How to Make Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe – A Delicious and Easy Meal for Beginners
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Imagine coming home after a long day, craving something hearty yet easy to prepare. This quick shrimp chicken pasta recipe is your answer. Packed with protein, rich flavors, and a touch of elegance, it’s perfect for weeknights or impressing dinner guests without spending hours in the kitchen.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Shrimp Chicken Pasta Recipe
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Pasta (penne or fettuccine) | 12 oz | Cooked al dente |
| Shrimp | 1 lb | Peeled and deveined |
| Chicken breast | 2 pieces | Cut into bite-sized pieces |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Garlic cloves | 3 cloves | Minced |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | For a creamy sauce |
| Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup | Grated, for sauce and garnish |
| Cherry tomatoes | 1 cup | Halved, for added flavor and freshness |
| Spinach (optional) | 1 cup | Adds color and nutrients |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Adjust seasoning as needed |
| Red pepper flakes | 1/2 tsp | Optional, for a hint of spice |
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Shrimp Chicken Pasta
Preparation
- Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Prepare the Proteins:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté chicken pieces until fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook shrimp until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Cooking the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic:
- Using the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Make the Creamy Sauce:
- Stir in heavy cream and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes. Add grated Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until the sauce thickens.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly. Mix in the cooked chicken, shrimp, cherry tomatoes, and spinach if using.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if the sauce is too thick.
Tips and Variations for Shrimp Chicken Pasta
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp, chicken, and Parmesan make a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Don’t Overcook Proteins: Overcooking shrimp or chicken can make them tough. Watch closely while sautéing.
- Balance the Sauce: Add pasta water gradually to get the desired creaminess without making the dish too runny.
Variations
- Add Veggies: Incorporate broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
- Swap the Protein: Use scallops, sausage, or even tofu for a different twist.
- Make it Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of cayenne for heat lovers.
How to Serve and Store Shrimp Chicken Pasta
Serving Suggestions
- Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a restaurant-quality presentation.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad to round out the meal.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to refresh the sauce.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
FAQs About Quick Shrimp Chicken Pasta Recipe
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp ?
Yes, pre-cooked shrimp can save time. Add it to the dish during the final mixing step to prevent overcooking.
What’s the best type of pasta for this recipe ?
Penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well. Choose your favorite or whatever you have on hand.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free ?
Absolutely! Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative, and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
How do I make this dish healthier ?
Use whole-grain pasta, reduce the amount of cream, and load up on veggies like spinach or kale.
Conclusion
This quick shrimp chicken pasta recipe is the perfect blend of convenience and gourmet flavors. With simple ingredients and easy steps, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Don’t wait to give this dish a try—it might just become your new favorite comfort food.
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