavor depth
– Heavy cream (2 cups for a rich, creamy texture)
– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (1 cup, plus more for garnish)
– Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon)
– Seasonings: Salt, pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and crushed red chili flakes (optional for a little heat)
– Olive or avocado oil for cooking
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Shrimp Alfredo
1. Prepare the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside while you prepare the proteins and sauce.
2. Cook the Chicken and Shrimp
– Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
– Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder.
– Sauté the chicken for about 5 minutes on each side until cooked through and golden. Remove and set aside.
– Add another tablespoon of oil to the skillet, season the shrimp similarly, and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
3. Make the Alfredo Sauce
– In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
– Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
– Sprinkle in the flour and stir continuously for another minute to cook out the raw flavor.
– Slowly pour in the white wine (or chicken stock) while stirring to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
– Pour in the heavy cream and add Italian seasoning. Stir and bring the sauce to a gentle simmer.
– Once simmering, add the Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
4. Combine Everything
– Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce.
– Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together until the noodles are well coated and the proteins are heated through.
– Let it cook together for a minute or two so the flavors meld beautifully.
5. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top. Serve immediately while warm for the best experience.
Tips for Success
– Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of pre-grated for a smoother, creamier sauce.
– Don’t overcook the shrimp; they cook quickly and become rubbery if left too long.
– If you want a little kick, add crushed red chili flakes to the sauce.
– For an easier shortcut, rotisserie chicken can replace fresh chicken; just stir it in at the end to warm through.
– A large skillet helps combine the pasta, proteins, and sauce evenly.
Why This Recipe Works So Well
Chicken shrimp Alfredo strikes a perfect balance between flavors and textures. The chicken brings hearty, savory notes, while the shrimp adds a delicate sweetness from the sea. The creamy Alfredo sauce, rich with butter, cream, and Parmesan, ties everything together with its silky texture. The seasoning layers—paprika, garlic, Italian herbs—build complexity without overpowering the dish. Plus, it’s a one-skillet meal that comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy cooks who want something impressive yet easy.
Enjoy your homemade chicken shrimp Alfredo with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress!
Chicken shrimp Alfredo is a creamy, delicious dish that anyone can master at home with just a few simple steps and ingredients. Give it a try and savor the perfect blend of flavors and textures in every bite.