Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Chicken Penne

Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Chicken Penne is the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. It combines succulent shrimp and tender chicken breast with perfectly cooked penne pasta, all enveloped in a luscious, garlicky cream sauce. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between indulgent and approachable, making it a weeknight favorite or a special occasion crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this dish is both straightforward and satisfying, delivering rich flavors with minimal fuss.

Why This Recipe Is Reliable

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Chicken Penne recipe stands out because it’s built on simple, high-quality ingredients and a straightforward cooking process. The combination of shrimp and chicken provides a delightful contrast in texture and flavor, while the creamy garlic sauce brings everything together in perfect harmony. The use of Italian seasoning and fresh parsley adds a fresh, aromatic element that elevates the dish without overpowering it. Plus, it’s designed to be flexible enough for you to customize or tweak according to your taste preferences or what you have in your pantry.

The Ingredient Lineup

• 8 ounces penne pasta – The ideal pasta shape for holding onto the creamy sauce.
• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined – Adds a sweet, briny flavor and tender texture.
• 1 pound chicken breast, diced – Provides heartiness and a mild, complementary taste.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing the proteins and garlic.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced – The star flavor component, giving the sauce its signature aroma.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates the rich, velvety base of the sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth and balances the creaminess.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that infuse the dish with classic Italian flavors.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce to add a nutty, savory finish.
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish – Adds color and a fresh herbal note.

Tools & Equipment Needed

• Large pot – For boiling the penne pasta to al dente perfection.
• Large skillet or sauté pan – To cook the shrimp, chicken, and sauce all in one pan.
• Colander – For draining the cooked pasta.
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – For stirring the sauce gently without scratching your pan.
• Knife and cutting board – To dice the chicken and mince garlic.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure the perfect balance of ingredients.

Make Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Chicken Penne: A Simple Method

Step 1: Cook the Penne Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 9-11 minutes. Once done, drain the pasta in a colander and set aside. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water to adjust the sauce later if needed.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken breast, season with salt and pepper, and cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the peeled and deveined shrimp, seasoning lightly with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the shrimp turn pink and are opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Build the Creamy Garlic Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Pour in the chicken broth and stir, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes to reduce slightly.

Step 5: Add Cream and Seasonings

Slowly stir in the heavy cream and Italian seasoning. Let the sauce simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until it thickens. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Add the drained penne pasta and toss everything together until the pasta is well coated in the creamy garlic sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.

Year-Round Variations

• Add sautéed spinach or kale for a boost of greens and nutrients.
• Swap the shrimp for scallops or substitute chicken with turkey breast for a different protein profile.
• Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or roasted red peppers for a tangy twist, inspired by dishes like Cajun Chicken Pasta In Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce.
• Substitute penne with other pasta shapes such as fusilli or rigatoni for more texture variety.
• For a lighter sauce, use half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream instead of full heavy cream.
• Try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to introduce a subtle heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Mix in seasonal vegetables like asparagus during spring, or mushrooms and peas in fall, similar to the freshness found in a Shrimp And Asparagus Pasta.

Little Things that Matter

• Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly and become rubbery if left too long. Watch them closely and remove them from the pan as soon as they turn pink.
• Use fresh garlic: Freshly minced garlic provides a bright, pungent flavor that dried garlic powder can’t match.
• Reserve pasta water: The starchy water helps thin out the sauce and helps it cling to the pasta better.
• Grate your own Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting.
• Season in layers: Salt and pepper your chicken, shrimp, sauce, and pasta as you go to build depth of flavor.
• Use quality olive oil: Good olive oil adds a subtle fruity richness to the sautéed proteins and garlic.
• Chop parsley finely: This ensures the herb’s flavor is dispersed evenly throughout the dish.

Shelf Life & Storage

This Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Chicken Penne is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored safely for up to 2 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or broth to rehydrate the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Avoid freezing as the cream sauce may separate and change texture once thawed.

Popular Questions

Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. You can thaw them overnight in the refrigerator or quickly under cold running water. Pat them dry before adding to the pan to avoid excess moisture in your sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a creamy plant-based alternative. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese to keep that savory, cheesy flavor without dairy.

What can I substitute for heavy cream if I don’t have any?

A mixture of milk and butter works well as a substitute—combine 3/4 cup milk with 1/4 cup melted butter to replace 1 cup of heavy cream. Half-and-half can also be used if you want a lighter sauce.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and shrimp in advance by dicing and peeling respectively, but it’s best to cook and combine everything just before serving to maintain the best texture and flavor. The sauce can be made ahead and gently reheated with pasta and proteins added just before serving.

More Recipes You’ll Love

• Shrimp And Asparagus Pasta – A fresh and vibrant seafood pasta perfect for spring and summer nights.
• Cajun Chicken Pasta In Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce – A bold and creamy pasta with a spicy kick and rich tomato flavor.

In Closing

Creamy Garlic Shrimp and Chicken Penne is a timeless recipe that delivers on every level — creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor. Its simplicity makes it approachable, yet its taste is anything but ordinary. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish is sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. The balance of garlic, herbs, and cheese with the tender chicken and shrimp creates a memorable meal that feels both luxurious and homey. Give it a try and discover just how easy it is to bring restaurant-quality pasta right to your kitchen table.

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