How to Make Easy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe Step by Step for Beginners
When was the last time you served a meal so flavorful that everyone at the table couldn’t stop raving about it? Imagine a dish that effortlessly blends tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and velvety pasta, all brought together by a creamy, savory sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a romantic dinner, this chicken and shrimp pasta recipe is your ticket to a delightful culinary experience.
Table of Contents
What You’ll Need to Make This Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
To prepare this masterpiece, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in creating a harmonious dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
| Pasta (spaghetti, fettuccine) | 12 oz | Cooked al dente |
| Chicken breast | 2 (about 1 lb) | Cubed or thinly sliced |
| Shrimp | 1 lb | Peeled and deveined |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
| Garlic cloves | 4 | Minced |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | For the creamy sauce |
| Parmesan cheese | ½ cup | Grated |
| Fresh parsley | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | Season as preferred |
Optional Add-Ins: If you want to elevate your pasta dish further, consider tossing in some spinach, cherry tomatoes, or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
How to Make Chicken and Shrimp Pasta in 30 Minutes
Cooking this dish is easier than you think. Follow these step-by-step instructions to whip up a meal that looks and tastes gourmet.
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Begin by preparing the pasta as directed on the package. Be sure to reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining, as this will help bind the sauce later. While the pasta cooks, pat the shrimp dry and season both the shrimp and chicken with a pinch of salt and pepper.
2. Cook the Chicken
Warm a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces, cooking them until they’re golden brown and cooked through—this usually takes about 6-8 minutes. When cooked, take the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Shrimp
In the same skillet, heat another tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until they are pink and opaque. Avoid overcooking them to keep their texture tender and juicy. Set the shrimp aside with the chicken.
4. Make the Sauce
Using the same skillet, lower the heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add the Parmesan cheese gradually, stirring until it melts and the sauce thickens.
5. Combine and Garnish
Add the cooked pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat it evenly. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of the reserved pasta water. Return the chicken and shrimp to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.
Pro Tips for a Flawless Dish
To make your chicken and shrimp pasta truly unforgettable, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose the Right Pasta: Long pasta varieties like fettuccine or linguine are perfect for creamy sauces, as they hold the sauce beautifully.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Cooking it al dente ensures it doesn’t become mushy when tossed in the sauce.
- Season As You Go: Layering flavors at each step is key to a well-balanced dish.
- Experiment with Veggies: Adding spinach, mushrooms, or roasted bell peppers can introduce new dimensions of flavor and texture.
Creative Twists on Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
This recipe is wonderfully versatile. Here are a few variations to cater to different tastes and dietary needs:
- Spicy Cajun Style: Sprinkle Cajun seasoning on the chicken and shrimp for a bold, smoky flavor. Add a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce for extra heat.
- Tomato-Based Option: Swap the heavy cream for marinara sauce to create a lighter, tangy version of this dish.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash in place of traditional pasta for a keto-friendly meal.
What to Serve with Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
Pairing this dish with the right sides can elevate your meal to restaurant-quality:
- A crisp side salad with a light vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.
- Warm, buttery garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- For a beverage, a glass of Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the dish beautifully.
Your Questions About Chicken and Shrimp Pasta, Answered!
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely!Be sure to thaw them completely before cooking. You can place them in the refrigerator overnight or rinse them under cold water for a faster method.
What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Reheat your pasta gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce’s creamy texture. Avoid microwaving, as it can overcook the shrimp.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the components separately. Store the cooked pasta, sauce, and protein in separate containers, and combine them just before serving for the freshest taste.
Final Thoughts and Call-to-Action
There you have it—a simple yet luxurious chicken and shrimp pasta recipe that’s sure to become a household favorite. It’s a dish that caters to busy schedules, satisfies diverse palates, and delivers a gourmet experience without the hassle.