Best Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo | Rich Creamy Sauce

If you’re craving a dish that combines tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a luscious, creamy sauce, this chicken and shrimp alfredo recipe is here to satisfy your taste buds. Perfectly balanced and packed with flavor, this dish brings together two proteins in a rich, velvety alfredo sauce that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply treating yourself to a comforting meal, this chicken shrimp alfredo delivers restaurant-quality taste right at home.

What makes this shrimp chicken alfredo so special is its simplicity and depth of flavor. With just a few fresh ingredients and a perfectly crafted chicken and shrimp alfredo sauce , you can create a dish that feels indulgent yet is easy enough for any home cook to master. Ready to elevate your pasta game? Let’s dive into this foolproof guide and bring the creamy, savory magic of chicken and shrimp alfredo to your table tonight!

Quick Recipe Card

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (per serving):

Calories: 520 | Fat: 28g | Carbs: 36g | Sugar: 4g | Protein: 34g

Key Equipment:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Tongs or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Pasta pot (for boiling pasta)

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo:
  • 8 oz fettuccine pasta (or your favorite pasta)
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
  • 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For the Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Sauce:
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 tsp nutmeg (optional, for depth of flavor)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

This quick guide ensures you can whip up a batch of chicken and shrimp alfredo effortlessly. With these simple ingredients, you’re ready to make one of the best chicken shrimp alfredo dishes at home!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this chicken and shrimp alfredo is simpler than you might think, and with these step-by-step instructions, you’ll have a rich, creamy pasta dish ready to serve in no time. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this guide ensures success every time.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Go ahead and bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in the fettuccine and cook it until it’s al dente, just follow the directions on the package. Once it’s done, drain the pasta but be sure to keep about half a cup of the water you cooked it in.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken

Alright, so grab those chicken slices and give them a good sprinkle of salt and pepper.  Heat up a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and toss in the seasoned chicken.  Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes, flipping them once, until they’re golden brown and cooked all the way through.  Pull the chicken out of the skillet and set it aside for now.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

Toss in another tablespoon of olive oil to the pan. Sprinkle the shrimp with salt and pepper, then get them in there. Cook until they’re pink and cooked through, about 2-3 minutes on each side. Once done, take them out and put them with the chicken.

Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce

Pop that same skillet back on the heat, melt the butter over medium, and you’re good to go. Sauté the minced garlic for about a minute or until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add some of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with nutmeg (optional) and additional salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat them evenly in the chicken and shrimp alfredo sauce . Add the drained pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Plate the shrimp chicken alfredo , garnishing with fresh parsley if desired. Serve immediately with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for those who want an extra cheesy touch.

With this recipe, you’ll achieve a decadent, restaurant-worthy chicken and shrimp alfredo that’s sure to impress!

Expert Tips & Troubleshooting

Making this chicken and shrimp alfredo is straightforward, but these expert tips will help you avoid common pitfalls and elevate your dish to perfection. Whether you’re aiming for a silky sauce or troubleshooting a step, these insights will ensure success every time.

Professional Chef Insights:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese melts more smoothly than pre-grated varieties, which often contain anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of your chicken and shrimp alfredo sauce .
• Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and can become rubbery if overdone. Remove them from the skillet as soon as they turn pink and opaque to keep them tender and juicy.
• Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps bind the sauce to the noodles, creating a smoother, creamier consistency in your chicken shrimp alfredo .

Troubleshooting Common Issues:

• Sauce Too Thick: If the sauce becomes too thick, gradually whisk in reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, until the desired consistency is reached.
• Sauce Too Thin: If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for an additional 1–2 minutes to reduce and thicken slightly. The cream can curdle if boiled; it is best to avoid doing so.
• Lack of Flavor: If the dish feels bland, season generously with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg. The zestiness of fresh lemon juice can enhance the flavors of your shrimp chicken alfredo.

Make-Ahead Instructions:

You can make the chicken and shrimp alfredo sauce the day before and just keep it chilled in the fridge until you need it. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Storage Guidelines:

Store leftover chicken and shrimp alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to prevent the cream-based sauce from separating. Do not freeze, as this may also cause the sauce to separate.

With these tips, you’ll master the art of making a perfect chicken and shrimp alfredo like a pro!

Variations & Customizations

One of the best things about this chicken and shrimp alfredo is its flexibility. Whether you’re catering to specific preferences or experimenting with flavors, these customizations will keep your chicken shrimp alfredo exciting and unique for any occasion.

Flavor Enhancements:

• Add Heat: For a spicy kick, stir in red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the chicken and shrimp alfredo sauce before serving.
• Herb Infusion: Add fresh herbs like basil, thyme, or oregano to the sauce for a fragrant twist that complements the creamy texture of the shrimp chicken alfredo .
• Citrus Zest: Sprinkle lemon or orange zest over the finished dish for a bright, refreshing contrast to the richness of the sauce.

Dietary Modifications:

• Low-Carb Option: Swap traditional pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or spaghetti squash to make this chicken and shrimp alfredo keto-friendly without sacrificing flavor.
• Lighter Version: Substitute half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream to create a lighter sauce. Keep in mind this may slightly alter the richness of the dish.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use gluten-free pasta to ensure your chicken shrimp alfredo is safe for those avoiding gluten.

Ingredient Swaps:

• Protein Variations: Swap chicken or shrimp for other proteins like grilled sausage, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust seasoning accordingly to suit the protein choice.
• Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses like Asiago or Romano to customize the flavor profile of your chicken and shrimp alfredo sauce .
• Vegetable Add-Ins: Stir in sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or sun-dried tomatoes for added nutrients and texture in your pasta dish.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair the chicken and shrimp alfredo with classic sides like garlic breadsticks, Caesar salad, or roasted asparagus for a well-rounded meal.
• Serve it with a side of warm focaccia or crusty bread to soak up any leftover sauce from the plate.
• Package individual portions in meal prep containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Offer condiments like red pepper flakes, grated Parmesan, or lemon wedges on the side, allowing guests to customize their flavors.

With these variations, your chicken and shrimp alfredo can suit any occasion, taste preference, or dietary need—ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy!

Conclusion

There you have it—the ultimate guide to making a chicken and shrimp alfredo that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying. Whether you’re whipping up this dish for a cozy weeknight dinner or hosting a gathering, this creamy pasta creation delivers big flavor with minimal effort. With its tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and velvety chicken and shrimp alfredo sauce , this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

What makes this chicken shrimp alfredo so special is its balance of simplicity and elegance. Using just a few high-quality ingredients and basic techniques, you can create a dish that feels luxurious yet is easy enough for any home cook to master. Best of all, it’s adaptable to suit any taste or dietary preference, making it perfect for family dinners, entertaining guests, or even meal prep.

Get your ingredients ready, turn on the stove, and prepare to cook a meal that will make everyone ask for more. Happy cooking, and may every bite remind you why chicken and shrimp alfredo is a true comfort food classic!

FAQ Section

1. What is the best way to prevent dry chicken in this dish?

Prevent overcooking to ensure the chicken remains tender and juicy. Sear the chicken slices just until golden brown and cooked through, then remove them from the skillet immediately to prevent drying out in your chicken and shrimp alfredo .

2. Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes! Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or pasta water to loosen the sauce if needed. Want the best texture? Cook the pasta and protein right when you’re about to serve.

3. How do I store leftover chicken and shrimp alfredo?

Store leftover chicken and shrimp alfredo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Do not freeze; the cream-based sauce may separate when thawed.

4. Can I use pre-cooked chicken or shrimp?

Absolutely! Using pre-cooked chicken or shrimp can save time. Incorporate them into the chicken and shrimp alfredo sauce during the final stage of cooking, ensuring they are heated through without being overcooked.

5. What sides pair well with chicken and shrimp alfredo?

This chicken shrimp alfredo pairs beautifully with classic sides like garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, or a crisp green salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with warm focaccia or sautéed spinach.

6. Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the chicken and shrimp with plant-based proteins like grilled tofu, mushrooms, or roasted vegetables. Use a creamy Alfredo-style sauce to maintain the dish’s indulgent texture.

7. How do I thicken the alfredo sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, simmer it for an additional 1–2 minutes to reduce and thicken slightly. Alternatively, stir in a small amount of grated Parmesan cheese to achieve a creamier consistency in your shrimp chicken alfredo .