Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something flavorful, satisfying, and surprisingly quick to make? Then look no further! This Chicken Shrimp Carbonara recipe is your answer. It's a delightful twist on the classic carbonara, incorporating tender chicken and succulent shrimp for a protein-packed, healthy meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special occasion, this easy recipe delivers a burst of deliciousness that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces pasta (spaghetti or linguine recommended)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese, plus extra for serving
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Shrimp
While the pasta is cooking, 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 from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, Pecorino Romano cheese, Parmesan cheese, and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet and cook, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens slightly. This should only take a minute or two – be careful not to overcook, or the eggs will scramble.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat the pasta evenly in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
Stir in the chopped parsley. Serve immediately, topped with extra Pecorino Romano cheese and freshly ground black pepper.
Cooking Tips for a Perfect Carbonara:
- Don't overcook the pasta: Al dente pasta is key to a great carbonara.
- Low and slow for the sauce: Gentle heat is essential for a smooth, creamy sauce that doesn't scramble.
- Use high-quality cheese: The cheese is the star of the show! Pecorino Romano adds a sharp, salty flavor that complements the richness of the sauce.
- Fresh parsley is a must: It adds a pop of freshness and color.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Carbonara: Omit the chicken and shrimp and add roasted vegetables like broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Spicy Carbonara: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a kick.
- Creamier Carbonara: Increase the amount of heavy cream to 3/4 cup for an extra rich sauce.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 500-600 Protein: 35-40g Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Chicken Shrimp Carbonara is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious meal that's perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!