Chicken and Shrimp Pasta: The Creamiest Combo for Every Pasta Lover

When it comes to comfort food that doesn’t compromise on flavor, chicken and shrimp pasta is the ultimate go-to. This rich, creamy, and perfectly seasoned dish brings together the hearty satisfaction of chicken and the delicate sweetness of shrimp, all wrapped in perfectly cooked pasta. Whether you’re cooking for a date night, family dinner, or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers big flavor with surprisingly little fuss.

Not only is it packed with protein, but it’s also versatile enough to go spicy, garlicky, cheesy—or all three. In this blog, we’ll cover everything from choosing the best ingredients and pasta shapes to prepping like a pro and even making your own “marry me” sauce. By the end, you’ll know how to whip up the most flavorful chicken and shrimp pasta you’ve ever had.

Looking for inspiration? Try this comforting beef pasta alternative: Easy Shaved Beef Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Why Chicken and Shrimp Pasta is the Ultimate Fusion Dish

The Origins of Combining Poultry and Seafood in Pasta

Though surf and turf is a well-known concept in fine dining, the idea of blending chicken and shrimp pasta is more of a modern comfort food twist. Traditionally, Italian cuisine keeps land and sea proteins separate, but American home cooks have long enjoyed merging the two—especially in creamy pasta dishes.

Over time, this combo grew popular in places like New Orleans, where Cajun and Creole influences brought bold spices into creamy seafood and chicken dishes. These multicultural roots laid the foundation for what we now love as chicken and shrimp pasta.

Popularity of Chicken and Shrimp Dishes in Modern Cuisine

Why is this dish trending on Pinterest boards and dinner tables across America? It’s simple—people love variety. Chicken brings heartiness, shrimp brings a tender bite, and pasta binds it all together with indulgent sauces like Alfredo or spicy cream blends.

You’ll find chicken and shrimp pasta on restaurant menus from coast to coast, and for good reason. It satisfies both seafood lovers and those who prefer poultry, creating a rich, well-balanced meal that feels fancy but takes less than 45 minutes to cook.

Check out another fusion dish here: Explore a Variety of Pineapple Cake Mix Recipes to Add Fun and Flavor to Your Desserts

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Chicken and Shrimp Pasta

Best Types of Chicken Cuts and How to Prep Them

For the most tender and flavorful chicken and shrimp pasta, the chicken should be juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked just right. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the most popular cut because they cook quickly and pair well with creamy sauces. However, chicken thighs bring a richer flavor and stay juicy longer, especially when sautéed or baked before adding to the pasta.

Before you start cooking, be sure to:

• Trim off excess fat.
• Pat the chicken dry to help it sear better.
• Cut it into even cubes or strips for quicker cooking and better texture in each bite.

Pro tip: Season your chicken with salt, pepper, paprika, and garlic powder before cooking. This base seasoning helps it hold its own next to the shrimp.

How to Choose Fresh, Flavorful Shrimp

Shrimp brings a sweet, briny flavor that complements the chicken beautifully in chicken and shrimp pasta. Always go for raw shrimp—fresh or frozen—because pre-cooked shrimp often turns rubbery when reheated. Medium to large shrimp work best for this recipe, giving each bite a satisfying texture.

Look for these indicators of freshness:

• A mild ocean smell (never fishy).
• Firm, translucent flesh.
• No signs of black spots or mushiness.

If you’re using frozen shrimp, thaw them in a bowl of cold water for 15-20 minutes. Remove the shells and devein them for a cleaner bite and more elegant look. A quick sear with olive oil, garlic, and a dash of lemon is usually all shrimp needs to shine in your chicken and shrimp pasta dish.

Don’t miss our dynamic pasta dinner inspiration inside this collection: Explore More Dinner Recipes – Recipes by Amelia (dynamically selected link)

Pasta Pairings: What Kind of Pasta Works Best with Chicken and Shrimp?

Types of Pasta That Absorb Sauces Well

Pasta is more than just a base—it’s the canvas that holds together the rich flavors of your chicken and shrimp pasta. The best pasta shapes are ones that can cling to thick, creamy sauces and carry chunks of meat and shrimp without falling apart. Here are top picks:

Long noodles like fettuccine or linguine create a beautiful presentation, while penne and rotini are better for one-pot meals and easier bites.

Don’t use delicate pasta like angel hair for this dish—it tends to get soggy or overwhelmed by the sauce and proteins.

Gluten-Free and Low-Carb Pasta Alternatives

If you’re eating gluten-free or watching your carbs, there are excellent alternatives that don’t sacrifice texture or flavor in your chicken and shrimp pasta. Here are a few favorites:

• Chickpea Pasta: High in protein and fiber, with a slightly nutty flavor that plays well with creamy sauces.
• Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles): A great low-carb option for lighter meals. Just sauté lightly so they don’t get soggy.
• Brown Rice Pasta: Chewy and satisfying, perfect for gluten-free versions.
• Palmini Noodles: Made from hearts of palm, these are keto-friendly and absorb flavors well when cooked right.

Remember, alternative pastas may cook differently, so always check the packaging for specific instructions.

Discover great ideas like this low-carb creamy meal swap in our Seafood category (orphan link placeholder)

How to Cook Chicken and Shrimp Together Without Overcooking

Timing and Temperature Tips

Cooking shrimp and chicken together may sound tricky, but it’s totally doable with the right approach. The key is understanding that shrimp cooks much faster than chicken. If you toss both into the pan at the same time, your shrimp will likely turn rubbery before the chicken is done.

To avoid that, follow this method:

1. Start with the chicken – Sauté it in a large skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.
2. Remove and set aside – This lets it rest while you cook the shrimp.
3. Use the same pan – This helps preserve the flavorful fond (those tasty browned bits).
4. Sauté shrimp for just 2–3 minutes per side – You’ll know they’re ready when they curl into a “C” shape and turn pink.

This technique ensures every bite in your chicken and shrimp pasta is juicy, tender, and full of flavor.

Pro tip: If you’re making a one-pot pasta dish, add the shrimp toward the very end—just before you finish simmering the sauce.

Pan-Searing vs. Oven Roasting vs. One-Pot Methods

Each cooking method offers its own perks for chicken and shrimp pasta, depending on your time and flavor preferences.

• Pan-searing is fast and builds a lot of flavor quickly. It’s ideal for weeknight cooking and helps both proteins stay juicy.
• Oven roasting works if you want hands-off cooking. Bake the chicken and shrimp separately at 400°F—chicken for about 20–25 minutes, shrimp for only 8–10.
• One-pot cooking is a favorite for meal prep. Sear the chicken, add broth or cream, pasta, and seasonings. Add shrimp in the last few minutes. Fewer dishes, more flavor.

Learn more about smart batch cooking techniques in this easy dinner roundup (orphan link placeholder)

The Creamy Sauce That Makes It “Marry Me” Worthy

What Is “Marry Me” Sauce and Why It’s Perfect for This Dish

“Marry Me” sauce isn’t just a trendy name — it’s a creamy, dreamy mix of flavors that’s said to be so good, it could spark a marriage proposal. While traditionally paired with chicken alone, it takes chicken and shrimp pasta to a whole new level of indulgence.

At its core, “Marry Me” sauce includes:

• Heavy cream
• Garlic
• Chicken broth or wine
• Parmesan cheese
• Sun-dried tomatoes
• Crushed red pepper flakes
• Italian seasoning or fresh basil

The balance of richness (from the cream and cheese), brightness (from tomatoes), and heat (from pepper flakes) makes it the perfect match for the tenderness of shrimp and the heartiness of chicken. It’s savory, comforting, and a little bit fancy — the perfect vibe for pasta night.

Recipe for the Perfect Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

Want to make this luscious sauce from scratch for your chicken and shrimp pasta? Here’s a basic recipe that hits all the right notes:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan
• ¼ cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• Optional: splash of dry white wine for depth

Instructions:

1. In the same skillet used to cook your chicken and shrimp, melt butter and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
2. Pour in broth (or wine) and bring to a simmer.
3. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, tomatoes, and seasonings. Simmer until thickened (5–7 minutes).
4. Return your cooked chicken and shrimp to the sauce and coat well.
5. Toss in your pasta and combine until silky and creamy.

This sauce clings beautifully to fettuccine, penne, or linguine and ties the entire chicken and shrimp pasta together with layers of flavor in every bite.

Don’t miss our flavor-packed air fryer recipes if you’re looking for fast, creamy dishes too (dynamically selected link: Air Fryer Recipe category suggestion)

Flavor Boosters: Herbs, Spices, and Add-Ins You Should Try

Top Herbs and Spices to Enhance the Dish

A creamy chicken and shrimp pasta already packs tons of flavor, but adding the right herbs and spices can take it from delicious to unforgettable. These aren’t just garnishes—they add complexity, aroma, and a punch of character to every bite.

Here are the flavor enhancers that work best with this dish:

• Garlic powder: Enhances the natural umami of chicken and shrimp.
• Smoked paprika: Adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: Offers a gentle heat that cuts through the creaminess.
• Thyme: Earthy and citrusy, great with both proteins.
• Parsley or basil (fresh): Adds a fresh, bright finish right before serving.
• Lemon zest or juice: Cuts the richness with a zing that lights up the whole plate.

These ingredients don’t just add taste—they also bring balance. Creamy sauces can feel heavy without a bit of brightness or heat to liven things up.

Sprinkle herbs at different stages:

• Add dried herbs while the sauce simmers.
• Finish with fresh herbs just before serving.

Optional Add-ins Like Spinach, Sun-Dried Tomatoes, or Mushrooms

Want to bulk up your chicken and shrimp pasta or sneak in extra nutrition? Toss in some flavorful mix-ins. These ingredients not only add texture but also soak up the sauce beautifully.

Here are some top-tier add-ins:

Tip: Cook your veggies in the same pan after searing the chicken and shrimp to infuse them with savory flavor.

Check out this unique spin on savory protein pastas: Easy Shaved Beef Recipes for Quick Weeknight Dinners

Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken and Shrimp Pasta

Common Errors When Cooking Shrimp

Shrimp can be the star of your chicken and shrimp pasta—but only if it’s cooked the right way. One of the biggest mistakes? Overcooking. It happens fast, and the result is a rubbery, dry bite that clashes with your silky sauce.

Here’s how to avoid it:

• Watch for the “C”: Perfectly cooked shrimp curls into a loose “C” shape. A tight “O” means it’s overdone.
• Don’t boil shrimp in the sauce: Always cook shrimp separately, then add it to the sauce at the end.
• Use thawed shrimp, not frozen: Throwing frozen shrimp straight into the pan can lead to uneven cooking and watery results.

Another misstep is not seasoning your shrimp before cooking. Shrimp has a delicate flavor—it needs a little salt, pepper, and garlic powder to hold its own in a rich dish like chicken and shrimp pasta.

Why Seasoning Matters More Than Ever

If your pasta tastes bland, it probably has nothing to do with your proteins or sauce—it’s your seasoning. The creamy elements in chicken and shrimp pasta tend to mellow out flavors, so you’ll need to be a little bold with your spice game.

Common seasoning mistakes:

• Under-salting the pasta water: Pasta water should taste like the ocean—it’s your first chance to season the whole dish.
• Skipping layered seasoning: Add salt, pepper, and herbs at every stage: chicken, shrimp, and sauce.
• Relying only on cream and cheese: These bring richness but not complexity. That’s where herbs, garlic, and a dash of lemon come in.

Proper seasoning ensures that every forkful of your chicken and shrimp pasta delivers a balance of creaminess, spice, and fresh flavor.

Looking for more tips on avoiding kitchen fails? Explore More Dinner Recipes – Recipes by Amelia

Serving Suggestions and Meal Pairings

Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Shrimp Pasta

Your chicken and shrimp pasta already brings bold flavor and creamy texture, so your sides should balance rather than compete. Think light, crisp, and refreshing to offset the richness of the sauce and proteins.

Top side dishes to serve:

Don’t forget to plate it right: pasta goes down first, with shrimp and chicken layered on top, followed by a drizzle of sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan and herbs. Garnish with parsley or basil for that restaurant-level finish.

Wine and Beverage Pairing Ideas

Pairing wine with chicken and shrimp pasta can take your meal from casual dinner to elegant experience. Because the dish features both poultry and seafood in a creamy sauce, you’ll want a wine that’s crisp but not too sharp.

Best wine pairings:

• Chardonnay (unoaked) – Rich enough to match the cream sauce, light enough for shrimp.
• Pinot Grigio – Zesty and citrus-forward, great with garlic and herbs.
• Rosé – Refreshing, slightly fruity, and flexible with both chicken and shrimp.
• Sparkling wine – Adds a celebratory feel and cleanses the palate.

If you’re skipping alcohol, try:

• Lemon-infused water
• Cucumber mint mocktails
• Sparkling apple juice

These beverages add balance without overpowering your chicken and shrimp pasta flavor profile.

Looking for inspiration? Try our trending creamy seafood dishes and pairing tips in the Seafood Recipes section (orphan link placeholder)

Storing, Reheating, and Making It Ahead

How to Store for Maximum Freshness

Made a big batch of chicken and shrimp pasta? No problem. This dish stores well when you follow a few simple rules to keep the sauce creamy and the proteins tender.

Here’s how to store it like a pro:

• Use airtight containers: Store portions in individual meal prep containers for easy grab-and-go lunches.
• Let it cool completely: Don’t seal it up while it’s hot—trapped steam can create soggy pasta and watery sauce.
• Label it: Include the date so you remember when it was made.

Refrigerator: Keeps fresh for up to 3–4 days.
Freezer: You can freeze it, but note that cream-based sauces may separate slightly upon reheating.

To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Squeeze out as much air as possible and store for up to 2 months.

Reheating Tips to Preserve Flavor and Texture

Reheating chicken and shrimp pasta takes a gentle touch. You want to warm it through without drying out the proteins or breaking the sauce.

Here are three solid reheating methods:

1. Stovetop (Best option)
Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Heat over medium-low, stirring often, until hot.

2. Microwave
Place pasta in a bowl, add 1–2 tbsp of milk or broth, and cover loosely. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

3. Oven
Preheat to 325°F. Place pasta in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 15–20 minutes. This method works best for large portions.

Avoid overcooking during reheating—especially the shrimp—as it can easily become rubbery. If freezing in advance, consider making the sauce separately and combining it with freshly cooked shrimp for best texture.

Discover great make-ahead meal inspiration like this in our Dinner Recipes section (orphan link placeholder)

Chicken and Shrimp Pasta: Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort dish that’s rich, satisfying, and dinner-party worthy, look no further than chicken and shrimp pasta. This recipe is a creamy, crave-worthy fusion of land and sea—layering juicy chicken, tender shrimp, and al dente pasta with a sauce so good it might just get you a proposal.

Whether you’re using classic “Marry Me” sauce or mixing in your own flavor twists, this dish adapts to every occasion—from quick weeknight dinners to romantic weekend meals. Just remember: quality ingredients, good timing, and a dash of creativity are all you need to master this dish.

Check out more creamy, hearty dinners in our Easy Dinner Recipe archive: Explore More Dinner Recipes – Recipes by Amelia

Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x

Print Recipe

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Description

This creamy chicken and shrimp pasta is the ultimate comfort food fusion—juicy seared chicken, tender shrimp, and rich garlic parmesan sauce tossed with your favorite pasta. Ready in under 45 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight dinner or date-night favorite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
• 12 large raw shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ cup chicken broth or dry white wine
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped parsley or basil for garnish

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tbsp olive oil and sear seasoned chicken pieces until golden brown and cooked through (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside.
3. Add the remaining oil to the skillet and sauté shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side until pink and curled. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, melt butter and sauté minced garlic for 1 minute.
5. Pour in chicken broth (or wine) and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
6. Add heavy cream, Parmesan, sun-dried tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir and simmer until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
7. Return chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Add cooked pasta and toss until fully coated in sauce.
8. Garnish with parsley or basil and serve hot.

Notes

• For extra flavor, add spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or lemon zest to the sauce.
• Use gluten-free pasta or zucchini noodles for dietary adjustments.
• Do not overcook shrimp—remove them immediately after they turn pink.
• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American-Italian

Keywords: chicken and shrimp pasta, marry me pasta, creamy shrimp pasta, garlic parmesan pasta, chicken shrimp recipe