This Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy and comforting dish that combines tender chicken and juicy shrimp with a rich, cheesy sauce. It’s a perfect meal for any pasta lover!
I love making this for dinner because it’s so easy and quick. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a big bowl of creamy goodness? Just make sure to have extra parmesan on hand—trust me, you’ll want it! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This type of pasta is great for Alfredo because it holds onto creamy sauces well. If you’re short on fettuccine, you can swap in other noodles like linguine or even penne for a fun twist.
Chicken Breast: Fresh chicken breast is ideal. You can also use thigh meat for a juicier flavor or even rotisserie chicken for a quick option. If you’re vegetarian, try using tofu or mushrooms instead!
Shrimp: Fresh or frozen shrimp works perfectly. If you don’t eat seafood, consider adding more chicken or even ground turkey, but keep in mind that cooking times may vary.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or even a mix of milk and cream. Just remember that this may change the richness of your sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds the best flavor. If you want a similar taste, Pecorino Romano is a good substitute. Nutritional yeast can work for a dairy-free option!
Cajun Seasoning: This gives a nice kick. You can adjust the amount based on your taste or use a blend of paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder if you want to make your own seasoning blend.
How Do You Make Sure Your Alfredo Sauce Is Smooth?
Creating a velvety Alfredo sauce is key! The secret is to heat the cream gently and add cheese slowly. Follow these steps:
- After sautéing the garlic, reduce the heat to medium-low before adding the cream. This helps prevent it from boiling, which can cause it to separate.
- Gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese. It’s best to add a little at a time, letting it melt completely before adding more.
- Mix thoroughly until the sauce is creamy and smooth. If it’s too thick, you can thin it out with a splash of pasta water.
Following these tips ensures you’ll get a luscious sauce every time! Enjoy making your Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo!
How to Make Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo takes about 30 minutes to prepare. You’ll spend around 10 minutes cooking the pasta and about 20 minutes preparing the chicken, shrimp, and creamy Alfredo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Fettuccine:
Start by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Once it’s al dente (cooked just right), drain it in a colander and set it aside. Making sure the pasta is well-drained helps it mix better with the sauce later!
2. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced chicken breast to the hot skillet. Season it with salt, pepper, and half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s nicely cooked through and golden brown. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside. We’ll add it back later!
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Now, in the same skillet, add the shrimp along with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and are cooked through. When they’re ready, take them out and keep them with the chicken.
4. Sauté the Garlic:
In the same skillet (don’t wash it just yet!), add the minced garlic. Sauté it for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant; you want to enjoy that lovely garlic smell!
5. Create the Alfredo Sauce:
Next, pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and mix it until it melts completely and the sauce is smooth and creamy. This is where the magic happens!
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked chicken and shrimp back into the skillet, along with the drained fettuccine. Toss everything together gently until well combined and nicely coated in that creamy Alfredo sauce. Yum!
7. Final Touches:
Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if you like. This is all about your personal taste!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Dish up your Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if you’re feeling fancy. Enjoy your meal, and get ready for compliments!
Can I Use Different Types of Pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo, you can substitute it with any pasta you like, such as penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose, and remember to check for doneness before draining.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a mix of milk and cream. Keep in mind that using lower-fat dairy might result in a less creamy sauce, so consider adding a bit more cheese or a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken it up.
Can I Prep This Dish Ahead of Time?
You can cook the chicken and shrimp and prepare the Alfredo sauce ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat everything in a skillet, then combine with freshly cooked pasta for the best flavor and texture.
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of milk or cream while warming in the microwave or on the stove to restore creaminess, and stir frequently for even heating.
