Description
Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
Ingredients:
For the Chicken and Shrimp:
2 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless, cut into strips
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp paprika
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Pasta:
8 oz penne pasta (or your choice of pasta)
Salt for boiling water
For the Creamy Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup fresh spinach, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
Cook the Pasta:
Cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions in salted water. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Chicken and Shrimp:
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
Season the chicken strips with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
Cook the chicken in the skillet for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and fully cooked. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes until the sauce begins to thicken.
Stir in the Parmesan and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
Add the spinach (if using) and cook for another 1-2 minutes until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat in the creamy sauce.
Add the cooked chicken and shrimp back into the skillet, stirring everything together to combine.
Serve:
Serve the creamy chicken and shrimp pasta in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley. Enjoy this rich, indulgent dish!
This creamy pasta dish is loaded with flavorful chicken, succulent shrimp, and a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for a foolproof dish. First, prep all ingredients: chop the onion, mince garlic, grate Parmesan, and cut chicken. Begin boiling water for pasta. As pasta cooks, start the protein. Ensure your skillet is very hot before adding oil to get a good sear on the chicken. Cook chicken in a single layer, removing it just as it’s done. Cook shrimp quickly; they overcook easily. For the sauce, after sautéing onion and garlic, slowly add the cream and broth to prevent splattering. Let the sauce simmer gently to reduce and thicken before adding cheese off the heat, stirring until fully melted. Finally, combine all elements in the skillet to warm through.
Serving Suggestions
This rich pasta is a complete meal but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the extra sauce. For a wine pairing, choose a buttery Chardonnay or a crisp Pinot Grigio. To lighten the dish, garnish with extra fresh parsley or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.
How-to Summary
Boil and drain your pasta. Sear seasoned chicken strips, then cook shrimp in the same pan. Remove both. In that pan, make a sauce by sautéing onion and garlic, then simmering cream and broth. Melt in Parmesan and mozzarella. Toss the sauce with the pasta, chicken, and shrimp. Garnish and serve immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, but thaw completely in the refrigerator first and pat them very dry to ensure proper searing and to prevent a watery sauce.
How can I make this dish lighter? Substitute half the heavy cream with whole milk and use a cornstarch slurry to thicken. You can also increase the spinach and use a leaner protein like chicken breast.
What other pasta shapes work well? Fettuccine, linguine, or rigatoni are excellent choices. Shapes with ridges or holes hold the creamy sauce beautifully.
Can I prepare this ahead of time? The components can be prepped ahead, but combine and reheat gently just before serving, as the pasta will absorb the sauce and the shrimp may become rubbery.
My sauce is too thin. How do I fix it? Create a slurry by mixing 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water. Whisk it into the simmering sauce and cook for 1-2 minutes until thickened.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Cook shrimp just until pink and opaque. They will continue to cook when added back to the hot sauce.
- Crowding the Pan: Cook chicken in batches if needed. Overcrowding steams the meat instead of creating a flavorful sear.
- Adding Cheese to Boiling Sauce: Remove the skillet from heat or turn to low before adding cheese to prevent it from separating and becoming grainy.
- Using Pre-Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting. Grate your own Parmesan for a silkier sauce.
Conclusion
This Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that is entirely achievable at home. By following the detailed steps and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a decadent, comforting meal that is sure to impress. The combination of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a luxuriously cheesy sauce over pasta makes for a truly special dinner. Remember to garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Enjoy your culinary creation!