Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food—*chicken and shrimp carbonara*! This dish is a magical blend of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a rich, creamy carbonara sauce that just wraps around the pasta like a warm hug. Seriously, every time I make it, my kitchen fills with this incredible aroma that instantly makes my mouth water.
There’s just something about the combination of chicken and shrimp that feels fancy yet so comforting at the same time. I remember the first time I tried chicken and shrimp carbonara at a little Italian bistro, and I was hooked! I knew I had to recreate it at home, and now, it’s become a staple in my kitchen. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll understand why this dish has won a special place in my heart!
Ingredients List
- 200g spaghetti
- 150g chicken breast, diced
- 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 100ml heavy cream
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How to Prepare Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara
Step 1 – Cook the Spaghetti
First things first! You’ll want to get that spaghetti cooking. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, and then toss in 200g of spaghetti. Follow the package instructions for timing—usually about 8-10 minutes until it’s al dente. Trust me, you don’t want it mushy! Once it’s cooked to perfection, drain it, but save a cup of that pasta water just in case you need to loosen up your sauce later. Set it aside for now.
Step 2 – Prepare the Chicken and Shrimp
Now, let’s move on to the good stuff! In a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering (you know, that lovely wavy look), add in 150g of diced chicken breast. Cook it until it’s nicely browned on all sides—about 5-7 minutes should do it. Don’t rush this step; you want that golden color!
Next, toss in 150g of peeled and deveined shrimp along with 2 minced garlic cloves. Keep stirring until the shrimp turns that beautiful pink color—just about 3 minutes. The smell will be out of this world, and your kitchen will start to feel like a cozy Italian trattoria!
Step 3 – Make the Sauce
Once your chicken and shrimp are ready, it’s time to make that creamy sauce! Reduce the heat to low and stir in 100ml of heavy cream and 50g of grated Parmesan cheese. Oh wow, this is where the magic happens! Stir everything together until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes silky smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste—don’t be shy, this is where you can really make it your own!
Step 4 – Combine and Serve
Finally, add your cooked spaghetti to the pan and give it all a good toss to combine everything. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of that reserved pasta water until it’s just right. Then, serve it hot! I love to garnish mine with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor. Grab a fork and dig in—you’re in for a treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick preparation—ready in just 25 minutes!
- Delicious flavor that combines the savory taste of chicken and shrimp.
- Creamy texture that envelops every strand of spaghetti.
- Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen.
- Customizable—feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or proteins!
- A dish that impresses without requiring advanced cooking skills.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown for one plate of my delicious *chicken and shrimp carbonara*. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the brands and specific ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of what you’re enjoying!
- Calories: 600
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 150mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 30g
Isn’t that a lovely balance of flavors and nutrition? You’re getting a good dose of protein from the chicken and shrimp, plus all that comforting creaminess from the sauce. Enjoy every bite, guilt-free!
Tips for Success
Alright, let’s make sure your *chicken and shrimp carbonara* turns out absolutely perfect! Here are my top tips that I’ve learned along the way:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, grab fresh chicken and shrimp. The difference in flavor is incredible! Fresh ingredients bring out the best in your dish.
- Don’t Overcook the Pasta: Remember, spaghetti should be al dente! You want it to have that slight bite, which will hold up beautifully in the sauce.
- Season Gradually: When you’re adding salt and pepper, do it a little at a time. Taste as you go! You can always add more, but it’s hard to take it out once it’s in.
- Make it Creamy: If you find your sauce too thick, just stir in a bit of that reserved pasta water. It helps loosen things up and makes the sauce even creamier.
- Experiment with Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite herbs or spices! A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick, or some fresh basil could elevate the flavor even more.
- Serve Immediately: Carbonara is best enjoyed fresh, so serve it right after you combine everything. The longer it sits, the more the sauce can thicken.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone at the dinner table. Trust me, they’ll be coming back for seconds!
Variations of Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to switch things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with your *chicken and shrimp carbonara*! Here are some ideas that have become favorites in my kitchen:
- Seafood Medley: Swap in your favorite seafood! Instead of just chicken and shrimp, why not add scallops or even crab meat? It adds a luxurious twist and a bit of ocean flavor!
- Veggie Boost: For a healthier spin, toss in some fresh veggies like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or even asparagus. Sauté them with the chicken and shrimp for added color and nutrition!
- Spicy Carbonara: If you like a little heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. It amps up the flavor and gives your dish a nice kick!
- Mushroom Delight: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the chicken and shrimp for an earthy richness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs! Basil, thyme, or even a bit of dill can elevate the dish and add layers of delightful flavors.
- Cheese Lovers: If you can’t get enough of cheesy goodness, try mixing in different types of cheese! A bit of mozzarella or even feta can add a unique twist to the traditional carbonara.
With all these variations, you can make your *chicken and shrimp carbonara* a little different every time! The possibilities are endless, so feel free to get creative and make it your own! Can’t wait to hear which version becomes your new favorite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Let’s talk about how to keep your *chicken and shrimp carbonara* fresh and delicious for later! If you find yourself with leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a win!), here’s how to store and reheat them like a pro.
First off, let the dish cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation in your container, which can make things a bit soggy. Transfer your carbonara to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge. It should stay good for about 2-3 days—if it lasts that long! Just make sure to seal it tightly so those delicious flavors don’t escape.
When it comes to reheating, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Grab a skillet and add your leftover carbonara. You might want to add a splash of water or a bit more heavy cream to loosen it up, as it tends to thicken when it sits in the fridge. Heat it over medium-low, stirring gently until it’s warmed through. This way, you’ll keep that creamy texture that makes this dish so special!
If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works too! Just pop your portion in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat it in short bursts—about 30 seconds at a time—stirring in between until it’s hot. But be careful not to overheat it, as microwaving can sometimes dry it out.
And there you have it! Storing and reheating your *chicken and shrimp carbonara* can be just as enjoyable as the first time you made it. You’ll be able to savor those creamy flavors all over again, so no need to waste a single bite! Enjoy!
FAQ Section
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While I love spaghetti, you can use fettuccine, penne, or even gluten-free pasta if you prefer. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as different shapes may require a bit more or less time to cook.
What if I don’t have heavy cream?
No worries! You can substitute with half-and-half or even a combination of milk and sour cream to achieve a creamy texture. Just keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly lighter, but it’ll still be delicious!
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best texture, you can prepare the chicken and shrimp ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Just add the sauce and combine everything when you’re ready to serve!
How do I know when the shrimp is cooked?
Perfectly cooked shrimp turns pink and opaque. It usually takes just a few minutes in the pan. Keep an eye on them so they don’t overcook; they can become rubbery if left too long!
Can I add vegetables to chicken and shrimp carbonara?
Definitely! Adding vegetables like spinach, peas, or bell peppers not only boosts the nutrition but also adds lovely color and texture. Just sauté them along with the chicken and shrimp for a delightful twist!
Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara: 7 Comforting Secrets Revealed
- Temps Total: 25 minutes
- Rendement: 2 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A delicious blend of chicken, shrimp, and creamy carbonara sauce.
Ingrédients
- 200g spaghetti
- 150g chicken breast, diced
- 150g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 100ml heavy cream
- 50g grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add chicken and cook until browned.
- Add shrimp and garlic, cooking until shrimp turns pink.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Add cooked spaghetti to the pan and toss to combine.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh ingredients for best flavor.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Can substitute shrimp with other seafood or omit for a chicken-only dish.
- Temps De Préparation: 10 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 15 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 plate
- Calories: 600
- Sucre: 2g
- De Sodium: 800mg
- La graisse: 30g
- Graisses Saturées: 15g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 10g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 60g
- La fibre: 3g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 150mg
Mots-clés: chicken and shrimp carbonara, creamy pasta, Italian recipe
