Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara: 5 Steps to a Creamy Delight

September 1, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Let me tell you, there’s something absolutely magical about chicken and shrimp carbonara! This creamy pasta dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth with every single bite. The rich carbonara sauce clings to the spaghetti, while the tender chicken and succulent shrimp add layers of flavor that just dance on your palate. I remember the first time I made this dish – I was trying to impress my friends, and boy, did it work! They were blown away by how indulgent it tasted, yet it was so simple to whip up. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become a go-to favorite for cozy dinners or even special occasions. You’ll love how it fills the kitchen with a delicious aroma that invites everyone to the table!

chicken and shrimp carbonara - detail 1

Ingredients List

Gather these simple yet essential ingredients to create your mouthwatering chicken and shrimp carbonara:

8 oz spaghetti
1 cup cooked chicken, diced
1 cup shrimp, peeled and deveined
4 oz pancetta or bacon, diced
2 large eggs
1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
Chopped parsley for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor. You can adjust the amount of cheese to your liking, and if you’re feeling adventurous, feel free to swap out the shrimp for your favorite seafood! Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Instructions

Cook the Spaghetti

First things first, let’s get that spaghetti cooking! Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. I usually add about a tablespoon of salt; it really enhances the pasta’s flavor. Once boiling, toss in your 8 oz of spaghetti and cook it according to the package instructions, typically around 8-10 minutes for al dente perfection. Don’t forget to stir occasionally to prevent sticking! Once it’s done, drain it well, but save a cup of that starchy pasta water just in case you need to loosen up the sauce later. Set the spaghetti aside and let it hang out while we work on the sauce.

Prepare the Sauce

Now, let’s turn our attention to the sauce, which is the heart of this dish! In a large skillet, heat up 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add in your 4 oz of diced pancetta or bacon. Cook it until it’s golden and crispy, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Oh, the smell is heavenly! Next, throw in the minced garlic and sauté it for about a minute until fragrant—be careful not to burn it! Then, add in your cooked chicken and shrimp. Cook the shrimp until they turn pink, which takes about 3-4 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they curl up and look beautiful!

Combine Ingredients

Alright, it’s time to bring it all together! In a bowl, whisk together the 2 large eggs and 1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Once the shrimp are perfectly pink and the chicken is heated through, take the skillet off the heat. Now, add in your cooked spaghetti and toss everything together! This is where you want to move quickly—while the pasta is still hot, pour the egg and cheese mixture over it and mix thoroughly. The heat from the pasta will gently cook the eggs, creating that luscious creamy sauce. If it feels a bit thick, just add a splash of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired creaminess. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional data for a serving of my delicious chicken and shrimp carbonara. Keep in mind that these values are approximations based on common ingredients used:

Calories: 600
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 70g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 3g
Protein: 35g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 200mg

This dish is not just a treat for your taste buds but also packs a good punch of protein and satisfying fats, making it a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy every bite without the guilt!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy preparation – you can have this delicious meal on the table in just 35 minutes!
Rich, creamy carbonara sauce that clings perfectly to the pasta, making every bite a delight.
Versatile with ingredients – swap out shrimp for your favorite seafood or even add veggies for a twist!
Great for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in; it feels fancy but is super simple to make.
Leftovers are just as tasty – this dish reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it again the next day!
Packed with protein from the chicken and shrimp, making it a satisfying meal for any appetite.

Tips for Success

To make sure your chicken and shrimp carbonara turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few pro tips up my sleeve that I absolutely swear by:

Use Fresh Ingredients: Seriously, fresh ingredients make all the difference! Opt for freshly grated Parmesan cheese instead of the pre-packaged stuff for a richer flavor. And don’t skimp on the shrimp—fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp will give you the best results.
Timing is Key: When combining the egg and cheese mixture with the hot spaghetti, do it quickly! You want the heat of the pasta to gently cook the eggs without scrambling them. It’s all about that luscious creaminess!
Save Some Pasta Water: Remember that starchy pasta water you set aside? It’s liquid gold! Use it to adjust the sauce’s creaminess if it ends up a bit thick. Just add a splash until you reach that perfect consistency.
Season Throughout: Don’t wait until the end to season your dish! Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper at each stage. This helps build layers of flavor that’ll make your carbonara sing!
Mix It Up: Feel free to get creative! If you love a bit of spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a kick. Or add a handful of spinach or peas for a pop of color and extra nutrients. The sky’s the limit!

Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to making a chicken and shrimp carbonara that’ll impress everyone at the table. Happy cooking!

Variations

If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun variations you can try with this chicken and shrimp carbonara recipe! Here are some of my favorites:

Different Pasta: While spaghetti is a classic choice, you can easily swap it out for fettuccine, linguine, or even penne! Each shape holds the sauce differently, giving you a new experience with every bite.
Seafood Medley: If you love seafood, why not throw in some scallops or crab meat along with the shrimp? A mix of seafood adds a delightful depth of flavor and makes the dish feel even more luxurious!
Vegetable Boost: For a touch of freshness, consider adding in some sautéed asparagus, peas, or spinach. Not only do they add color, but they also make the dish a bit healthier and more nutritious!
Herbed Twist: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like basil or thyme. Just toss them in at the end for a burst of freshness that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
Spicy Carbonara: If you like a little heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or add diced jalapeños when cooking the pancetta. It’ll give your carbonara a spicy kick that’s oh-so-delicious!

Feel free to experiment with these variations or come up with your own! Cooking is all about creativity, and I can’t wait for you to discover your perfect version of chicken and shrimp carbonara!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Got leftovers? No problem! Storing your chicken and shrimp carbonara is super easy, and with the right method, you can enjoy that creamy goodness later without losing any flavor. First, let the dish cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent any moisture buildup that could make your pasta soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

When it’s time to reheat, I recommend using the stovetop for the best results. Just place the carbonara in a skillet over low to medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce as it warms up. Stir occasionally to ensure it heats evenly and doesn’t stick to the pan. This method keeps your pasta creamy and delicious!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also reheat it in the microwave. Just place a serving in a microwave-safe bowl, add a tiny bit of water, cover it with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed through. Make sure to keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking!

And there you have it—easy storage and reheating tips to make your chicken and shrimp carbonara just as tasty the next day! Enjoy every bite!

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While spaghetti is a classic, feel free to switch things up with fettuccine, penne, or even whole wheat pasta. Each will give you a unique texture and flavor!

What if I don’t have pancetta or bacon?
No worries! You can substitute it with turkey bacon or even skip it entirely for a lighter version. Just remember that it adds a nice smoky flavor, so you might want to add a pinch of smoked paprika for that extra kick.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While I recommend enjoying it fresh for the best texture, you can prepare the sauce and pasta separately. Just combine them right before serving to keep that creamy goodness intact!

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?
Definitely! You can replace the chicken and shrimp with sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or even chickpeas for a hearty, veggie-packed version. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with chicken and shrimp carbonara?
This dish is hearty enough on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, serve it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread to soak up that creamy sauce!

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just remember to reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it creamy.

Can I freeze chicken and shrimp carbonara?
I don’t recommend freezing this dish, as the creaminess can change texture when thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh, but if you do freeze it, make sure to reheat it slowly and add some liquid to help with the texture.

For more information on pasta cooking techniques, you can check out Food Network’s guide on cooking pasta. Additionally, for tips on making the perfect carbonara sauce, visit Serious Eats.

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.