Decadent Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this exquisite Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp, a dish that transforms any meal into a special occasion. This recipe brings together the richness of a homemade, creamy Alfredo sauce with the succulence of perfectly cooked shrimp and tender chicken pieces, all tossed with your favorite pasta. It’s a culinary masterpiece that promises restaurant-quality flavors from the comfort of your own kitchen, allowing you to enjoy a gourmet experience without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this dish is designed to impress and satisfy even the most discerning palates. Its balanced flavors and luxurious texture make it an instant favorite that will have everyone asking for a second helping. Prepare to elevate your weeknight meals with this irresistible and surprisingly simple recipe.

Why You’ll Adore This Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe

This Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo recipe isn’t just another pasta dish; it’s a celebration of flavor and ease. We believe you’ll fall in love with it for several compelling reasons:

• **Gourmet Taste, Homemade Convenience:** Forget expensive dining out! This easy dinner recipe empowers you to create authentic, restaurant-quality shrimp and chicken pasta right at home. You’ll savor every forkful of the rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked proteins, all while knowing you’ve saved money and enjoyed the comfort of your own kitchen.
• **A Subtle Cajun Kick:** What truly sets this recipe apart is its unique Cajun twist. A touch of authentic Cajun seasoning infuses the chicken and shrimp with a delightful warmth and spice, enhancing the overall flavor profile without overpowering the classic Alfredo. It adds an exciting depth that makes this dish incredibly memorable and surprisingly complex.
• **Irresistibly Creamy Homemade Sauce:** The heart of any great Alfredo is its sauce, and ours is truly exceptional. Made from scratch with rich heavy cream, real butter, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, this homemade Alfredo sauce is luxuriously smooth and incredibly flavorful. Its velvety texture perfectly coats every strand of pasta and every piece of chicken and shrimp, guaranteeing a harmonious and utterly satisfying bite. This is the kind of creamy pasta sauce that appeals to the whole family, ensuring clean plates and happy smiles around the dinner table.
• **Effortless Weeknight Elegance:** Despite its sophisticated taste, this recipe is remarkably simple to prepare, making it the ultimate comfort food for busy weeknights. When you need a delicious and hearty meal on the table in a hurry, this chicken and shrimp Alfredo delivers without compromising on quality or flavor. It’s quick enough for a casual family meal yet elegant enough for entertaining.

Essential Ingredients for Your Alfredo Masterpiece

Crafting the perfect Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo starts with selecting the right ingredients. Below is an overview of what you’ll need, along with helpful notes and variations to customize your dish.

Ingredient Notes and Creative Variations

• **Fettuccine Noodles:** While classic fettuccine noodles are our family’s top choice for their broad, flat surface that perfectly clings to the rich Alfredo sauce, feel free to use your favorite pasta shape. Linguine, spaghetti, or even penne can work beautifully, offering a different texture and mouthfeel.
• **Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts:** For tender, succulent chicken, boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into bite-sized cubes are ideal. If you prefer, chicken tenderloins are an excellent alternative and cook even faster. Ensure your chicken is cut uniformly for even cooking.
• **Cajun Seasoning:** This spice blend is key to the dish’s unique flavor. If Cajun seasoning isn’t readily available, Old Bay seasoning makes a fantastic substitute, especially for the shrimp. For an extra layer of flavor, you can use Cajun seasoning on the chicken for a spicy kick and Old Bay for the shrimp to highlight its natural sweetness. Alternatively, a homemade blend of chili powder, dried thyme, and cayenne pepper (as specified in the recipe notes) can mimic the desired spice profile.
• **Unsalted Butter:** Unsalted butter gives you control over the final saltiness of your dish. However, if salted butter is all you have on hand, it will work just as well in this homemade Alfredo sauce recipe; simply adjust any additional salt you might add later.
• **Medium Shrimp:** We highly recommend using fresh shrimp for the best texture and flavor. If using frozen shrimp, it’s crucial to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before seasoning and cooking. This prevents the shrimp from becoming watery and ensures a perfect sear.
• **Fresh Garlic Cloves:** Freshly minced garlic provides an aromatic depth that is hard to beat. If fresh garlic isn’t on hand, jarred minced garlic is a convenient alternative. In a pinch, garlic powder can be used, but remember that fresh garlic offers a more potent and vibrant flavor profile.
• **Broth:** Chicken broth is used for its savory base, but vegetable broth is an excellent vegetarian-friendly substitute that won’t compromise the richness of the sauce. It helps to deglaze the pan and build a robust flavor foundation.
• **Heavy Cream:** This is the star of your creamy pasta sauce! Heavy whipping cream is essential for achieving the luxurious, rich, and velvety texture of a true Alfredo. Do not skimp on the cream, as it provides the iconic body and mouthfeel of the sauce.
• **Freshly Grated Parmesan Cheese:** For the best results and a truly authentic Alfredo, freshly grated Parmesan cheese is highly recommended. It melts smoothly and integrates beautifully into the sauce. Pre-grated or canned Parmesan can be used in a pinch, but fresh provides a superior taste and texture.
• **Fresh Parsley:** A sprinkling of fresh chopped parsley not only adds a vibrant pop of color but also a fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens the entire dish. It’s a wonderful garnish and a subtle flavor enhancer.
• **Black Pepper:** Adjust the amount of freshly ground black pepper to suit your taste buds. It adds a delightful warmth and gentle spice that complements the richness of the sauce.

Before You Begin: Essential Tools for Success

Having the right kitchen tools makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. For this recipe, you’ll need just a few basic items:

• **Large Pot:** Essential for boiling your pasta. A large pot ensures ample space for the pasta to cook evenly without clumping.
• **Large Nonstick Skillet:** This versatile pan will be used for cooking both the chicken and shrimp, as well as building your creamy Alfredo sauce. A nonstick surface helps prevent sticking and makes cleanup a breeze.

Equipping your kitchen with these fundamental tools will set you up for success in preparing this delightful meal and many others. For more of my favorite kitchen essentials, explore my curated collection.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Create Your Perfect Alfredo

Bringing this delicious Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo to life is a straightforward process. Follow these detailed steps for a flawless meal.

1. **Prepare the Pasta:** In a large pot, bring generously salted water to a rolling boil. Add your fettuccine pasta and cook for one minute less than the package directions suggest. This ensures the pasta cooks to a perfect al dente, ready to absorb the rich sauce. Before draining, reserve approximately 1 cup of the starchy pasta cooking water. This liquid is a secret weapon for achieving the ideal sauce consistency later on. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. **Season the Proteins:** While the pasta cooks, prepare your proteins. In a small bowl, place the peeled and deveined shrimp. Sprinkle half of the Cajun seasoning over the shrimp and toss gently to ensure an even coating. In a separate bowl, add your cubed boneless, skinless chicken breast and season with the remaining half of the Cajun seasoning, mixing well.
3. **Cook the Shrimp:** Return your large nonstick skillet to medium-high heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in the skillet. Once the butter is shimmering, add the seasoned shrimp in a single layer. Cook for approximately 2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn opaque and pink. Avoid overcooking to keep them tender. Remove the cooked shrimp from the pan and set aside.
4. **Brown the Chicken:** Add another tablespoon of butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook the chicken for 3-4 minutes per side, or until beautifully browned and cooked through. Achieving a nice brown crust adds significant flavor to the dish. Remove the cooked chicken and set it aside with the shrimp.
5. **Build the Alfredo Sauce Base:** In the now empty skillet, melt the remaining butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Pour in the broth, and use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape the bottom of the skillet, releasing any flavorful browned bits (fond) that have accumulated. This step, called deglazing, adds incredible depth to your sauce.
6. **Create the Creamy Sauce:** Once the broth has simmered for a minute, pour in the heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a light simmer, stirring gently. Do not bring to a rolling boil.
7. **Melt the Parmesan:** Gradually stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Continue stirring constantly until the Parmesan cheese is completely melted and incorporated, creating a smooth, velvety sauce.
8. **Season and Thicken:** Add the black pepper and chopped parsley to the sauce, stirring to combine. Now, pour in about ¼ cup of the reserved pasta cooking water. This starchy water helps to emulsify the sauce, making it even creamier and ensuring it beautifully coats the pasta. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed.
9. **Combine and Finish:** Return the cooked shrimp and chicken to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce. Stir gently to coat them thoroughly. Continue cooking for just about 1 minute, allowing the flavors to meld and the proteins to heat through.
10. **Toss with Pasta:** Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta directly into the sauce and toss vigorously until every strand is evenly coated. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools slightly.
11. **Adjust Consistency:** If the sauce appears too thick for your liking, gradually add a bit more of the reserved pasta water, tossing until you reach your desired creamy consistency.
12. **Serve and Garnish:** Serve immediately, garnished with an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a flourish of fresh chopped parsley on top. Enjoy this rich and comforting meal!

Variations to Make It Your Own

This Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to personalize it to your taste and dietary preferences:

• **Low-Carb Option:** For a lighter, low-carb friendly version, substitute the traditional pasta with cooked spaghetti squash or zucchini noodles. Both provide a delightful texture that pairs well with the creamy Alfredo sauce, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors guilt-free.
• **Extra Heat:** If you crave more spice, don’t hesitate to add a pinch or two of red pepper flakes to your delicious sauce during the simmering stage. This will infuse a delightful warmth that complements the Cajun seasoning.
• **Protein Customization:** Feel free to adjust the protein ratio. You can double the amount of chicken or shrimp and omit the other, catering to individual preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding crispy bacon bits for an extra layer of savory flavor.
• **Add Vegetables:** Introduce a dose of freshness and nutrients by stirring in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or steamed broccoli florets during the last few minutes of cooking.
• **Herb Swap:** While parsley is classic, experiment with other fresh herbs like chives or basil for a different aromatic touch.

Amira’s Tips for the Perfect Recipe

Achieving a truly exceptional Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is easy with these insider tips:

• **Al Dente Perfection:** I always recommend cooking pasta al dente – meaning “to the tooth” – where it’s firm but still has a slight bite. This texture prevents the pasta from becoming mushy when tossed with the sauce and continues to absorb flavors without overcooking. However, feel free to cook it to your desired doneness.
• **Even Cooking for Proteins:** When cooking the shrimp and chicken, always ensure they are arranged in a single layer in your skillet. Overcrowding the pan can lower the temperature, leading to steaming instead of searing, which means less flavor and a less desirable texture. Cook in batches if necessary.
• **Uniform Chicken Pieces:** Cutting your chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces ensures even cooking. If you prefer larger pieces, that’s perfectly fine, but remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they are fully cooked through without drying out.
• **Don’t Rush the Sauce:** Building the Alfredo sauce slowly and stirring constantly, especially when adding the Parmesan, prevents lumps and ensures a silky-smooth consistency.
• **The Magic of Pasta Water:** That reserved pasta water is gold! Its starch content helps emulsify the sauce, making it cling beautifully to the pasta and achieve that perfect creamy texture. Use it gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

How to Store Leftovers

Proper storage ensures you can enjoy this delicious dish for days to come:

**Refrigerate:** Leftovers of this Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp will remain fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Ensure it cools completely before sealing.

**Freeze:** For longer storage, you can freeze this dish for up to 3 months. Allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container. While freezing is convenient, be aware that the texture of the sauce may change slightly upon thawing and reheating, potentially becoming a bit grainier due to the dairy content. Stirring vigorously during reheating can help re-emulsify it.

**Reheat:** For single servings, reheat in the microwave on 50% power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until warmed through. For larger portions, it’s best to reheat in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water, chicken broth, or a touch of milk to help thin out the sauce if it has thickened too much in the refrigerator, stirring until warm and bubbly.

Time-Saving Tips: Make Ahead and Shortcuts

Even on the busiest days, you can enjoy this incredible meal with a few clever time-saving strategies:

• **Fresh is Best, But Prep Ahead:** While our family prefers to serve this dish fresh for the ultimate flavor and texture, you can certainly prepare some components in advance.
• **Season Proteins Ahead:** Season the chicken and shrimp with the Cajun seasoning and store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before you’re ready to cook. This allows the flavors to meld and saves precious time during meal prep.
• **Mince Garlic in Advance:** Mince your garlic ahead of time and keep it in a small airtight container in the fridge.
• **Chop Parsley:** Chop your fresh parsley and store it in the refrigerator, ready for garnish.
• **Pre-Measure Ingredients:** Measure out all your ingredients (broth, heavy cream, Parmesan) before you start cooking. This “mise en place” approach streamlines the cooking process, making it much faster.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve With

Complete your culinary experience with these delightful side dishes that perfectly complement the richness of this Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo:

• **Crisp Side Salad:** A simple, refreshing side salad provides a wonderful contrast to the creamy pasta. My family particularly enjoys this Arugula Salad with its peppery notes.
• **Garlic Bread:** You can never go wrong with a classic! A slice of crunchy Air Fryer Garlic Bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that amazing Alfredo sauce.
• **Nutritious Vegetables:** Balance the meal with a serving of delicious and healthy vegetables. Options like Mediterranean Roasted Vegetables, tender Air Fryer Asparagus, or simple Air Fryer Broccoli are all wonderful choices that add color and nutrients.
• **Refreshing Drink:** A sweet and refreshing beverage like Peach Iced Tea offers the perfect palate cleanser after such a hearty and satisfying meal.

Your Questions Answered: FAQs

Related Recipes You’ll Love

If you enjoyed this creamy and flavorful pasta dish, you’re sure to love these other family-favorite recipes:

• This Cream Cheese Pasta is another deliciously simple and comforting dish that your family will enjoy, perfect as a standalone meal or a delightful side.
• For another satisfying chicken recipe, add this Creamy Tuscan Chicken Pasta to your meal plan, featuring tender chicken in a rich, sun-dried tomato sauce.
• Tuscan Shrimp Pasta is a highly-rated family-favorite, showcasing juicy shrimp cooked in a creamy sun-dried tomato sauce, served over a bed of perfectly cooked pasta for an unforgettable meal.
• For a hearty casserole, Chicken Alfredo Lasagna is a creamy, cheesy classic that combines flavorful chicken with a buttery white sauce and tender lasagna noodles to please your entire family.
• Looking for a quick and satisfying bake? This Alfredo Tortellini Bake is a comforting casserole that’s easy to make and ready in just 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

This Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp proved to be a wonderfully delicious and quick meal that my entire family adored, even my father-in-law! The dish was perfectly balanced, not overly heavy, with tender bites of chicken and succulent shrimp that everyone thoroughly enjoyed. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create a truly memorable dining experience.

If you love this recipe as much as we do, please consider leaving a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ rating! Your feedback is greatly appreciated and helps others discover this delightful dish. Thank you!

Alfredo Pasta with Chicken and Shrimp

A quick and satisfying meal perfect for when you can’t decide between shrimp and chicken. Enjoy tender pasta bathed in a garlicky, creamy Alfredo sauce, studded with savory shrimp and chicken pieces. This dish is so delicious, everyone will ask for seconds!

5 from 1 vote

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Course:
Main Course

Cuisine:
American

Diet:
Halal

Prep Time:
10 minutes minutes

Cook Time:
20 minutes minutes

Total Time:
30 minutes minutes

Servings:
4 Servings

Calories:
728kcal

Author:
Amira

Ingredients

• 8 oz fettuccine pasta dry
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breast cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 Tablespoon cajun seasoning or old bay, divided
• 4 Tablespoon unsalted butter divided
• 10 oz medium shrimp peeled and deveined
• 3 garlic cloves minced
• ¾ cup broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ¾ cup parmesan cheese freshly grated
• ¼ cup parsley chopped
• ½ teaspoon Black pepper to your liking

Instructions

1. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and cook pasta one minute less than the package directions.
2. Reserve 1 cup of the cooking pasta water then drain the pasta and set aside.
3. Place shrimp in a small bowl and mix with half the cajun seasoning.
4. Place chicken in another bowl and mix with the remaining half of cajun seasoning.
5. Meanwhile, in a large non stick skillet melt 1 tablespoon of butter , add shrimp and cooke for about 2 minutes on each side. Remove from pan.
6. Add another tablespoon of butter to the skillet and add chicken. Cook chicken 3-4 minutes each side until browned. Remove and set aside.
7. In the same skillet melt the remaining butter and add garlic. Saute garlic until fragrant.
8. Add broth scrapping the bottom of the skillet to get any brown stuff out. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a light simmer.
9. Stir in parmesan cheese, keep stirring until parmesan melts.
10. Add black pepper and parsley.Pour in ¼ cup of the pasta water.
11. Taste to adjust seasoning.
12. Add shrimp and chicken back and stir. Keep cooking for about a minute.
13. Take it off heat and toss pasta as the sauce will thicken more.
14. If the sauce is too thick for your liking add a bit more of the pasta water and toss.
15. Serve with more parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of parsley on top.

Notes

If you do not have Cajun seasoning or Old Bay, you can create a similar flavor profile using ¾ tablespoon chili powder + ¾ teaspoon dried thyme and ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper.

Nutrition

Calories: 728kcal |
Carbohydrates: 47g |
Protein: 43g |
Fat: 41g |
Saturated Fat: 25g |
Polyunsaturated Fat: 2g |
Monounsaturated Fat: 10g |
Trans Fat: 0.5g |
Cholesterol: 262mg |
Sodium: 658mg |
Potassium: 674mg |
Fiber: 3g |
Sugar: 4g |
Vitamin A: 2682IU |
Vitamin C: 7mg |
Calcium: 343mg |
Iron: 2mg

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