Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavor? Then look no further! This Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo recipe is the perfect answer for a delicious and satisfying meal. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a restaurant-quality taste right in your own kitchen. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this quick dinner idea that’s both healthy and incredibly flavorful.
Ingredients: You'll need these pantry staples and fresh delights!
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, chicken broth can be substituted)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound fettuccine pasta
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Alfredo Perfection
Step 1: Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken and Shrimp: While the pasta cooks, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Alfredo Sauce: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the white wine (or chicken broth) and let it simmer for a minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate. Stir in the diced tomatoes, heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Step 4: Combine and Serve: Add the cooked chicken and shrimp back to the skillet. Stir in the cooked fettuccine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little pasta water until you reach your desired consistency. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley if desired.
Cooking Tips for Extra Deliciousness:
- Don't overcook the shrimp! Overcooked shrimp becomes rubbery. Cook just until pink and opaque.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains cellulose, which can affect the sauce's texture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to add more salt, pepper, or garlic to suit your preferences.
- Add some spice: For a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for a truly satisfying dinner.
Delicious Variations:
- Add vegetables: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Use different protein: Substitute the chicken and shrimp with sausage, scallops, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Creamy Tomato Alfredo: Enhance the tomato flavor by adding a tablespoon of tomato paste to the sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a balanced meal with protein from chicken and shrimp, carbohydrates from pasta, and healthy fats from olive oil and Parmesan cheese. The exact nutritional content will vary depending on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes. Consider using a nutrition calculator for a more precise analysis. This dish is relatively high in calories and fat, due to the cream and cheese, so enjoy it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
This Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo recipe is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!