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Creamy Shrimp & Chicken Pasta with Garlic Butter Sauce
When it comes to pasta, I have a special spot in my heart for creamy dishes. There’s just something about the combination of shrimp, chicken, and a luscious garlic butter sauce that makes my taste buds do a happy dance. I remember the first time I made this dish for friends—it was a chaotic evening filled with laughter and the sounds of clinking glasses, and as we gathered around the table, the aroma wafting from the kitchen was enough to make anyone’s mouth water. If you’re looking for a quick, decadent dinner that impresses, you’re in for a treat!
This recipe combines the comfort of pasta with the bold flavors of garlic and creamy goodness, all in just about 30 minutes. It’s officially my go-to for busy weeknights or when I’m trying to impress with minimal effort. Who doesn’t love the sound of sizzling garlic in butter? Now, let’s dive into what you’ll need to create this deliciousness!
What’s in Creamy Shrimp & Chicken Pasta?
- 200g linguine or fettuccine pasta – I love using linguine for its ability to cling to that creamy sauce perfectly. Feel free to swap it with your favorite pasta!
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined – Make sure they’re fresh for the best flavor. Frozen shrimp works too, just thaw before using.
- 200g chicken breast, thinly sliced – This protein combo really takes the dish over the top. I often use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken to save time!
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter – Just enough to achieve that rich, buttery flavor without overwhelming.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced – The star of any good pasta sauce! If you love garlic, don’t be shy about adding an extra clove.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This creates the creamy base that hugs the pasta beautifully.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth – Adds depth of flavor; use low-sodium if you’re watching your salt intake.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Because there’s no such thing as too much cheese in my world!
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that ties the flavors together; fresh herbs work wonders too.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste – Always flavor to your preference. Remember, you can add more, but you can’t take it away!
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a fresh touch to our beautiful dish.
- Garlic bread, for serving – Because what’s pasta without a side of garlic bread, right?
Is Creamy Shrimp & Chicken Pasta Good for You?
This dish is mostly about indulgence, but it does have some upsides! Using chicken and shrimp provides lean protein that can contribute to muscle building and repair. Plus, the garlic adds a punch of flavor along with potential heart health benefits!
However, let’s be real—between the heavy cream and butter, this isn’t exactly a light meal. So, if you’re watching your caloric intake or saturated fat, you might want to consider alternatives. Using coconut milk or a lower-fat milk could lighten it up a bit without losing too much of that luscious creaminess!
Ingredients List
- 200g linguine or fettuccine pasta
- 200g shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 200g chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Garlic bread, for serving
How to Make Creamy Shrimp & Chicken Pasta?
- Cook the linguine or fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
- Add the chicken slices to the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and scrape up any bits from the bottom. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Allow to simmer for about 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
- Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Toss in the cooked pasta and stir to coat in the sauce.
- Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Cook for another minute to heat through.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by garlic bread.
Sharing is Caring: Tips & Tricks!
- For a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while cooking for that extra heat!
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
- Leftovers? Simply reheat in the microwave with a splash of milk to loosen up the sauce!
Now that you know how to whip up this mouthwatering pasta, I truly encourage you to give it a try! Gather your loved ones, share a plate of this creamy goodness, and don’t forget to tell me all about it! Happy cooking!
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