shrimp and chicken carbonara olive garden recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
shrimp and chicken carbonara olive garden recipe
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The Best shrimp and chicken carbonara olive garden recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite shrimp and chicken carbonara recipe, inspired by the classic Italian dish. This recipe is a game-changer for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event.

I’ve made it countless times for my family and friends, and it never fails to impress. The combination of succulent shrimp, juicy chicken, and rich, creamy sauce is absolutely divine.

And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques.

As a busy mom of three, I appreciate recipes that can be whipped up in no time and still deliver on flavor. This one is definitely a winner.

Shrimp and Chicken Carbonara Olive Garden Style

Shrimp and Chicken Carbonara Olive Garden Style

4.5 from 857 votes

A creamy carbonara pasta loaded with succulent shrimp and tender chicken, inspired by Olive Garden’s beloved dish. This rich and savory sauce coats every strand of pasta for a satisfying meal.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time25 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 550 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pasta and Protein

12 oz fettuccine pasta
8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
8 oz boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp garlic powder

For the Carbonara Sauce

4 large egg yolks
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup reserved pasta water
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley

👨‍🍳Directions

1Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2Add the fettuccine and cook until al dente, about 10 to 12 minutes, then reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
3While the pasta cooks, season the shrimp and chicken strips with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
5Add the chicken strips to the skillet and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, turning once, until golden brown and cooked through with an internal temperature of 165°F.
6Transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
7In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the shrimp.
8Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove and set aside with the chicken.
9Reduce the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the skillet, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
10In a small bowl, whisk together the egg yolks and heavy cream until smooth.
11Remove the skillet from heat and slowly pour in the egg and cream mixture while whisking constantly to prevent curdling.
12Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and reserved pasta water, mixing until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
13Add the drained fettuccine, cooked chicken, and shrimp back to the skillet.
14Toss everything together over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes until the sauce coats the pasta evenly and is heated through.
15Serve immediately, garnished with fresh chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Large skillet
Whisk
Colander
Measuring cups and spoons
Chef’s knife
Cutting board

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 550 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28g💛Saturated Fat: 14g❤️Cholesterol: 280mg🧂Sodium: 980mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 2g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 32g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce the Parmesan to 1/2 cup. Ensure the skillet is off the heat when adding the egg mixture to avoid scrambling the eggs.

Watch Video Of How Shrimp and Chicken Carbonara Olive Garden Style Works

This shrimp and chicken carbonara recipe has become a staple in our household, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or special occasions like holidays and gatherings.

The combination of flavors and textures is truly addictive, and I love how easy it is to customize with your favorite ingredients.

Plus, it’s surprisingly healthy considering how rich it tastes – the protein from the shrimp and chicken makes it feel like a guilt-free indulgence.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Shrimp and Chicken Carbonara Olive Garden Style

Q: What is the origin of carbonara?

Carbonara is a traditional Italian pasta dish that originated in Rome. It typically consists of bacon or pancetta, eggs, parmesan cheese, and black pepper. However, the version I’m sharing with you today incorporates shrimp and chicken for added protein and flavor.

Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp as a substitute for fresh. Just make sure to thaw them properly before using in the recipe. Frozen shrimp are often cheaper than fresh and can be just as flavorful when cooked properly.

Q: What type of pasta should I use for this recipe?

I recommend using spaghetti or fettuccine for this recipe. These long, flat noodles allow the sauce to coat them evenly and provide a nice contrast in texture to the chunky shrimp and chicken.

Q: Can I make this recipe without heavy cream?

While heavy cream does add richness to the dish, you can omit it if you’re watching your calorie intake or prefer a lighter sauce. Simply substitute with an equal amount of low-fat milk or Greek yogurt for a similar consistency.

Q: How do I store leftover carbonara?

You can store leftover carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over low heat until warmed through.

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