Chicken Shrimp Carbonara is an indulgent and comforting dish that beautifully marries the flavors of succulent chicken and tender shrimp in a rich, creamy sauce. This delightful pasta dish, inspired by the classic Italian carbonara, elevates the traditional recipe by incorporating the sweetness of shrimp, creating a unique twist that is both satisfying and delicious. The combination of the two proteins not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a delightful texture that makes every bite a pleasure.
What makes Chicken Shrimp Carbonara truly appealing is its versatility—it’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. The creamy sauce, made from a blend of heavy cream, egg yolks, and Parmesan cheese, envelops the pasta in a luscious coating, making it a comfort food favorite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is accessible and straightforward, ensuring that anyone can recreate this restaurant-quality dish at home.
In this blog post, we aim to provide a comprehensive guide to making Chicken Shrimp Carbonara. From selecting the right ingredients to mastering the cooking techniques, you’ll find everything you need to create this scrumptious meal that will surely impress your family and friends. Get ready to savor the deliciousness of Chicken Shrimp Carbonara!
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Chicken Shrimp Carbonara
Essential Ingredients
To create a mouthwatering Chicken Shrimp Carbonara, you’ll need essential ingredients to deliver rich flavours and a creamy texture.
Chicken breast (diced) serves as the heart of this dish, offering lean protein with a mild flavour that absorbs the sauce beautifully. Opt for fresh chicken for the best results, ensuring it remains juicy and tender during cooking.
Shrimp (peeled and deveined) adds a touch of sweetness and a delightful seafood flavour that complements the chicken. Choose medium to large shrimp for a satisfying bite, and ensure they are fresh or properly thawed if frozen.
Pasta, traditionally spaghetti or fettuccine, forms the base of the dish. Spaghetti provides a classic, elegant presentation, while fettuccine offers a broader surface for the sauce to cling to, making it a hearty option.
Heavy cream is crucial for achieving the dish’s signature creaminess, lending a rich mouthfeel that balances the savoury elements.
Egg yolks contribute to the sauce’s velvety texture and help bind the ingredients together, enhancing the overall richness.
Parmesan cheese (grated) adds a salty, nutty flavour, elevating the dish and thickening the sauce.
Garlic (minced) infuses the dish with aromatic depth, while olive oil is used for sautéing the chicken and shrimp, imparting a subtle fruity flavour.
Finally, black pepper adds a touch of heat, enhancing the overall flavour profile without overpowering the dish. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend that makes Chicken Shrimp Carbonara an irresistible culinary delight.
Optional Ingredients
While the essential ingredients provide a strong foundation for your Chicken Shrimp Carbonara, incorporating optional ingredients can elevate the dish and tailor it to your personal taste preferences.
Salt (to taste) is a crucial component for enhancing the overall flavour of your dish. Adding salt during the cooking process helps to bring out the natural flavours of the chicken, shrimp, and pasta. Tasting as you go is important, ensuring you achieve the perfect balance.
Red pepper flakes are an excellent choice for those who enjoy a bit of heat. A pinch can add a spicy kick that complements the creamy sauce without overpowering it. Adjust the amount according to your spice tolerance, making it a versatile option for all palates.
Lemon zest can introduce a bright, refreshing note to the dish. The citrusy aroma and flavour of lemon zest lighten the richness of the carbonara, making it a delightful addition, especially in warmer months.
Incorporating additional vegetables like peas or spinach enhances the dish’s nutritional value and adds vibrant colour and texture. These vegetables can be sautéed along with the chicken and shrimp or gently folded just before serving, providing a fresh contrast to the creamy sauce.
Preparing the Ingredients
Cooking the Pasta
Cooking the pasta to perfection is crucial in making Chicken Shrimp Carbonara, as it serves as the base for this delicious dish. To achieve that ideal al dente texture, bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil. The general rule of thumb is to use about 4-6 quarts of water for every pound of pasta, which helps prevent the noodles from sticking together.
Before adding the pasta, it’s essential to season the water. Add a generous amount of salt—about 1-2 tablespoons—into the boiling water. This not only enhances the flavour of the pasta itself but also helps to season the dish from the inside out.
Once the water is boiling, carefully add the pasta, stirring gently to prevent clumping. Follow the cooking time suggested on the package, usually around 8-12 minutes, but always test a strand a minute or two before the suggested time. You want the pasta to be al dente, meaning it should be firm to the bite but not raw.
Once the pasta is cooked, reserve a cup of the starchy pasta water before draining it. This water can be added to the sauce later to achieve the desired creaminess and help bind the ingredients together. Drain the pasta and toss it with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking while you prepare the sauce. With these tips, your pasta will be perfectly cooked and ready to absorb the delightful flavours of Chicken Shrimp Carbonara!
Preparing the Chicken and Shrimp
Preparing chicken and shrimp is crucial for creating a balanced and flavorful Chicken Shrimp Carbonara. Begin with the chicken breast. Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are uniform for even cooking. Pat the pieces dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which allows for better browning.
Next, season the chicken generously with salt, pepper, and any additional spices you prefer, such as garlic powder or Italian seasoning. This enhances the flavour of the chicken, making it a delicious component of the dish.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken pieces in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan, as this can lead to steaming rather than browning. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until golden brown and cooked through. A meat thermometer ensures the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Once the chicken is cooked, transfer it to a plate and cover it to keep warm. Add a bit more olive oil, if needed, in the same skillet, then toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp on each side for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque, indicating they are tender and fully cooked.
Once done, combine the chicken and shrimp in the skillet, allowing their flavours to meld before adding them to the pasta and sauce. This step ensures that both proteins are perfectly cooked and ready to enhance your Chicken Shrimp Carbonara!
Making the Carbonara Sauce
Mixing the Cream and Egg Yolks
Creating the creamy sauce for Chicken Shrimp Carbonara involves a crucial step: properly mixing the heavy cream with egg yolks. This combination forms the rich and velvety base that coats the pasta beautifully. Begin by gathering ingredients: 1 cup of heavy cream and 3-4 large egg yolks.
In a medium-sized bowl, add the egg yolks. Using a whisk, beat them gently until they become slightly frothy and pale. This aeration helps create a smooth sauce. Next, slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuously whisking. This gradual incorporation prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly, which could lead to a scrambled texture.
Continue whisking until the mixture is well combined and smooth. To ensure that the sauce achieves the right consistency, it should be thick enough to cling to the pasta but still pourable. If the mixture feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up.
It’s essential to temper the egg yolks to avoid curdling. To do this, take a small amount of the hot pasta cooking water and slowly whisk it into the cream and egg mixture before combining it with the pasta. This technique gradually raises the temperature of the egg yolks, resulting in a creamy, luscious carbonara sauce that perfectly envelops the chicken and shrimp. With these steps, you’ll create a rich sauce that elevates your dish to a new level!
Combining the Sauce with Pasta and Protein
Combining the sauce with the cooked pasta and protein is the final step in creating a delicious Chicken Shrimp Carbonara. Ensure your pasta is drained and ready while your cream and egg yolk mixture is prepared. It’s crucial to work quickly at this stage to maintain the sauce’s creamy texture and prevent it from thickening too much.
Add the drained pasta directly to the pan in the same skillet where you cooked the chicken and shrimp. Toss the pasta gently to combine with any residual oil and flavours from the proteins. Next, remove the skillet from heat to avoid cooking the egg yolks too quickly, which could lead to curdling.
Slowly pour the cream and egg mixture over the pasta, using a pair of tongs or a large fork to toss everything together. This gentle tossing action ensures that the sauce evenly coats each strand of pasta and combines well with the chicken and shrimp. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to achieve a creamier consistency.
Keep tossing until every piece is coated with the luscious sauce. If desired, sprinkle in some freshly grated Parmesan cheese at this stage for an extra burst of flavour. This careful combining process is key to achieving that signature creamy, flavorful Chicken Shrimp Carbonara that will leave everyone craving more!
Serving Suggestions and Tips
Plating the Dish
Plating your Chicken Shrimp Carbonara beautifully enhances its visual appeal and sets the stage for an enjoyable dining experience. Begin by serving the creamy pasta in shallow bowls or on large dinner plates, allowing the vibrant colours and textures to shine. Use tongs to twirl nests of pasta onto the plate, ensuring an inviting presentation.
Garnishing is key to elevating your dish. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a burst of colour and freshness, balancing the richness of the carbonara. Chop the parsley finely and scatter it generously over the dish. A light dusting of grated Parmesan cheese also provides a flavorful finishing touch. For an extra touch of elegance, consider using a microplane to create a fine layer of Parmesan, allowing it to melt slightly into the warm pasta.
To complement your Chicken Shrimp Carbonara, consider serving it with side dishes that enhance the meal without overwhelming it. A simple arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette adds a peppery contrast and freshness. Alternatively, garlic bread or a crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the delicious sauce. For a lighter option, steamed asparagus or broccoli can add vibrant colour and nutrients, making your meal satisfying and well-rounded. With these plating and pairing ideas, your Chicken Shrimp Carbonara will taste divine and look stunning on the table!
Storing and Reheating
Properly storing and reheating your Chicken Shrimp Carbonara is essential to maintain its delicious flavours and creamy texture. After enjoying your meal, allow any leftovers to cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer the pasta to an airtight container. It’s best to store the chicken and shrimp mixed with the pasta to preserve the flavour, but if you prefer, you can also store them separately. Make sure to consume the leftovers within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.
To prevent the pasta from sticking together in the refrigerator, consider tossing it with a small amount of olive oil before storing it. This helps maintain a bit of moisture and keeps the noodles from clumping.
When it comes time to reheat your Chicken Shrimp Carbonara, it’s important to do so gently to avoid curdling the sauce. Start by placing the leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat. Add a splash of reserved pasta water or a bit of heavy cream to help restore the sauce’s creaminess and prevent it from becoming too thick.
Stir the mixture consistently, allowing it to heat evenly without bringing it to a boil. If you’re using a microwave, reheat it briefly, stirring it in between to promote even heating. By following these tips, you can enjoy your Chicken Shrimp Carbonara as if it were freshly made, ensuring that every bite remains rich and flavorful!
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chicken Shrimp Carbonara is a delightful dish that combines the best of both worlds: the tender, savoury goodness of chicken and the succulent sweetness of shrimp, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce. The combination of flavours and textures makes this recipe incredibly satisfying and turns any meal into a special occasion. The luscious sauce, perfectly coated pasta, and the hint of garlic create a harmonious balance that will surely please your palate.
We encourage you to try out this recipe in your kitchen! Whether cooking for family or impressing friends at a dinner party, Chicken Shrimp Carbonara is an excellent choice that is impressive and relatively easy to prepare. Don’t hesitate to experiment with the optional ingredients we discussed to make it your own and feel free to share your unique twists on the recipe.
Chicken Shrimp Carbonara
Ingredients
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
- 1 lb spaghetti or fettuccine
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3 –4 large egg yolks
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast (diced)
- 1 lb medium to large shrimp peeled and deveined
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Salt to taste
Optional Ingredients
- Red pepper flakes optional, for heat
- Lemon zest optional, for brightness
- Peas or spinach optional, for added nutrition and color
Instructions
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add pasta and cook until al dente (about 8–12 minutes). Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining. Toss drained pasta with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Prepare the Chicken and Shrimp
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and pat dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, and optional spices like garlic powder or Italian seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add shrimp and season lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Combine cooked chicken and shrimp back into the skillet.
Make the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together egg yolks and heavy cream until smooth. Gradually temper the mixture by adding a small amount of hot pasta water while whisking continuously. This prevents curdling.
Combine Everything
- Add drained pasta to the skillet with chicken and shrimp. Remove from heat and pour the cream and egg mixture over the pasta. Toss gently to coat evenly. If needed, add reserved pasta water to adjust consistency. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and toss again.
Serve
- Plate the Chicken Shrimp Carbonara in shallow bowls or on dinner plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and grated Parmesan. Serve immediately with sides like arugula salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables.
Notes
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Total Fat | 35 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Cholesterol | 250 mg |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 40 g |
FAQs
What is Chicken Shrimp Carbonara?
Chicken Shrimp Carbonara is a delicious pasta dish that combines tender chicken and shrimp with a creamy carbonara sauce, typically made with eggs, cheese, and black pepper.
What ingredients do I need to make Chicken Shrimp Carbonara?
Chicken breast
Shrimp
Spaghetti or fettuccine
Eggs
Parmesan cheese
Garlic
Olive oil
Black pepper
Salt
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Shrimp Carbonara?
The preparation and cooking time for Chicken Shrimp Carbonara is usually around 30 to 45 minutes, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Can I make Chicken Shrimp Carbonara ahead of time?
While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the chicken and shrimp in advance. However, it’s recommended to cook the pasta and combine everything just before serving to maintain the creamy texture.
What can I serve with Chicken Shrimp Carbonara?
This dish pairs well with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
Are there any variations of Chicken Shrimp Carbonara?
Yes! You can customize the dish by adding vegetables like peas or spinach, using different types of pasta, or experimenting with various cheeses.
Is Chicken Shrimp Carbonara suitable for meal prep?
Yes, you can portion out the dish for meal prep. Store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I substitute ingredients in Chicken Shrimp Carbonara?
Absolutely! You can use different proteins, such as bacon or scallops, or substitute the pasta with a gluten-free option if needed.
Source Links
- Food Network – Shrimp Carbonara – https://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/shrimp-carbonara-recipe-2109576
- Bon Appétit – Chicken Carbonara – https://www.bonappetit.com/recipe/chicken-carbonara
- Serious Eats – Classic Carbonara – https://www.seriouseats.com/classic-carbonara-recipe-5116484
- BBC Good Food – Carbonara Recipes – https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/carbonara-recipes
- The Kitchn – How to Make Carbonara – https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-carbonara-226557