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Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara You Can Make Tonight

This Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara is a delicious and quick dish that combines tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a rich, creamy sauce for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Sauce
  • 6 slices Bacon Adds a smoky flavor and crunch; swap with turkey bacon for a lighter alternative.
  • 4 large Egg Yolks Enrich the sauce for unforgettable creaminess; for an egg-free option, use silken tofu.
  • 1 cup Parmesan Cheese Imparts rich umami flavor and thickens the sauce; for a sharper taste, consider Pecorino Romano.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream Creates a luxurious texture; substitute with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream for a lighter option.
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breast Provides hearty protein; turkey or plant-based chicken work as good substitutes.
  • 1 pound Shrimp Adds sweetness and tenderness; can be exchanged with scallops or omitted for a vegetarian dish.
For the Pasta and Veggies
  • 8 ounces Spaghetti Serves as the meal's base; feel free to use gluten-free pasta as needed.
  • 1 medium Onion Adds depth and sweetness; shallots make a great alternative or you can omit for milder flavors.
  • 2 cloves Garlic Contributes aromatic goodness; use garlic powder in a pinch if fresh isn’t available.
  • 1 medium Red Bell Pepper Offers color and sweetness; can be replaced with green bell pepper or even spinach.
For Flavoring
  • 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning Enhances the dish with a blend of herbs; individual herbs like basil and oregano can be used as substitutes.
  • to taste Salt Essential for elevating flavors; adjust to your taste preference.
  • to taste Black Pepper Essential for elevating flavors; adjust to your taste preference.

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large pot
  • Mixing Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the Proteins: Coat the shrimp with Italian seasoning and set aside. Similarly coat the chicken breast.
  2. Cook the Bacon: Heat a skillet, add diced bacon, and cook until crispy, then remove and leave the fat in the pan.
  3. Cook the Pasta: Boil salted water, add spaghetti, and cook until al dente, reserving 1 cup of the pasta water.
  4. Sauté the Chicken: In the skillet with bacon fat, cook the chicken until golden and fully cooked; set aside.
  5. Cook the Shrimp: Sauté the seasoned shrimp in the skillet until pink and opaque; set aside with the chicken.
  6. Sauté the Vegetables: In the skillet, sauté onion and garlic, then add red bell pepper until tender.
  7. Prepare the Sauce: Whisk egg yolks, cream, Parmesan, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
  8. Combine the Pasta and Sauce: Add drained pasta to the skillet, remove from heat, and pour the sauce while stirring quickly.
  9. Add the Proteins: Fold in chicken, shrimp, and bacon until well combined.
  10. Serve and Garnish: Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan before serving hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 40gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 200mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

For best results, follow the tips provided for creamy sauce and reheating leftovers without compromising texture.

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