What is the best sauce for shrimp and chicken pasta?

The best sauce for shrimp chicken pasta depends on your flavor preferences. Creamy Alfredo sauce is rich and classic, while Cajun cream sauce adds a spicy, smoky kick. For something lighter, garlic butter or tomato basil sauces also pair beautifully with both shrimp and chicken.

Can you use pre-cooked shrimp in pasta?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked shrimp in shrimp chicken pasta, but be careful not to overheat them. Add them at the very end, just before serving, to keep them tender and juicy. Pre-cooked shrimp are a great time-saver for quick weeknight meals.

How do you keep shrimp from getting rubbery in pasta?

To avoid rubbery shrimp in your shrimp chicken pasta, cook them for just 2–3 minutes per side over medium heat. Shrimp are done when they turn pink and form a “C” shape. Overcooked shrimp curl tightly into an “O” and become tough.

Is shrimp chicken pasta healthy?

Shrimp chicken pasta can be a healthy option when made with lean chicken, fresh shrimp, and whole grain or gluten-free pasta. Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or use olive oil and broth for lighter sauces. Add veggies like spinach, tomatoes, or mushrooms for extra nutrients.

What pasta goes well with shrimp and chicken?

Fettuccine, linguine, penne, and rotini all work well in shrimp chicken pasta. These shapes hold sauces nicely and offer good texture. Choose based on the sauce you’re using—creamier sauces pair best with wider noodles, while lighter sauces work with thinner pasta.

Can I make this pasta ahead of time?

Yes! You can make shrimp chicken pasta in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. For best results, store the sauce separately and combine just before reheating. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or cream to keep it moist.

Shrimp Chicken Pasta: The Best Creamy One-Pan Recipe Ever (2025)

Name: Shrimp Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine); 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cubed; 2 tbsp olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half); 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional); Salt & pepper to taste; Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Description

A creamy and flavorful one-pan shrimp chicken pasta made with tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and a rich Parmesan garlic sauce. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect quick dinner idea that doesn’t skimp on taste.

Ingredients

Scale

8 oz pasta (fettuccine, penne, or linguine)
1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast (or thighs), cubed
2 tbsp olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (optional)
Salt & pepper to taste
Fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp olive oil. Season chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Cook 5–6 minutes or until golden and fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp olive oil and shrimp. Cook 2–3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Reduce heat to medium. Add garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in cream, stir, and bring to a simmer. Add Parmesan and mix until sauce thickens.
Return chicken, shrimp, and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated. Add reserved pasta water as needed to loosen the sauce.
Season to taste, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.

Notes

Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt or half-and-half for a lighter version.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or cherry tomatoes for extra veggies.
This recipe is also great baked with shredded mozzarella on top.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: One-Pot / Skillet
Cuisine: American, Fusion

Keywords: shrimp chicken pasta, creamy shrimp chicken pasta, one-pan pasta, easy weeknight pasta, shrimp pasta with chicken