Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss

Name: Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 8 oz spaghetti; 1 cup cooked chicken, diced; 1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined; 2 large eggs; 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; 4 oz cream; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt to taste; Pepper to taste

September 26, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my love for chicken and shrimp carbonara! This dish is like a warm hug on a plate—creamy, savory, and utterly comforting. I remember the first time I made it; I was trying to impress a friend who was visiting, and I just knew I had to whip up something special. The rich flavors of tender chicken and succulent shrimp mixed with the luscious carbonara sauce just dance together in perfect harmony. Plus, it’s so easy to make! Trust me, once you try this dish, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last bite. It’s a weeknight dinner that feels like a celebration!

chicken and shrimp carbonara - detail 1

Ingredients List

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz spaghetti: This is the star of the show! Use your favorite pasta, but spaghetti works wonders in soaking up that delicious sauce.
1 cup cooked chicken, diced: Any leftover chicken works great here. Just make sure it’s cooked through—tender and juicy is what we’re aiming for!
1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or frozen shrimp both do the trick! Just make sure they’re thawed and ready to go before you start cooking.
2 large eggs: These will help create that creamy carbonara sauce. Make sure they’re at room temperature for the best results!
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated: Freshly grated is always a hit! It adds that nutty, salty goodness that takes this dish to the next level.
4 oz cream: Heavy cream is the secret to that luscious texture—feel free to adjust based on how creamy you want it!
2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic is a must for that aromatic flavor. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this!
2 tbsp olive oil: This is what we’ll use to sauté the garlic, chicken, and shrimp. It adds a lovely richness!
Salt to taste: Just a pinch to enhance all those wonderful flavors!
Pepper to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper brings a little warmth to the dish. Add as much or as little as you like!

How to Prepare Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Alright, let’s dive into the deliciousness that is chicken and shrimp carbonara! It’s easier than you might think, and I promise you’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together. Ready? Let’s go!

Cooking the Pasta

First things first, let’s cook that spaghetti! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook according to the package instructions—usually around 8-10 minutes for al dente. Make sure to stir it occasionally, so it doesn’t stick together. My little secret? Reserve about half a cup of pasta water before draining. This starchy water can work wonders if you need to loosen up your sauce later!

Preparing the Sauce

While your pasta is cooking, it’s time to whip up that creamy sauce. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté until it’s fragrant—just about 30 seconds. Next, add the diced chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Cook them until the shrimp turns pink and the chicken is heated through, which should take about 5 minutes. Now, here comes the important part: in a bowl, whisk together the eggs, cream, and grated Parmesan cheese until it’s smooth and creamy. You want to be ready with this mixture because timing is key! Once your pasta is done and drained, you’ll want to move quickly to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Combining Ingredients

Now, it’s time for the magic! Remove the skillet from the heat and add the drained spaghetti right into the pan with the chicken and shrimp. Give it a gentle toss to combine everything. Then, pour in that luscious egg mixture while tossing the pasta continuously. The heat from the pasta will cook the eggs just enough to create a velvety sauce. If it seems a bit thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of that reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. Season with salt and freshly cracked pepper to taste, and voilà! You’ve got yourself a stunning chicken and shrimp carbonara. Serve immediately, and watch everyone’s eyes light up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to prepare: From start to finish, this dish comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights!
Rich and creamy: The combination of eggs, cream, and Parmesan creates a sauce that’s just heavenly and indulgent.
Flavor-packed: With tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and aromatic garlic, every bite is bursting with deliciousness.
Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding veggies like spinach or peas for a pop of color and nutrition.
Great for gatherings: Impress your friends and family with this restaurant-quality dish that feels special yet is super simple to make.
Comfort food at its best: This chicken and shrimp carbonara is the ultimate comfort food, making it a go-to for cozy nights in.

Tips for Success

Now, let’s make sure your chicken and shrimp carbonara turns out absolutely perfect! Here are some of my favorite tips that I swear by:

Ingredient quality matters: Use fresh ingredients whenever possible. Fresh shrimp, good quality Parmesan, and farm-fresh eggs will elevate your dish to a whole new level!
Don’t skip the pasta water: That starchy water is liquid gold! It helps bind the sauce to the pasta and adds a lovely silkiness, so don’t forget to reserve some before draining!
Room temperature eggs: Make sure your eggs are at room temperature before you whisk them with the cream and cheese. This helps them blend in smoothly without curdling when you add them to the hot pasta.
Timing is key: Be ready to mix the egg mixture with the pasta as soon as you drain it. This way, the residual heat cooks the eggs gently, giving you that luxurious texture without scrambling!
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add a splash of white wine to the skillet after cooking the shrimp for an extra depth of flavor. Just let it reduce before you add the pasta!
Customize your proteins: If you don’t have shrimp on hand, you can easily substitute it with scallops or even just stick with chicken for a simpler version.
Add veggies: Sneak in some peas, spinach, or roasted bell peppers to add color and nutrition. Just toss them in during the last minute of cooking the pasta!
Garnish generously: Don’t skimp on the extra Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or cracked black pepper before serving. It makes everything look and taste even better!

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a chicken and shrimp carbonara that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! This chicken and shrimp carbonara is not only delicious but also packs a punch in the nutrition department. Here’s a breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 600
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 250mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 35g

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. If you swap out any items, like using a different type of cheese or adding veggies, the nutritional content will change. So feel free to adjust according to your dietary needs! Enjoy every creamy, savory bite while knowing exactly what’s in your meal!

FAQ Section

Can I use different pasta for this chicken and shrimp carbonara?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is my go-to, you can use any pasta you love, like fettuccine or penne. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so check the package instructions.

What if I can’t find fresh shrimp?
No worries! Frozen shrimp works perfectly fine. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking, and they’ll be just as delicious in your carbonara.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
I’d recommend enjoying it fresh for the best texture, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the fridge for a day or two. Just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or pasta water to revive that creamy sauce!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken and shrimp ahead of time and store them separately from the pasta and sauce. Just combine everything when you’re ready to eat for a quick and tasty meal.

What can I substitute for the cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even Greek yogurt, but be careful with the heat to avoid curdling. Just stir it in off the heat!

Can I add vegetables to this carbonara?
Definitely! Toss in some spinach, peas, or even roasted red peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just make sure to cook them briefly so they remain vibrant and tender.

How do I avoid scrambling the eggs in the sauce?
The key is to remove the skillet from the heat before adding the egg mixture. Toss quickly and use the residual heat to cook the eggs gently. Timing is everything!

Is this chicken and shrimp carbonara dish kid-friendly?
You bet! Kids love creamy pasta dishes, and the flavors here are mild yet delicious. Just keep an eye on the pepper if they’re sensitive to spice!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have any leftovers of this delightful chicken and shrimp carbonara—though I doubt it will happen!—storing it properly is key to keeping that creamy goodness intact. Here’s how to do it:

First, let the carbonara cool down to room temperature before storing it. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can make it soggy. Once cooled, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for about 2 days. Just make sure to label it with the date, so you remember when you made this delicious dish!

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, I recommend reheating them gently. You can do this on the stovetop for the best results. Just add the carbonara to a skillet over low heat and stir in a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive that creamy texture. Stir frequently until it’s warmed through. If you prefer using the microwave, place the carbonara in a microwave-safe dish, cover it with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, and heat it in short intervals, stirring in between until heated to your liking. Just be careful not to overheat, or you might find those eggs scrambling again!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you can savor the rich flavors of chicken and shrimp carbonara even after the first meal. Enjoy every creamy bite, whether fresh or warmed up!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.