Description
Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo with Bacon
A rich and decadent pasta dish combining juicy grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, crispy bacon, and creamy Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked spaghetti. This indulgent meal is a flavor-packed delight!
Ingredients
:
For the Chicken:
2 chicken breasts, seasoned with salt, pepper, and garlic powder
1 tbsp olive oil
For the Shrimp:
12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Alfredo Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta:
12 oz (340g) spaghetti or fettuccine
4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
:
Cook the Pasta
:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Cook the Chicken
:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken breasts for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove, slice, and set aside.
Sauté the Shrimp
:
In the same skillet, melt butter and olive oil. Season shrimp with salt and pepper, then cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and tender. Set aside.
Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
:
In a saucepan, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, stirring, until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish
:
Toss the cooked pasta in the Alfredo sauce. Top with sliced chicken, sautéed shrimp, and crumbled bacon.
Garnish and Serve
:
Sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Pro Tip
:
Add a squeeze of lemon juice over the shrimp for a zesty burst of flavor!
This Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a hearty, satisfying dish perfect for any special occasion or indulgent dinner night. Enjoy every creamy, savory bite!
Step-by-Step Guide
Begin by preparing all ingredients: season chicken, peel shrimp, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and cook/crumble bacon. Use a large pot for pasta and a large skillet for proteins to manage space. Start boiling salted water for pasta first. While it heats, cook the chicken in the skillet. Once chicken is done and resting, cook the shrimp in the same pan to capture all the flavorful bits. While shrimp cook, your pasta water should be ready; add the spaghetti. As pasta boils, start the Alfredo sauce in a separate saucepan. Time it so the sauce thickens just as the pasta finishes draining. This synchronized approach ensures every component is hot and ready for assembly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this rich pasta immediately in warm, shallow bowls to keep it hot. Pair it with a crisp, acidic side to cut through the creaminess, such as a simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette. For beverages, a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc complements the dish perfectly. If serving for a dinner party, consider plating individual portions with careful placement of chicken, shrimp, and bacon for an elegant presentation.
How-to Summary
To make Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo with Bacon: 1) Boil and drain spaghetti. 2) Pan-sear seasoned chicken breasts, then slice. 3) Sauté shrimp in the same pan. 4) Create Alfredo sauce by simmering butter, garlic, cream, and Parmesan. 5) Toss pasta with sauce, then top with chicken, shrimp, and crumbled bacon. 6) Garnish with fresh parsley.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I prepare any components ahead of time? Yes, you can cook the bacon, season the chicken and shrimp, and mince garlic ahead. Store separately in the fridge. Cook everything fresh for best texture, especially the sauce.
What’s the best substitute for heavy cream? For a slightly lighter version, half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be less rich and thick. For a dairy-free option, full-fat canned coconut cream is a good alternative.
How do I prevent my Alfredo sauce from breaking or becoming grainy? Ensure you use freshly grated Parmesan (not pre-shredded, which contains anti-caking agents) and add it off the direct heat. Keep the sauce on a gentle simmer and avoid boiling vigorously after adding the cheese.
Can I use frozen shrimp? Absolutely. Thaw them completely in the refrigerator overnight or under cold running water. Pat them very dry with paper towels before seasoning and cooking to ensure a good sear.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce, as it will thicken when chilled.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they become rubbery quickly—2-3 minutes per side is usually sufficient. Do not use pre-shredded Parmesan cheese, as it often doesn’t melt smoothly into the sauce. Ensure your pasta is al dente, as it will continue to soften slightly when tossed with the warm sauce. Finally, do not neglect to salt your pasta water generously; it’s a primary seasoning opportunity for the noodles themselves.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo with Bacon is the epitome of a luxurious, restaurant-quality meal you can create at home. By following the detailed steps and tips, you can master the timing and techniques needed to bring these bold flavors together in perfect harmony. It’s a surefire dish to impress at any gathering or to turn an ordinary evening into a special culinary experience. Enjoy the delicious rewards of your effort.