Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Garlic Shrimp
Indulge in the rich and creamy goodness of Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Garlic Shrimp. This dish combines tender chicken and succulent shrimp in a luxurious Alfredo sauce that clings to fettuccine noodles. Perfect for a cozy dinner or impressing your guests, this recipe is a must-try for pasta lovers.
Ingredients
For the Pasta and Protein:
- 12 oz fettuccine pasta
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
For the Alfredo Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional:
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (for added heat)
Instructions
Preparing the Pasta
- Cook the Fettuccine: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
Cooking the Chicken
- Season the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
- Sauté the Chicken: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and let it rest while you prepare the shrimp.
Making the Garlic Shrimp
- Sauté the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the shrimp, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preparing the Alfredo Sauce
- Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the heavy cream, allowing it to simmer for 2-3 minutes. Gradually whisk in the Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Add nutmeg and adjust seasoning if needed.
Combining Everything
- Toss the Pasta: Add the drained fettuccine to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat evenly. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add the reserved pasta water until you reach the desired consistency.
- Add Chicken and Shrimp: Slice the chicken and add it to the pasta along with the garlic shrimp. Toss gently to combine all the ingredients, ensuring everything is well coated in the creamy sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Plate and Garnish: Serve the creamy chicken fettuccine Alfredo in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. For an extra zing, serve with lemon wedges and crushed red pepper flakes on the side.
Cooking Tips
- Ingredient Quality: Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the Parmesan cheese. Freshly grated cheese melts better and enhances the sauce’s creaminess.
- Pasta Cooking: Always save some pasta water! It’s the magic ingredient that helps adjust the sauce’s thickness and adds starch for better adherence.
- Shrimp Swap: Feel free to substitute shrimp with scallops or even add vegetables like spinach or broccoli for a healthier twist.
Variations
- Gluten-Free Option: Replace fettuccine with gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten intolerances.
- Dairy-Free Adaptation: Use coconut cream and nutritional yeast for a dairy-free version.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Chicken Fettuccine Alfredo with Garlic Shrimp is pure comfort food, combining creamy textures and rich flavors. It’s perfect for date nights, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress. Consider pairing this dish with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay, or a refreshing salad to balance the richness.
For more culinary inspiration, check out these related articles: 5 Classic Italian Pasta Recipes and How to Cook Perfect Shrimp Every Time.
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