The Best Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe

I. Introduction

Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a dish that brings together the best of both worlds—succulent chicken and tender shrimp in a creamy, flavorful Alfredo sauce. This perfect combination of seafood and poultry creates a dish that is both hearty and satisfying, making it an ideal choice for a comforting meal. The rich, velvety sauce coats the pasta beautifully, creating a smooth and indulgent bite that’s guaranteed to please. Whether served for a special occasion or as a weeknight dinner, this dish offers an incredible balance of flavors that appeals to all taste buds.

One of the best things about Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is how easy it is to prepare at home. With just a few simple ingredients—chicken, shrimp, pasta, cream, garlic, and Parmesan—you can create a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel like a gourmet chef without the complicated steps, which is why it’s beloved by so many.

This dish has become a staple at restaurants, including popular spots like the Cheesecake Factory, where you can enjoy variations like their Bang Bang Chicken and Shrimp. These variations add a spicy twist to the traditional Alfredo, making it even more exciting for those looking for a bit of heat. Whether you enjoy the classic style or explore these creative takes, Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a timeless favorite that never disappoints.

II. Ingredients Table

This table lists all the essential ingredients for your Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo, with measurements and a brief note on each item’s preparation.

III. How to Make Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients – Season and Cook the Chicken and Shrimp

To start, gather all your ingredients and prep them. Begin by seasoning the chicken breasts with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor. Slice the chicken into thin strips or bite-sized pieces—this helps the chicken cook quickly and ensures it’s easy to incorporate into the pasta. Set the chicken aside for now.

Next, prepare the shrimp. If you haven’t already, peel and devein the shrimp. Make sure to remove the tails as well for easier eating. Lightly season the shrimp with salt and pepper, allowing their flavor to shine through in the final dish.

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken strips. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally until it’s golden brown on all sides and cooked through. Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pan and set it aside.

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed, and toss in the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and are cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. Once done, remove the shrimp and set them aside with the chicken.

Step 2: Cook the Fettuccine – Perfectly Al Dente Pasta for a Balanced Texture

While the chicken and shrimp are cooking, it’s the perfect time to get the pasta ready. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine pasta and cook according to the package instructions—usually around 10-12 minutes for al dente pasta. Be sure to taste test toward the end of cooking to make sure it’s perfectly tender but still firm.

Once the pasta is done, drain it, but reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water. This starchy water will help bind the sauce to the noodles, making it even creamier. Set the cooked pasta aside until it’s time to combine everything.

Step 3: Make the Alfredo Sauce – Creamy, Rich Sauce with Butter, Garlic, and Cream

Now comes the star of the dish—the Alfredo sauce. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken and shrimp, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. The pan should still have a bit of oil and seasoning left, adding extra flavor to the sauce.

Once the butter is melted, add 3 cloves of minced garlic to the pan. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute, just until fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can add a bitter flavor to the sauce.

Next, pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, stirring constantly to combine with the garlic and butter. Allow the cream to simmer for 2-3 minutes, thickening slightly. This is the base of your rich, creamy Alfredo sauce.

Once the cream has thickened a bit, stir in 1/2 cup of low-sodium chicken broth. The broth adds a layer of flavor and balances the richness of the cream. Let the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Finally, slowly stir in 1 cup of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it up and create a silky consistency.

Step 4: Combine and Serve – Toss the Pasta, Chicken, and Shrimp Together in the Sauce

With the sauce ready, it’s time to bring everything together. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, and gently toss to coat the noodles in the creamy sauce. The pasta should be completely enveloped in the rich sauce.

Next, return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet, adding them to the pasta. Gently stir everything together, making sure the chicken and shrimp are evenly distributed throughout the pasta. You should now have a perfect mixture of tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and creamy, flavorful Alfredo sauce.

If the sauce has thickened too much while sitting, you can add a bit more of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve – Add Parmesan and Fresh Parsley for a Beautiful Presentation

For the finishing touch, garnish the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley. The Parmesan adds an extra burst of flavor, while the parsley provides a fresh, vibrant contrast to the creamy sauce. This also gives the dish a beautiful pop of color, making it as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Serve the Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo immediately, while it’s hot and the sauce is still velvety smooth. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad to complete the meal.

Enjoy your homemade Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo—a delightful dish that’s rich in flavor, easy to prepare, and sure to impress anyone you serve it to!

IV. Tips for Making Perfect Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo

1. How to Avoid Overcooking the Shrimp
Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooking them is a common mistake. To prevent this, keep an eye on the shrimp while they’re in the skillet. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the pan. Typically, shrimp need just 2-3 minutes per side to cook through. Overcooking can result in rubbery shrimp, so once they’re done, set them aside immediately to prevent further cooking from the residual heat in the pan.

2. Ways to Adjust the Sauce Thickness and Creaminess
The perfect Alfredo sauce should be creamy but not too thick or too thin. If you find your sauce is too thick, simply add a bit of reserved pasta water, one tablespoon at a time, stirring to incorporate. The starchy water helps the sauce adhere to the pasta and smooth it out. If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce and thicken naturally. You can also add an extra tablespoon of Parmesan cheese to help thicken the sauce while enhancing its flavor.

3. How to Balance the Seasoning and Flavors
The key to a flavorful Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is balancing the seasoning. Always season your chicken and shrimp lightly with salt and pepper, but remember that the Alfredo sauce will also need seasoning. Taste the sauce as you go and adjust with additional salt, black pepper, or even a pinch of garlic powder. For a little extra flavor complexity, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to brighten the dish and balance the richness of the cream.

4. Suggestions for Serving with Sides
While Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is hearty and filling on its own, pairing it with complementary sides can elevate the meal. A classic option is garlic bread, which provides a satisfying crunch and an extra boost of flavor. Steamed vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or green beans also make great additions, offering a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can cut through the richness of the dish, making it a well-rounded meal.

5. Variations Like Adding Veggies (Broccoli, Spinach)
To give your Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo a nutritional boost, consider adding vegetables to the dish. Broccoli is a popular choice, adding color and texture, while spinach wilts nicely into the sauce for a more delicate flavor. To include veggies, simply steam or sauté them separately and toss them into the pasta when combining the chicken and shrimp. You can also try roasted bell peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for a bit of sweetness and extra depth in the dish. These variations not only make the dish more colorful and nutritious but also introduce exciting flavors that complement the creamy Alfredo sauce.

V. Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Variations

1. Bang Bang Chicken and Shrimp Cheesecake Factory Style – Add a Spicy Twist with a Bang Bang Sauce For those who enjoy a little heat, a Bang Bang Chicken and Shrimp variation adds a spicy, creamy twist to the traditional Alfredo.

To create a “Bang Bang” sauce, mix together mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, and a touch of honey. This tangy, spicy sauce can be drizzled over the chicken and shrimp before adding them to the pasta, or you can fold it into the Alfredo sauce for a deeper infusion of flavor. The sweet and spicy notes of the Bang Bang sauce beautifully complement the richness of the Alfredo, giving the dish an exciting new dimension. If you’re a fan of heat, you can adjust the amount of sriracha to your liking.

2. Shrimp Chicken Alfredo with Spinach and Tomatoes – Adding More Vegetables for a Healthier Version
For a healthier and more colorful variation, try adding spinach and tomatoes to your Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo. Fresh spinach wilts nicely into the creamy Alfredo sauce, providing a burst of vitamins and minerals without overpowering the dish. You can either use fresh spinach or frozen spinach that’s been thawed and drained. Tomatoes add a touch of sweetness and acidity, balancing the rich, creamy sauce. Simply slice the tomatoes and add them in when you’re combining the chicken, shrimp, and pasta. This variation is a great way to sneak in extra veggies while maintaining the creamy comfort you love.

3. Lightened-Up Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo – Use Lighter Cream or Dairy-Free Alternatives
If you’re looking to cut back on calories or make a dairy-free version, consider lightening up your Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo. Instead of heavy cream, use a lighter version, such as half-and-half or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. You can also substitute regular Parmesan with a reduced-fat version or a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. For the sauce, try adding a bit of flour or cornstarch to help thicken it without the need for as much cream. This variation still gives you the creamy, comforting texture of Alfredo but with fewer calories and a lighter feel—perfect for those watching their diet.

4. Fettuccine Alfredo with Shrimp and Chicken – The Classic Combo
Sometimes, there’s nothing better than sticking to the classics. Fettuccine Alfredo with shrimp and chicken is the traditional, beloved version of this dish. The thick, ribbon-like texture of fettuccine holds the creamy Alfredo sauce perfectly, creating a decadent meal. While this is the simplest variation, it’s also the most satisfying, letting the flavors of the chicken, shrimp, and creamy sauce shine through without distraction. You can’t go wrong with this classic combination, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Feel free to experiment with other pastas, but fettuccine remains the ultimate choice for many.

VI. Benefits of Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo

1. Nutritional Value of the Dish (Protein, Calcium, etc.)
Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is not only delicious but also packed with important nutrients. Both Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo are excellent sources of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall health. A 3-ounce serving of chicken provides around 25 grams of protein, while shrimp offers approximately 20 grams per 3 ounces. Additionally, the Parmesan cheese in the Alfredo sauce adds a good amount of calcium, promoting bone health. The heavy cream contributes some healthy fats, although in moderation. If you add vegetables like spinach or tomatoes, they enhance the dish’s vitamin and mineral profile, providing a boost of fiber, antioxidants, and other essential nutrients.

2. Benefits of Shrimp and Chicken in a Meal
Both shrimp and chicken bring their unique health benefits to this dish. Chicken, particularly lean cuts like breast meat, is low in fat and high in protein, making it a great option for those aiming to build or maintain muscle mass. It’s also a good source of B vitamins, which are essential for energy production and maintaining a healthy nervous system.

Shrimp, on the other hand, is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for supporting heart health. It’s also rich in selenium, a mineral that plays a key role in antioxidant defense and thyroid function. The combination of these two proteins in Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo ensures a balanced, nutrient-dense meal that satisfies your appetite while supporting overall well-being.

3. Why It’s a Great Option for Meal Prep
Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is an excellent choice for meal prep. The dish stores well in the refrigerator for several days, making it convenient for busy individuals or families who want to have a delicious, home-cooked meal on hand throughout the week. The creamy Alfredo sauce helps keep the pasta and proteins moist even after being refrigerated. Simply reheat the meal in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick, satisfying lunch or dinner. If you want to save even more time, you can prepare the chicken and shrimp ahead of time and store them separately from the pasta and sauce until you’re ready to combine them.

4. How to Balance Indulgence and Nutrition in a Comfort Food Recipe
Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is undeniably indulgent, thanks to its rich, creamy sauce. However, you can balance the indulgence with nutrition by making simple adjustments. For example, use whole-grain or gluten-free pasta for added fiber and nutrients.

You can also lighten up the sauce by using lighter cream or non-dairy alternatives, reducing the calorie count without sacrificing flavor. Adding vegetables like spinach, broccoli, or tomatoes not only makes the dish more colorful but also provides extra vitamins and fiber, helping to balance out the richness of the Alfredo sauce. By making a few thoughtful tweaks, you can enjoy the comfort of Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo while still nourishing your body with a healthy, well-rounded meal.

VII. Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the Chicken and Shrimp
One of the most common mistakes in making Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is overcooking the Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, while overcooked shrimp turn rubbery and lose their delicate texture. To avoid this, cook the chicken over medium heat, allowing it to sear and cook through without drying out. For shrimp, remember that they cook very quickly, usually within 2-3 minutes per side. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the heat immediately to prevent them from becoming overdone.

2. Making the Sauce Too Thin or Too Thick
Achieving the perfect Alfredo sauce consistency can be tricky. If your sauce is too thin, it won’t coat the pasta and proteins properly, and if it’s too thick, it will be difficult to mix with the pasta. To avoid a thin sauce, let it simmer gently to reduce and thicken. If it becomes too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. To prevent it from getting too thick, make sure you don’t cook it for too long on high heat. Adjust the thickness gradually, and remember that the sauce will thicken slightly as it cools, so stop cooking just before it reaches the desired consistency.

3. Not Seasoning Enough to Bring Out the Flavor
A bland Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo can be disappointing, so don’t skimp on the seasoning. Season the chicken and shrimp with salt and pepper, and make sure the Alfredo sauce is well-seasoned as well. Taste the sauce before combining the ingredients, adjusting with more salt, pepper, or even garlic powder. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a small pinch of nutmeg, which is a traditional ingredient in Alfredo sauce, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to add brightness and balance the richness.

4. Tips on Preventing the Pasta from Clumping Together
Nothing is worse than clumpy pasta in a creamy dish. To prevent this, make sure you cook the pasta in a large pot with plenty of water. Stir the pasta occasionally while it cooks to prevent it from sticking. After draining, immediately toss the pasta with a bit of olive oil or butter to keep it from clumping together before you add the sauce. If the pasta does start to stick after mixing, adding a little pasta water can help loosen it and create a smooth, creamy coating.

VIII. FAQs About Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo

IX. Conclusion

Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a wonderfully indulgent yet easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a creamy, flavorful meal that combines the richness of Alfredo sauce with the satisfying protein of chicken and shrimp. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations, like adding veggies, adjusting the sauce’s thickness, or trying out a spicy Bang Bang twist. The possibilities are endless!

We hope this recipe inspires you to give it a try and make it your own. If you have any questions or would like to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment below. We’d love to hear how your version turned out and any creative tweaks you made! Happy cooking!