Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara: A Decadent Twist on a Classic Italian Favorite
A silky egg-enriched sauce and smoky bacon bring unmatched richness to every forkful.
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Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara
Carbonara is a much-loved Italian pasta dish known for its rich, creamy sauce and the irresistible combination of smoky bacon, aged cheese, and black pepper. Taking inspiration from classic recipes and popular Italian-American restaurant chains, this Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara variation elevates the original with the addition of juicy grilled chicken and succulent shrimp. The result is an indulgent, satisfying meal perfect for special occasions or whenever you crave a restaurant-quality dinner at home.
Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara
- Decadent Creamy Sauce: The blend of heavy cream, cheese, and eggs creates a luscious sauce that beautifully coats every strand of pasta.
- Perfect Protein Combo: Tender chicken and perfectly cooked shrimp make this a hearty and filling main dish.
- Smoky Bacon Flavor: Crispy bacon renders out its fat, infusing the sauce and proteins with an unmistakable smoky essence.
- Restaurant-Inspired: Reminiscent of popular Italian-American restaurant offerings, but easily prepared at home.
- Versatile and Customizable: Swap proteins or adjust seasoning to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
The key to outstanding Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara lies in using fresh, quality ingredients and preparing each component thoughtfully. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bacon | 8 slices | Smoked preferred, diced or cut into small pieces |
| Chicken breast | 1 lb | Boneless, skinless, cut into strips |
| Shrimp | 1 lb | Large, peeled and deveined |
| Pasta | 1 lb | Spaghetti or fettuccine work well |
| Garlic | 2 tbsp | Minced |
| Onion | 1 medium | Finely chopped |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup | For extra creaminess |
| Egg yolks | 4 | Tempered, for silkiness |
| Parmesan cheese | 1 cup | Freshly grated |
| Italian parsley | 2 tbsp | Chopped, for garnish |
| Salt and black pepper | To taste | |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | For sautéing |
Directions
- Prepare the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, reserving the rendered fat in the pan.
- Sauté Chicken: Season chicken strips with salt and pepper. In the same pan with the bacon fat, add chicken and cook over medium-high heat until golden and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: Add a bit of olive oil if needed, then add shrimp to the pan. Sauté until opaque and pink, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add onions and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Make the Sauce: Lower the heat and return the cooked bacon, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add most of the Parmesan cheese (reserve a little for garnish) and stir until melted.
- Temper the Eggs: In a small bowl, whisk egg yolks. Slowly add some hot pasta water while whisking to temper the eggs—this prevents scrambling when added to the hot pan.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta to the skillet; toss to coat in the sauce. Remove the skillet from heat, then pour in the tempered eggs, stirring quickly to create a glossy, creamy sauce. If it seems too thick, add reserved pasta water a few tablespoons at a time until desired consistency is reached.
- Finish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and chopped parsley.
- Serve: Plate immediately while hot, garnishing each serving with additional bacon and parsley if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Carbonara
- Use Room-Temperature Eggs: This helps them combine smoothly without curdling when added to hot pasta.
- Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy water is key for adjusting the creaminess and helping the sauce cling to the noodles.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the proteins in batches if needed to ensure even browning.
- Quality Matters: Freshly grated Parmesan and high-quality bacon elevate the flavors significantly.
- Serve Immediately: Carbonara is at its best freshly made; the sauce can thicken and dry out if left sitting too long.
Variations and Substitutions
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken and shrimp, and substitute smoked mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a meatless meal.
- Lighter Option: Use half-and-half or a blend of whole milk and cream to reduce richness.
- Pasta Choices: Spaghetti is traditional, but fettuccine, penne, or linguine also work well.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers for gentle heat.
- Cheese Varieties: Try blending Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.
What to Serve With Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara
- Simple Caesar Salad: The crisp greens and tangy dressing balance the creaminess of the pasta.
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for soaking up any extra sauce.
- Steamed or Roasted Vegetables: Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans are excellent sides.
- Light White Wine: A Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs beautifully.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The sauce may thicken—add a splash of cream or water when reheating.
- Not Freezer-Friendly: Creamy sauces with eggs typically don’t freeze well as the texture can separate.
- Make Ahead: Prepare proteins and chop vegetables in advance for faster assembly at dinnertime.
What others are reading
Nutrition Information
While indulgent, this dish is packed with protein and substantial enough to be a one-pot meal. For those watching calories or fat, portion size and ingredient swaps (such as leaner bacon and lighter cream) can help balance nutrition.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approximate) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 750 |
| Protein | 45g |
| Carbohydrates | 60g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Sodium | 1100mg |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use cooked rotisserie chicken instead of raw chicken breast?
A: Yes, shredded rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver. Add it near the end of cooking to prevent drying out.
Q: What is the best pasta for carbonara?
A: Spaghetti or fettuccine are traditional, but any long pasta shape that holds sauce well will work.
Q: How do I avoid scrambled eggs in my sauce?
A: Temper the eggs by slowly whisking in hot pasta water before adding to the pan, and remove the skillet from heat before combining.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Absolutely! Simply substitute gluten-free pasta and confirm all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Q: Is there a dairy-free option?
A: You can experiment with dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives, but the classic creamy texture may be difficult to replicate exactly.
Expert Tips for Success
- Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can prevent smooth melting.
- Don’t Overcook Proteins: Both chicken and shrimp can become dry and rubbery if overcooked. Remove from the heat as soon as they are done.
- Keep the Sauce Creamy: Work quickly when combining the hot pasta with the sauce and eggs. The residual heat should cook the eggs gently for a silky sauce.
- Garnish Before Serving: A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper and extra Parmesan cheese adds that finishing touch.
Serving Suggestions & Presentation
Serve Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara immediately, family-style in a large serving bowl or individually plated. Sprinkle each serving with extra bacon bits, chopped parsley, and a light dusting of grated Parmesan. Pair with a fresh green salad and a crisp glass of white wine for a memorable meal.
Other Carbonara-Inspired Dishes
- Loaded Chicken Carbonara: Add peas, sun-dried tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra color and flavor.
- Four-Cheese Carbonara: Blend Parmesan, Romano, Asiago, and Mozzarella for an ultra-cheesy experience.
- Shrimp-Only Carbonara: Omit the chicken for a lighter, seafood-forward dish.
- Vegetable Carbonara: Incorporate roasted broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers for a vegetarian spin.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor at home and celebrates the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. Whether you keep it classic or customize it with your favorite additions, it’s sure to become a favorite comfort food for your table.
References
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/chicken-and-shrimp-carbonara-allrecipes-in-2025–21744010695240133/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/277129/four-cheese-chicken-carbonara/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/263496/shrimp-carbonara/
- https://www.pinterest.com/pin/857091372850392928/
- https://www.allrecipes.com/recipes/17540/main-dish/pasta/pasta-carbonara/
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