Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp
My love for pasta dishes began during family gatherings where the hearty smell of Alfredo sauce lingered in the kitchen, pulling everyone together. One particularly memorable evening, my grandmother prepared her famous Alfredo Pasta topped with perfectly cooked chicken and succulent shrimp. As we gathered around the table, the laughter and chatter blended with the aroma of savory cream, Parmesan, and garlic, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere.
That night, I knew I had discovered something special a recipe that could turn an ordinary day into a delightful occasion. This Best Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp recipe embodies that nostalgia, serving not just as a meal but as a cherished memory in every creamy bite.
What truly makes this Alfredo dish special is the decadent texture of the sauce, combined with the savory flavors of the chicken and shrimp elevating it to a comforting dinner worth celebrating. There’s something genuinely magical about the way it brings family and friends together to share laughter and stories over a delicious meal.
What Makes This Recipe Special
This Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that delights the senses! Rich and creamy, the dish pairs al dente pasta with tender chicken and shrimp, all enveloped in a velvety sauce that is surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions when you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a definitive family favorite a dish that will soon become your go-to comfort food!
What truly sets this recipe apart is its flexibility. You can easily adjust it to accommodate dietary preferences by swapping proteins or incorporating seasonal vegetables, making it a versatile choice for all. Whether you serve it on a quiet evening at home or at a gathering with loved ones, this Alfredo Pasta is sure to win hearts and satisfy cravings!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese (freshly grated for best flavor)
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta (or your choice of pasta)
- Water (for boiling)
- Salt (for seasoning the pasta water)
For the Protein:
- 1 large chicken breast (boneless, skinless, diced)
- ½ pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Note: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in flavor, so consider using fresh garlic and good-quality Parmesan. You can substitute the pasta for a gluten-free option if needed.
How to make The Best Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally. Once cooked, reserve about half a cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
Step 4: Prepare the Alfredo Sauce
In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Add the cooked chicken and shrimp back to the skillet along with the drained pasta. Toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.
Step 6: Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a dash of fresh parsley for garnish if desired.
Tips & Recipe Variations
- Customize Your Protein: Swap chicken and shrimp for other proteins such as scallops, salmon, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to add veggies like spinach, asparagus, or sun-dried tomatoes to incorporate a burst of color and nutrition.
- Make It Lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, and consider reducing the cheese quantity slightly.
- Store and Reheat: The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to help revive the sauce.
Best Ways to Serve
Serve the Alfredo Pasta hot and fresh, garnished with additional Parmesan and freshly cracked black pepper. Pair it with a crisp side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce. A nice glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio, can enhance the meal even further. For an extra touch, consider offering garlic bread or a side of steamed seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded dinner.
Common Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While the best experience is to enjoy it fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them just before serving.
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the Alfredo Pasta, but the cream sauce may not thaw perfectly. Store in an airtight container and consume within two months.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
Half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a nondairy substitute like cashew cream can work as alternatives, though the flavor may vary.
How do I prevent the dish from becoming watery?
Ensure that you don’t add too much pasta water when mixing, and aim for a thick sauce before adding the pasta.
Can I make this vegetarian or dairy-free?
To make it vegetarian, replace the chicken and use a vegetable-based Alfredo sauce. For a dairy-free version, opt for coconut cream and nutritional yeast in lieu of cheese.
Each time I prepare this Best Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp, it takes me back to warmth, laughter, and an unwavering sense of togetherness. As you share this dish with your loved ones, I hope it serves as a bridge to create your own cherished memories. Dive in, enjoy the creamy goodness, and don’t forget to share your experiences because a meal shared is a memory made!
“This Alfredo Pasta is an absolute game-changer! It’s creamy and indulgent without being overwhelmingly rich, and the shrimp adds a delightful touch. I will definitely be making it again!” – Sarah T.
Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp
Ingredients
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente, typically around 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once cooked, reserve about half a cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast, seasoned with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
- In the same skillet, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until slightly thickened.
- Reduce the heat to low and gradually whisk in the grated Parmesan cheese until smooth.
- If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Add the cooked chicken and shrimp back to the skillet along with the drained pasta.
- Toss everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately with an extra sprinkle of Parmesan and a dash of fresh parsley for garnish if desired.
Notes
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