Last updated on October 26th, 2024 at 02:12 pm
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Recipe for shrimp and chicken Alfredo is always the best choose! As a busy parent, I’m always searching for quick, tasty meals for my family. This shrimp and chicken Alfredo recipe is a favorite at home. It’s creamy, flavorful, and fills us up.
This meal is special because of its perfect mix of tastes. The Alfredo sauce is rich, the chicken and shrimp are savory, and the fettuccine is just right. It’s both a treat and a healthy choice for dinner or a cozy night.
Key Takeaways
- Creamy Cajun-inspired Alfredo sauce with tender chicken and shrimp
- Easy to prepare, making it a great weeknight meal option
- Combines two protein sources for a satisfying and nutrient-dense dish
- Versatile pasta dish that can be enjoyed year-round
- Flavorful and comforting, with a balance of richness and freshness
Introduction to Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo
Get ready to enjoy a delicious dish – shrimp and chicken alfredo. This Cajun-inspired dish mixes creamy alfredo sauce with sautéed shrimp and chicken. It’s a meal that tastes like it came from a restaurant, packed with protein.
A Flavorful Creamy Dish
The secret to this recipe is the rich alfredo sauce. It’s based on a Quick and Easy Alfredo Sauce recipe. It combines butter, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese for a creamy taste. A hint of Cajun seasoning adds a special kick.
Combining Two Proteins for Convenience
This dish has both shrimp and chicken, offering a mix of textures and tastes. Having two proteins in one makes dinner easy and nutritious. You won’t have to cook separate parts.
“The creamy alfredo sauce is the star of this dish, complementing the tender shrimp and juicy chicken perfectly. It’s a protein-packed meal that’s sure to become a new family favorite.”
Ingredients Needed
To make this tasty Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo, you’ll need a few important items. You will need 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenderloins. Also, 1 pound of large or jumbo shrimp is required.
For the creamy Cajun-inspired Alfredo sauce, you’ll need unsalted butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream. You’ll also need garlic, Cajun seasoning, and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Pasta and Protein
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or tenders
- 1 pound of large or jumbo shrimp
- 1 pound of fettuccine pasta
Cajun-Inspired Alfredo Sauce Ingredients
- 3 ounces (6 tablespoons) of unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup of extra-virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of coarsely chopped fresh basil
- 1 tablespoon of coarsely chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon of kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 4 ounces of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese
With these ingredients, you’re ready to make a delicious Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo. It’s sure to wow your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preparing the shrimp and chicken for your tasty Alfredo dish. First, thaw the shrimp if it’s frozen, then rinse and pat them dry. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes. Season both the shrimp and chicken with garlic powder and Cajun seasoning for extra flavor.
Preparing the Shrimp and Chicken
- Thaw the shrimp if frozen, rinse them, and pat them dry.
- Cut the chicken into 1-inch bite-sized pieces.
- Season the shrimp and chicken with garlic powder and Cajun seasoning.
Making the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Now, let’s make the creamy Alfredo sauce. In the same skillet, melt butter and cream cheese. Add heavy cream, grated Parmesan, and a few seasonings. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and velvety.
- Melt butter and cream cheese in a skillet over medium heat.
- Pour in heavy cream and whisk to combine.
- Stir in grated Parmesan, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Whisk the sauce until it’s smooth and creamy.
With the shrimp, chicken, and Alfredo sauce ready, you’re almost there. You’re on your way to a delicious homemade shrimp and chicken alfredo dish. Keep going to finish the recipe.
recipe for shrimp and chicken
Get ready to enjoy a tasty shrimp and chicken Alfredo dish. It’s a mix of seafood and poultry that’s creamy and flavorful. It’s great for a dinner that will satisfy you any night.
Ingredients:
- 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces fettuccine pasta
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
This shrimp and chicken Alfredo recipe is a mix of tender proteins, creamy sauce, and cooked pasta. The Cajun seasoning gives it a spicy kick that balances the richness.
Instructions:
- Boil a large pot of salted water. Cook the fettuccine until it’s al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and shrimp, seasoned with Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Cook, stirring now and then, until the chicken is done and the shrimp are pink, about 8-10 minutes.
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add the garlic to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
- Add the heavy cream and mix in the Parmesan cheese. Simmer, stirring now and then, until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet and toss to coat the noodles evenly with the Alfredo sauce.
- Serve the shrimp and chicken Alfredo right away, topped with more Parmesan cheese and parsley if you like.
Enjoy this delicious shrimp and chicken Alfredo recipe. It’s a mix of creamy Alfredo sauce, tender chicken, and juicy shrimp for a satisfying meal.
Cooking the Pasta and Proteins
To make the perfect Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo, cooking the pasta and proteins is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Cook the fettuccine pasta as the package says until it’s al dente. Then, drain it and put it aside.
- In a big skillet, cook the seasoned shrimp over medium-high heat. They should turn pink and be cooked through in 3-5 minutes on each side. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook the seasoned chicken until it’s fully cooked and not pink anymore. This should take about 6-8 minutes on each side. Cut the chicken into small pieces.
Cooking the pasta and proteins separately makes sure each part is just right. This way, your Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo will have the best texture and taste.
“The secret to an exceptional Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo lies in the precise preparation of each ingredient. By cooking the pasta and proteins separately, you can ensure that every bite is perfectly cooked and flavorful.”
Tips for Perfect Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo
Making the perfect shrimp and chicken Alfredo is more than just a recipe. To improve your cooking, try these tips. They will help you make a dish that stands out.
Seasoning Recommendations
For seasoning, a Cajun-inspired blend can add a great flavor to your Alfredo sauce. Choose a low-sodium or no-salt-added Cajun seasoning. This balances the cream and cheese without overpowering the dish.
Kitchen Tools for Easy Preparation
- Garlic press: Mincing garlic by hand can be time-consuming, but a garlic press can quickly and efficiently mince the cloves for your sauce.
- Zester: Using a zester to grate fresh Parmesan cheese will create a finer, more evenly distributed texture in your Alfredo sauce.
- Large skillet: A spacious skillet will allow you to sauté the shrimp and chicken without overcrowding, ensuring even cooking.
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
Dry Fettuccine Pasta | 8 oz |
Chicken Breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces | – |
Large Shrimp, peeled and deveined | 0.5 lbs |
All-Purpose Flour | – |
Heavy Whipping Cream | 1.5 cups |
Cajun Seasoning (low or no-salt) | – |
Parmesan Cheese, grated | – |
By following these tips and using the right tools, you’ll make a shrimp and chicken Alfredo that’s both tasty and simple to make.
Customizing the Dish
Shrimp and chicken Alfredo is super versatile. You can make it your own by adding veggies, trying new proteins, or making it healthier. There are many ways to customize this classic dish.
Vegetable Additions
Adding sautéed veggies is a great idea. Try broccoli, spinach, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes. They add color and fresh taste to the creamy sauce. You can mix veggies for a healthier, more colorful meal.
Protein Substitutions
Shrimp and chicken are common, but you can try other proteins. Salmon, scallops, or seared steak are good choices. For a meatless option, baked tofu, grilled portobello mushrooms, or chickpeas are great.
Alfredo Pasta Variations | Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo Modifications | Healthy Alfredo Substitutions |
---|---|---|
Broccoli Alfredo | Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo | Cauliflower Alfredo |
Spinach Alfredo | Blackened Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo | Zucchini Noodle Alfredo |
Roasted Red Pepper Alfredo | Grilled Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo | Creamy Cashew Alfredo |
Try different veggies and proteins to make your own version of shrimp and chicken Alfredo. It’s a fun way to make the dish your own and fit your dietary needs.
Serving and Presentation Ideas
Make your shrimp and chicken Alfredo dish stand out with these easy tips. Start by placing the creamy pasta on a bed of fresh greens or on top of zucchini noodles. This adds a light, veggie twist. Finish it off with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and a squeeze of lemon juice for a perfect balance.
For a stunning look, arrange the shrimp and chicken Alfredo in a circle on the plate. Place the pasta in the center and the proteins around it. This makes the dish both beautiful and easy to eat.
- Add fresh chopped parsley or basil for color and a fresh scent.
- Pair the shrimp and chicken Alfredo with warm garlic bread for dipping.
- Offer toppings like diced tomatoes, black olives, or breadcrumbs for personal touches.
By focusing on the presentation of your shrimp and chicken Alfredo, you can make a great meal even more special. It becomes a memorable dining experience.
Conclusion
The shrimp and chicken Alfredo recipe is a true masterpiece. It combines juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and a creamy Alfredo sauce. This mix takes your meal to a whole new level. With over 11,770 shares, it’s clear many love its perfect flavors and easy one-pan cooking.
This dish uses 12 ounces of penne pasta and 1 pound each of shrimp and chicken. Each ingredient is chosen for its role in creating a delicious mix of textures and tastes. The Alfredo sauce, with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and white wine, adds a rich, velvety touch.
Looking for a great dinner or a dish to impress at your next event? This shrimp and chicken Alfredo is perfect. It’s packed with protein, has moderate carbs, and plenty of fat. It’s a balanced, tasty meal for everyone. Try it and enjoy the creamy, comforting flavors that make it stand out.
FAQ
What are the main ingredients in this shrimp and chicken Alfredo recipe?
The main ingredients are fettuccine pasta, chicken breasts, and shrimp. You’ll also need butter, cream cheese, and heavy cream. Garlic, Cajun seasoning, and parmesan cheese are also key.
How do I prepare the shrimp and chicken for the Alfredo dish?
First, thaw and prep the shrimp. Cut the chicken into small pieces. Season both with garlic powder and Cajun seasoning before cooking.
What makes the Alfredo sauce in this recipe special?
The Alfredo sauce gets a Cajun twist. It includes Cajun seasoning, along with butter, cream cheese, heavy cream, and parmesan cheese. This mix creates a zesty, flavorful sauce.
Can I make any substitutions or customizations to this shrimp and chicken Alfredo dish?
Yes, you can add sautéed veggies like broccoli or spinach. You can also swap the proteins with salmon or scallops.
What are some tips for making the perfect shrimp and chicken Alfredo?
Use low or no-salt Cajun seasoning. Helpful tools include a garlic press, zester, and large skillet. These make prep easier.