chicken and shrimp pasta

How to Make Chicken and Shrimp Pasta: A Step-by-Step Guide

Byquickmealrecipes.com

As the smell of garlic and sizzling shrimp fills the kitchen, I feel a wave of nostalgia. My mom’s chicken and shrimp pasta was a favorite at family dinners. It was a dish that brought us all together, with its rich sauce, tender chicken, and juicy shrimp.

Now, as a busy parent, I want to share this recipe with you. I hope it brings the same joy and satisfaction to your family as it has to mine for years.

Creamy and Delicious Chicken and Shrimp Pasta

Try this creamy chicken and shrimp pasta dish for a taste of heaven. It combines a rich Parmesan sauce with tender chicken and juicy shrimp. This recipe is a perfect blend of flavors in one delicious meal.

Combining the Best of Both Worlds: Chicken and Shrimp

Chicken strips and shrimp are cooked to perfection in a creamy sauce. This italian-inspired cuisine is not just beautiful but also full of flavor. It’s perfect for those who love creamy pasta dishes and seafood pasta recipes.

Nutrition FactsPer Serving
Servings4
Calories749
Calories from Fat351
Total Fat39g (60% DV)
Saturated Fat21g (131% DV)
Cholesterol260mg (87% DV)
Sodium490mg (21% DV)
Potassium956mg (27% DV)
Carbohydrates50g (17% DV)
Fiber4g (17% DV)
Sugar4g (4% DV)
Protein50g (100% DV)
Vitamin A3383IU (68% DV)
Vitamin C5mg (6% DV)
Calcium228mg (23% DV)
Iron3mg (17% DV)

This chicken and shrimp pasta is not just good-looking but also healthy. It’s creamy, savory, and packed with chicken and shrimp. It’s a meal that will make everyone happy.

Ingredients and Preparation Time

To make a tasty chicken and shrimp pasta dish, you need the right ingredients. You’ll want dry trottole pasta, extra-virgin olive oil, garlic, and dried basil. Red pepper flakes and black pepper add flavor. Chicken breasts and medium-sized shrimp are the proteins.

For the creamy sauce, you’ll need unsalted butter, cream cheese, milk, and heavy cream. Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese is key. Pesto and sun-dried tomatoes add extra flavor.

Gathering the Essential Ingredients for Chicken and Shrimp Pasta

  • 1 package of dry trottole pasta
  • 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
  • 4 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon of dried basil
  • 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 1 lb of medium-sized shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces of cream cheese
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 1 cup of heavy cream
  • 1 cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
  • 1/4 cup of prepared pesto
  • 1/2 cup of sun-dried tomatoes, chopped

Prep Time: 30 mins, Cook Time: 25 mins, Total Time: 55 mins

With all the ingredients ready, you’re set to make a delicious chicken and shrimp pasta. It’s great for quick dinners or when you’re hosting. The whole process takes about 55 minutes.

Cooking the Pasta and Preparing the Base

To start your chicken and shrimp pasta, boil a large pot of water with a bit of salt. Once boiling, add the trottole pasta. Cook it until it’s just tender, about 8-10 minutes. Then, drain the pasta and put it in a bowl, ready for the sauce.

Boiling and Draining the Trottole Pasta

Trottole pasta is great for this creamy dish. Its spiral shape catches the sauce well, making every bite flavorful. Cook the pasta as directed, usually 8-10 minutes, until it’s al dente.

Heating Olive Oil, Garlic, and Spices

While the pasta cooks, heat a skillet over medium. Add some olive oil. Then, mince the garlic and sauté it in the oil. Add dried basil, red pepper flakes, and black pepper. This mix will flavor your pasta base.

“The key to a truly delicious chicken and shrimp pasta dish is in the preparation of the base. By infusing the oil with garlic and spices, you’re setting the stage for a flavor-packed meal that will have your family coming back for seconds.”

Sautéing the Chicken and Shrimp

Now that you’ve set up your dish, it’s time to add the chicken and shrimp. This step is key for adding bold, savory flavors. These flavors will make your taste buds dance.

Browning the Chicken Strips

Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, add the sliced chicken breasts.

Cook the chicken strips for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally. This will make them beautifully browned and cooked through. Sealing in the juices and amplifying the chicken’s flavors is important.

After cooking the chicken, add the shrimp to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until they’re opaque and tender. The combination of seared chicken and succulent shrimp is amazing.

As the chicken and shrimp cook, your kitchen will fill with garlic, chili flakes, and spices. It’s like being in an Italian trattoria. This step prepares the dish for the creamy sauce that will soon cover the proteins.

Making the Creamy Sauce

Get ready to make a rich and flavorful creamy sauce. This sauce will take your chicken and shrimp pasta to the next level. In the same pot, melt 3 tablespoons of butter and add 2 ounces of cream cheese. Stir until it’s smooth and creamy.

Next, pour in 2 cups of milk and 2 cups of heavy cream. Let it simmer, stirring now and then, until it thickens in 5-6 minutes. Then, add 1 cup of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, 2 tablespoons of pesto, and 1/4 cup of sun-dried tomatoes. This mix will give you a creamy pasta dish with amazing flavors, perfect for Italian-inspired cuisine.

IngredientAmount
Butter3 tablespoons
Cream cheese2 ounces
Milk2 cups
Heavy cream2 cups
Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese1 cup, grated
Pesto2 tablespoons
Sun-dried tomatoes1/4 cup

The result is a creamy and indulgent sauce. It perfectly coats the chicken and shrimp. Your family and friends will love this delicious pasta dish.

chicken and shrimp pasta

Discover the captivating blend of chicken and shrimp in this Italian-inspired cuisine. It promises to elevate your pasta experience. This creamy dish combines the juicy tenderness of chicken and the succulent sweetness of shrimp. It’s all cooked to perfection and tossed in a Parmesan-infused sauce.

With a Prep Time of just 10 minutes, a Cook Time of 20 minutes, and a Total Time of 30 minutes, this chicken and shrimp pasta recipe is perfect for a quick dinner. It serves 8 people and is packed with nutrients.

  • Calories: 535kcal per serving
  • Protein: 30g
  • Carbohydrates: 48g
  • Fat: 25g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g

The key to this mouthwatering seafood pasta recipe is the thoughtful combination of ingredients. It features 4 chicken breasts and 1 lb of shrimp. The 16 oz of fettuccini pasta is the perfect foundation, complemented by 2 cups each of mushrooms and heavy whipping cream.

Aromatic flavors are introduced through 4 cloves of garlic and fresh herbs like oregano and parsley. 1 cup of unsalted butter and 2 cups of grated Parmesan cheese add an indulgent touch.

IngredientQuantity
Chicken Breasts4
Shrimp1 lb
Fettuccini Pasta16 oz
Mushrooms2 cups
Heavy Whipping Cream2 cups
Garlic4 cloves
OreganoFresh
ParsleyFresh
Unsalted Butter1 cup
Parmesan Cheese2 cups, grated

This chicken and shrimp pasta dish is a true testament to the art of blending flavors and textures. The juicy chicken and succulent shrimp are sautéed to perfection. Then, they’re tossed with the creamy, Parmesan-infused sauce, creating a harmonious symphony of taste.

Indulge in this delightful fusion of seafood pasta recipes and enjoy the comforting warmth of this Italian-inspired cuisine.

chicken and shrimp pasta

Combining the Ingredients

The final step is to mix the cooked trottole pasta, sautéed chicken, and juicy shrimp with the creamy sauce. This mix of flavors and textures makes every bite delicious. It shows the best of chicken and shrimp in a creamy pasta dish that’s truly Italian-inspired.

Tossing the Pasta, Chicken, and Shrimp with the Creamy Sauce

Start by adding the cooked trottole pasta to the saucepan with the creamy sauce. Gently toss the pasta to coat it evenly with the sauce. Then, add the sautéed chicken strips and plump shrimp to the mix.

Make sure every element is well combined. The result is a delicious mix of chicken and shrimp pasta that’s a treat for the senses.

After combining all the ingredients, admire the dish’s beauty. The pasta, chicken, and shrimp, all coated in the creamy sauce, look amazing. It’s a stunning dish that will impress your guests.

Now, it’s time to serve this creamy pasta dish and enjoy the amazing flavors you’ve made. Bon appétit!

Variations and Customizations

The classic chicken and shrimp pasta recipe is a hit, but feel free to mix it up. This Italian-inspired cuisine is all about trying new things. You can change up the protein, pasta, and sauce to make it your own.

Exploring Different Protein Options

Want a seafood-only dish? Swap the chicken for scallops or lobster for a fancy touch. Or, try tofu or marinated mushrooms for a plant-based option. There are countless ways to make your creamy pasta dishes special.

Experimenting with Different Pasta Shapes and Sauces

Don’t stick to trottole pasta. Try penne, fettuccine, or rigatoni for a different feel. Each shape changes the dish’s texture and taste. You can also play with sauces, from light alfredo to bold Cajun-inspired ones.

“The possibilities are endless when it comes to creating your perfect creamy pasta dishes.”

Customizing is all about being open-minded and having fun. Mix flavors, textures, and let your creativity run wild. Your chicken and shrimp pasta will be a hit, and you’ll be proud to share it.

Serving and Presentation

Make your chicken and shrimp pasta stand out by how you serve it. This Italian-inspired cuisine looks great when presented well. Here are some tips to make your easy weeknight dinner look amazing:

Plating and Garnishing the Dish

Begin by placing the chicken and shrimp pasta on individual plates or bowls. Spread it out so the sauce flows over the top. Top it with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for a nice touch. This mix of textures and colors makes the dish look like it’s from a restaurant.

To add a bit of class, drizzle olive oil over the pasta. This step boosts the flavor and looks. You can also add a lemon slice or some cherry tomatoes for a burst of freshness.

GarnishQuantityPurpose
Parmesan Cheese2 tablespoonsAdds a savory, nutty flavor and creamy texture
Fresh Parsley1-2 sprigsEnhances the dish’s visual appeal and provides a fresh, herbal note
Olive Oil1 teaspoonDrizzles over the pasta for an extra layer of flavor and richness
Lemon Wedge1Adds a bright, acidic note and can be squeezed over the pasta
Cherry Tomatoes3-4Provides a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta

With these simple garnishes, your chicken and shrimp pasta will look stunning. It’s perfect for family dinners or special events.

Plated chicken and shrimp pasta

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Enjoying a delicious chicken and shrimp pasta doesn’t have to end when you’re done eating. You can still enjoy the flavors of this easy weeknight dinner later. Just follow the right storage and reheating steps.

To keep your leftover chicken and shrimp pasta fresh, store it in an airtight container. Put it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to eat it again, you have a few ways to reheat it:

  • On the stovetop: Reheat the pasta in a pot over medium-low heat. Stir often until it’s warm. This keeps the creamy sauce together.
  • In the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the pasta, covered, for about 20 minutes. It should be hot inside.
  • In the microwave: Microwave the pasta in a safe dish, covered with a damp paper towel. Heat in short 1-2 minute bursts. Stir between each burst to heat evenly.

It’s key to not overcook the pasta when reheating. This can make it dry and unappetizing. Stop reheating when it’s hot all the way through.

With a bit of knowledge on storage and reheating, you can enjoy your chicken and shrimp pasta leftovers. They’re perfect for quick meals or lunches. Enjoy the taste and convenience of this dish even after the first time you cook it.

Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits

Chicken and shrimp pasta is not just tasty but also good for you. It has lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats. This makes it a fulfilling and healthy meal.

Exploring the Nutritional Value of Chicken and Shrimp Pasta

The protein in chicken and shrimp is a big plus. Traditional pasta has 6-8 grams of protein per cup. But, pasta made from lentils, chickpeas, or soybeans can have up to 25 grams. This can help you feel full longer, which is good for weight control.

Whole-grain pasta in this recipe adds complex carbs and fiber. These are key for a balanced diet. The creamy sauce adds calcium and vitamins, making the dish even healthier.

Chicken and shrimp pasta is a treat when eaten in moderation. The Mediterranean Diet, which includes pasta, is known for its health benefits. It can lower heart disease risk and boost overall health.

“Incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods, like chicken, shrimp, and whole-grain pasta, can provide a well-rounded and satisfying meal that supports overall health.”

If you love creamy pasta dishes or want a healthy Italian option, chicken and shrimp pasta is great. Knowing its nutritional value and health benefits helps you enjoy it as part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

This guide has shown you how to make a tasty chicken and shrimp pasta dish at home. You can now mix these two proteins in a rich sauce. This will impress your family and friends.

Looking for a quick dinner or a special meal? This chicken and shrimp pasta is perfect. It’s a favorite in many homes.

The recipe uses the right mix of ingredients. You’ll need chicken, shrimp, and a creamy Alfredo sauce. It’s easy to make, great for busy nights.

You can change the recipe to fit your taste. This makes it perfect for any meal. It’s good for any diet.

Ready to try this chicken and shrimp pasta recipe? Get the ingredients and follow the steps. You’ll love the taste and impress your guests.

FAQ

What are the key ingredients needed to make this chicken and shrimp pasta dish?

You’ll need dry trottole pasta, extra-virgin olive oil, and garlic. Also, dried basil, red pepper flakes, and black pepper are important. Chicken breasts, unsalted butter, and cream cheese are next. Don’t forget milk, heavy cream, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Pesto, sun-dried tomatoes, and uncooked medium shrimp round out the list.

How long does it take to prepare and cook this chicken and shrimp pasta dish?

It takes 55 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll spend 30 minutes getting ready and 25 minutes cooking.

Can I substitute or mix other proteins in this dish?

Yes, you can swap or mix proteins like scallops, lobster, or tofu. Mushrooms are also a great option.

Can I use different pasta shapes and sauce variations for this recipe?

Absolutely, try different pasta shapes like penne or fettuccine. You can also experiment with various sauces, like a lighter alfredo or a spicier Cajun version.

How can I store and reheat any leftover chicken and shrimp pasta?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring often until warm.

What are the health benefits of this chicken and shrimp pasta dish?

This dish is a great mix of protein, carbs, and healthy fats. It’s made with lean chicken, nutrient-rich shrimp, and whole-grain pasta. It’s a nutritious and filling meal.