Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara – Creamy, Flavorful & Easy Recipe

If you’re looking for a creamy, indulgent, and flavor-packed pasta dish, Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara is the perfect choice. This delicious recipe takes the traditional Italian carbonara and elevates it with tender chicken, succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, and a rich, velvety sauce made from eggs, Parmesan cheese, and cream. The result? A decadent and satisfying dish that feels like a restaurant-quality meal right from your own kitchen.

What makes Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara so special is its balance of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken and shrimp add protein and depth, while the creamy sauce coats the pasta perfectly, delivering a luxurious bite in every forkful. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or just treating yourself, this dish is sure to impress!

In this article, we’ll guide you through the best way to make Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara, including key ingredients, step-by-step cooking tips, and variations to customize it to your liking. Get ready to enjoy a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious pasta dish that will become a favorite at your dinner table!

What is Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara?

Chicken and shrimp carbonara is a delicious twist on the classic Italian carbonara, a dish traditionally made with eggs, cheese (Parmesan or Pecorino Romano), pancetta, and pasta. While the original Roman version sticks to a minimalist approach, this variation incorporates chicken and shrimp, making it even more filling and flavorful.

The Origins of Carbonara

Carbonara originated in Rome, Italy, during the mid-20th century. Though its exact origins are debated, many believe it was created by Italian coal workers who needed a hearty, simple meal. The name “carbonara” is derived from the Italian word “carbonaro,” meaning “charcoal burner,” referencing the dish’s black pepper garnish that resembles coal dust.

Unlike Alfredo sauce, which is a butter-and-cream-based sauce, authentic carbonara sauce is made from just eggs and cheese. The heat from the freshly cooked pasta emulsifies the egg mixture, creating a creamy texture without the need for heavy cream.

How Chicken and Shrimp Became a Part of Carbonara

As Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara grew in popularity worldwide, chefs and home cooks started experimenting with different proteins and flavors. Chicken and shrimp were natural additions, offering a protein-rich and satisfying twist to the traditional recipe.

• Chicken adds a hearty, comforting taste that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Shrimp provides a delicate, slightly sweet seafood flavor, balancing the richness of the dish.
• Bacon or pancetta remains a key ingredient, adding depth and smokiness.

Classic Carbonara vs. Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

This modern adaptation is popular in American and Italian-American cuisine, often served in restaurants with garlic bread or a side salad.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

• Restaurant-Quality at Home – You can make this dish just as good (if not better) than what you’d find at a high-end restaurant.
• Quick and Easy – It comes together in under 45 minutes!
• Perfectly Balanced Flavors – The smokiness of bacon, the richness of the sauce, and the lightness of shrimp create an irresistible combination.
• Customizable – You can tweak ingredients to match your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients for Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

To make Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara, you’ll need a combination of classic carbonara ingredients and extra proteins for added depth. Below is a complete list of what you’ll need, including optional substitutions to fit your preferences.

Main Ingredients

Why These Ingredients Work Well Together

• The combination of Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara ensures the dish is both filling and flavorful.
• Eggs and cheese create a creamy sauce without needing extra dairy (though some recipes add cream for a richer texture).
• Bacon or pancetta provides a smoky contrast to the richness of the dish.
• Garlic and red pepper flakes give a subtle heat and depth, enhancing the overall flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions for Dietary Needs

• For a Healthier Version: Use whole wheat pasta, swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt, and use turkey bacon.
• For a Dairy-Free Option: Replace Parmesan cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
• For a Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free pasta made from rice, chickpeas, or quinoa.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the step-by-step process of making Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara. This recipe comes together in about 40–45 minutes, making it a great option for a delicious homemade dinner.

Preparing the Ingredients

Before you start cooking, it’s essential to have all your ingredients prepped and ready.

1. Cook the Pasta
   • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   • Cook the pasta 1 minute less than package instructions (since it will finish cooking in the sauce).
   • Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining; this will help create the creamy sauce.
2. Prepare the Proteins
   • Chicken: Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes.
   • Shrimp: Peel and devein the shrimp if not pre-cleaned. Pat them dry and season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Mix the Carbonara Sauce
   • In a mixing bowl, whisk together:
     • 2 large eggs
     • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
     • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
   • Set aside. This will be added later to create the sauce.

Cooking the Chicken and Shrimp

1. Sauté the Bacon/Pancetta
   • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the chopped bacon or pancetta and cook until crispy (about 4–5 minutes).
   • Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
2. Cook the Chicken
   • In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed).
   • Sear the chicken pieces over medium-high heat until golden brown and fully cooked (about 6–7 minutes).
   • Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp
   • Add the shrimp to the same pan.
   • Cook for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
   • Remove and set aside.

Making the Carbonara Sauce

1. Lower the Heat
   • Reduce the heat to low. High heat can scramble the eggs in the sauce.
2. Add Garlic and Pasta Water
   • Add minced garlic to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
   • Pour in ½ cup reserved pasta water and stir.
3. Combine the Pasta with the Sauce
   • Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat it in the bacon fat and garlic mixture.
4. Incorporate the Egg Mixture
   • Remove the pan from heat (this prevents the eggs from scrambling).
   • Slowly pour the egg and cheese mixture over the pasta, tossing constantly to create a creamy consistency.
   • If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more reserved pasta water to loosen it.

Bringing Everything Together

1. Reintroduce the Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara
   • Add the cooked chicken and shrimp back to the pan.
   • Toss gently until everything is well coated in the sauce.
2. Add Crispy Bacon and Final Seasoning
   • Stir in the crispy bacon/pancetta for added crunch and smokiness.
   • Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes as needed.
3. Garnish and Serve
   • Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley for a fresh touch.
   • Serve immediately with extra grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Prevent Scrambled Eggs: Always remove the pan from heat before adding the egg mixture. The residual heat will cook the sauce perfectly.

Use Freshly Grated Cheese: Pre-packaged Parmesan doesn’t melt well. For best results, grate it fresh from a block.

Balance the Pasta Water: Add pasta water gradually to control the sauce’s consistency.

Serve Immediately: Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara tastes best freshly made, as reheating can change the texture.

Tips for the Perfect Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Cooking a flawless Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara requires attention to detail, especially when handling the sauce. Carbonara is known for its rich, creamy texture without using heavy cream (although some modern variations include it). Below are expert tips to ensure your dish turns out smooth, flavorful, and restaurant-quality every time.

1. Avoid Scrambling the Eggs

One of the most common mistakes in making carbonara is scrambled eggs instead of a silky, creamy sauce. To prevent this:

Remove the pan from heat before adding the egg mixture. The residual heat will be enough to thicken the sauce.

Toss constantly as you pour the eggs, ensuring even distribution and preventing clumping.

Use reserved pasta water to control the sauce’s consistency and avoid overheating.

2. Get the Right Sauce Consistency

The key to a luxurious carbonara sauce is the balance between the egg mixture and pasta water. If your sauce is too thick or dry:

Add a splash of warm reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Stir quickly to emulsify the sauce without breaking it.

Avoid adding too much cheese at once, which can make the sauce overly thick.

3. Choosing the Best Cheese for Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Traditional Roman Carbonara uses Pecorino Romano, but many recipes include Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) for a milder taste.

🧀 Best choices for carbonara cheese:

• Pecorino Romano – Strong, tangy, and salty
• Parmigiano-Reggiano – Nutty and slightly sweet
• Grana Padano – A milder alternative to Parmesan

✅ Tip: Always grate your cheese fresh instead of using pre-shredded cheese, which contains anti-caking agents that affect texture.

4. Choosing the Right Pasta

While spaghetti is the classic pasta choice for carbonara, other pasta types can also work well.

🍝 Best pasta choices:

• Spaghetti – Traditional and evenly coats with sauce
• Fettuccine – Slightly wider and ideal for creamy sauces
• Linguine – A great middle-ground choice
• Penne or Rigatoni – Holds sauce well, making it perfect for heartier versions like chicken and shrimp carbonara

✅ Tip: Cook pasta 1 minute less than package instructions, as it will continue to cook in the sauce.

5. How to Cook Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Perfectly

Since shrimp cooks much faster than chicken, follow these tips to avoid overcooking:

✅ For Shrimp:

• Cook over medium-high heat for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
• Avoid overcooking, as shrimp can turn rubbery.

✅ For Chicken:

• Use medium-high heat and cook chicken 5–7 minutes until golden brown and fully cooked.
• Let the chicken rest for a minute before adding it to the sauce, so it stays juicy.

6. Can You Make Carbonara Without Cream?

Yes! Authentic Italian carbonara doesn’t contain cream—its creamy texture comes from eggs, cheese, and pasta water. However, if you prefer a richer, more indulgent sauce:

✅ Add ¼–½ cup of heavy cream for extra smoothness.
✅ If avoiding cream, use extra egg yolks for a silkier sauce.

7. The Secret to Perfect Bacon or Pancetta

For crispy, flavorful bacon or pancetta:

Start with a cold pan—this helps the fat render evenly.
Cook over medium heat instead of high heat to avoid burning.
Use a slotted spoon to remove bacon and leave behind flavorful fat for cooking the garlic and pasta.

8. Seasoning and Final Touches

Since Parmesan and pancetta are naturally salty, be cautious with additional salt.

Taste before adding extra salt to prevent over-seasoning.
Freshly ground black pepper enhances the dish and is a must for true carbonara flavor.
Finish with fresh parsley for a fresh contrast to the richness of the dish.

9. Serving and Pairing Suggestions

🥖 Best Side Dishes:

• Garlic bread – Perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce
• Caesar salad – A crisp, tangy contrast to the creamy pasta
• Roasted vegetables – Asparagus or zucchini complement the dish well

🍷 Best Wine Pairings:

• White wine: A Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio pairs well with the creamy sauce.
• Red wine: A light-bodied Pinot Noir can complement the smokiness of the bacon.

10. Storing and Reheating Carbonara

Since carbonara contains eggs, it’s best eaten fresh, but if you have leftovers:

✅ Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
✅ Reheat Properly: Avoid microwaving—heat gently on the stove with a splash of pasta water or cream.

❌ Do not freeze carbonara—the sauce will separate and become grainy when thawed.

Final Thought on Carbonara Mastery

Mastering Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara is all about temperature control, sauce consistency, and high-quality ingredients. With these tips, you’ll be able to create a perfect, creamy, and flavorful carbonara every single time!

Variations of Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

While the classic Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara is already a delicious and indulgent dish, you can customize it in many ways to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you want a healthier version, a vegetarian twist, or an extra indulgent recipe, these variations will give you plenty of inspiration.

1. Healthier Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

If you love carbonara but want to make it lighter, you can tweak a few ingredients without losing the dish’s rich and creamy texture.

Swap heavy cream for Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess while cutting down on fat.
Use turkey bacon instead of pancetta – Lower in fat but still has a smoky flavor.
Choose whole wheat or chickpea pasta – Provides extra fiber and nutrients.
Increase the protein-to-pasta ratio – More chicken and shrimp and less pasta to make it leaner.
Add more vegetables – Broccoli, spinach, or zucchini will add nutrients and texture.

2. Ultimate Cheesy Carbonara

For cheese lovers, making an extra cheesy carbonara can take the dish to the next level.

🧀 Best cheeses to mix for a cheesier carbonara:

• Pecorino Romano (salty and tangy)
• Parmesan (Parmigiano-Reggiano) (nutty and slightly sweet)
• Gruyère (melts well and adds depth)
• Fontina (for extra creaminess)

✅ Tip: To avoid a clumpy sauce, mix cheese with eggs before adding it to the pasta, and use a little more reserved pasta water to help everything blend smoothly.

3. Spicy Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

For those who love heat, adding spice to your carbonara can give it a bold and exciting twist.

🔥 Ways to spice it up:

• Add extra red pepper flakes while cooking the shrimp.
• Mix in ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning for a Southern twist.
• Drizzle a little sriracha or hot sauce before serving.
• Use spicy Italian sausage instead of pancetta for extra kick.

This version pairs well with a glass of chilled white wine to balance the heat!

4. Creamy Garlic Mushroom Carbonara

If you love mushrooms, this version will add an earthy, umami-rich flavor to your carbonara.

🍄 How to make it:

• Sauté sliced cremini or shiitake mushrooms in olive oil before adding shrimp and chicken.
• Add an extra clove of garlic for a deeper flavor.
• Mix in a bit of truffle oil for a gourmet touch.

✅ Tip: This version works well with fettuccine or tagliatelle pasta, as the wider noodles hold onto the sauce better.

5. Vegetarian Carbonara (Meat-Free Twist)

If you want to skip the chicken, shrimp, and bacon, you can still enjoy a delicious vegetarian carbonara with a few ingredient swaps.

🥦 Best vegetarian protein replacements:

• Mushrooms – Adds a meaty texture.
• Smoked tofu or tempeh – Replaces bacon with a plant-based option.
• Roasted cauliflower – Provides a subtle, nutty flavor.

✅ Use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smokiness of pancetta.

6. Seafood-Only Carbonara

Want to make a luxurious seafood carbonara? Skip the chicken and focus on high-quality seafood for a more decadent meal.

🦐 Best seafood options:

• Jumbo shrimp or prawns – The main protein.
• Lobster meat – For an indulgent upgrade.
• Scallops – Adds a buttery texture.
• Crab meat – A delicate, sweet addition.

✅ Tip: Use butter and white wine to sauté the seafood for extra richness.

7. Carbonara with a Smoky BBQ Twist

If you love bold, smoky flavors, this version adds BBQ elements while keeping the creamy sauce intact.

🔥 How to infuse smoky flavors:

• Use smoked gouda or smoked cheddar instead of Parmesan.
• Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the chicken seasoning.
• Drizzle a touch of BBQ sauce before serving (optional but delicious!).

✅ Pair this version with grilled bread or roasted corn for a BBQ-style meal.

8. Carbonara with a Lemon Zest Twist

Adding citrus can brighten up carbonara and make it feel lighter and fresher.

🍋 How to add a citrusy touch:

• Zest 1 lemon and mix it into the egg and cheese mixture.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the finished pasta.
• Garnish with fresh basil and parsley for extra freshness.

✅ This version pairs well with seafood and is perfect for summer meals!

Final Thoughts on Customizing Carbonara

Carbonara is an incredibly versatile dish, and these variations show just how many ways you can tweak it to suit your personal tastes. Whether you prefer it spicy, extra cheesy, seafood-heavy, or vegetarian, there’s a perfect version for everyone!

Pairing Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara with Sides

A rich and creamy dish like Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara pairs best with light, fresh, and slightly acidic sides to balance the flavors. The right side dishes can elevate your meal and make it even more satisfying. Below are some of the best sides, salads, bread options, and drinks to serve with carbonara.

1. Best Side Dishes for Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Since carbonara is already a heavy and rich dish, you want sides that are light, fresh, and slightly acidic to cleanse the palate.

🥗 Fresh Salads

• Classic Caesar Salad – The creamy dressing and crispy romaine lettuce complement carbonara well.
• Arugula and Cherry Tomato Salad – The peppery arugula and juicy tomatoes add a refreshing contrast.
• Lemon Kale Salad – The citrus flavor helps cut through the creaminess.
• Caprese Salad – Fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes balance the richness of the pasta.

🥦 Roasted or Grilled Vegetables

• Asparagus – Lightly roasted with olive oil and lemon for a bright side.
• Zucchini and Bell Peppers – Their sweetness pairs beautifully with carbonara’s salty flavors.
• Brussels Sprouts – Roasted with a balsamic glaze to add acidity.

🍋 Citrus-Based Sides

• Lemon-Garlic Green Beans – Adds a fresh, zesty touch.
• Roasted Cauliflower with Parmesan – A lighter, crispy side dish.
• Grilled Artichokes – Brushed with olive oil and lemon juice for a Mediterranean twist.

2. Best Bread Options to Serve with Carbonara

A side of warm, crusty bread is always a great choice with pasta. It helps soak up the delicious sauce and adds texture to the meal.

🥖 Garlic Bread – A classic pairing that enhances the creamy carbonara sauce.
🍞 Focaccia Bread – Its herby, olive oil-infused taste complements the dish.
🥐 Parmesan Breadsticks – A crispy, cheesy addition to the meal.
🧄 Toasted Ciabatta – Light and airy with a crispy crust, perfect for dipping.

✅ Tip: Serve bread with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for an extra gourmet touch.

3. Wine Pairing with Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Since carbonara is a rich, creamy dish, the best wine pairings are those with good acidity and light fruit flavors to cleanse the palate.

🍷 White Wine Pairings (Best for shrimp and creamy pasta)

• Chardonnay – A buttery white wine that complements the creamy sauce.
• Pinot Grigio – Crisp and light, balancing the richness.
• Sauvignon Blanc – High acidity, making it a great contrast to carbonara.

🍷 Red Wine Pairings (Best for chicken and smoky bacon flavors)

• Pinot Noir – A light-bodied red that doesn’t overpower the dish.
• Chianti – An Italian classic with bright acidity to cut through the richness.
• Sangiovese – Pairs well with the salty, umami flavors of Parmesan and pancetta.

🍹 Non-Alcoholic Drink Pairings

• Sparkling Water with Lemon – Refreshing and helps cleanse the palate.
• Iced Green Tea – Light and slightly bitter to balance the dish.
• Homemade Lemonade – The acidity contrasts the creamy pasta beautifully.

4. Perfect Desserts to End the Meal

Since carbonara is a heavy and indulgent dish, you’ll want a light and refreshing dessert to finish your meal.

🍋 Lemon Sorbet – A fresh, tangy finish to cleanse the palate.
🍓 Fresh Berries with Whipped Cream – Light, sweet, and slightly acidic.
🍮 Panna Cotta – An Italian classic that’s creamy but not too heavy.
🍫 Dark Chocolate Mousse – Rich, but the bitterness of dark chocolate balances the meal.

✅ Tip: Avoid overly heavy or dense desserts, like cheesecake, which may feel too filling after a carbonara dish.

Final Thoughts on Pairing Carbonara with Sides

The best sides for Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara are those that add freshness, acidity, and lightness to contrast the rich, creamy sauce. Whether you choose a simple salad, roasted vegetables, or a refreshing wine pairing, these additions will elevate your meal into a restaurant-worthy experience!

More Recipes to Try

• If you love creamy pasta dishes, you might also enjoy the Croque Monsieur Recipe, a decadent French sandwich with gooey cheese and crispy bread.
• Looking for more seafood inspiration? Try this Lobster Roll: The Ultimate Guide for a taste of coastal flavors.
• For a comforting and hearty dinner, check out this Easy Sloppy Joe Casserole, packed with savory goodness.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the golden rule of cooking a carbonara?

The golden rule of carbonara is to never cook the sauce over direct heat. The heat from the freshly cooked pasta should be enough to gently thicken the egg and cheese mixture, creating a silky, creamy sauce.

✅ Key Tips:

• Remove the pan from heat before adding the egg mixture.
• Toss continuously to prevent scrambling.
• Use reserved warm pasta water to help emulsify the sauce.

2. What are the biggest carbonara mistakes?

The most common mistakes when cooking carbonara include:

Using too much heat – This can scramble the eggs, making the sauce lumpy.
Adding cream – Traditional carbonara relies on eggs and cheese for creaminess, not heavy cream.
Not reserving pasta water – The starchy pasta water helps create a smooth, silky sauce.
Overcooking the proteins – Shrimp and chicken can become tough if cooked too long.
Using pre-grated cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano melts much better.

3. How do you keep carbonara sauce from curdling?

To prevent the sauce from curdling or turning into scrambled eggs:

Lower the heat – Let the pan cool slightly before adding the egg mixture.
Toss continuously – Stir the pasta constantly while adding the sauce.
Use pasta water – The starchy water helps emulsify and smooth out the sauce.
Temper the eggs – If needed, mix a little warm pasta water into the egg mixture before adding it to the pasta.

4. Which ingredient should never be used in traditional carbonara?

The one ingredient never used in authentic Italian carbonara is cream.

🚫 No heavy cream! Traditional carbonara gets its creamy texture from eggs, cheese, and pasta water—not dairy-based cream. While some modern versions include it for extra richness, Italians consider it unnecessary for an authentic dish.

🚫 Other non-traditional ingredients to avoid:

• Garlic (Traditional recipes do not use it, though it’s common in American versions.)
• Butter (Pancetta or bacon fat provides enough richness.)
• Onions or mushrooms (They are delicious but not part of authentic carbonara.)

Conclusion

Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara is the perfect blend of comfort and indulgence, combining rich flavors, creamy textures, and satisfying ingredients into one unforgettable dish. Whether you prefer it extra cheesy, with a touch of spice, or packed with even more protein, this recipe is easy to customize and always delicious.

This dish proves that homemade pasta can be just as luxurious as restaurant-style meals, yet simple enough to make on a weeknight. Serve it with a side of garlic bread, a fresh salad, or a glass of wine, and you’ve got the perfect Italian-inspired dinner.

So why wait? Try making Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara today and indulge in a pasta dish that’s as creamy, flavorful, and satisfying as it gets! 🍝🔥

Key Takeaways for Perfect Carbonara:

Skip the cream – Traditional carbonara gets its creamy texture from eggs, cheese, and pasta water.
Remove the pan from heat before adding the egg mixture – This prevents scrambling and ensures a silky sauce.
Use freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano – It melts better and enhances the dish’s flavor.
Cook shrimp and chicken properly – Overcooking can make them tough; aim for juicy, tender proteins.
Pair wisely – Serve with light salads, roasted vegetables, garlic bread, and a crisp white wine for the best dining experience.

Final Words of Encouragement

With this guide, you now have all the tips and techniques to make a delicious and perfectly balanced Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara. Whether you’re preparing it for a special dinner, family meal, or simply indulging in comfort food, this recipe is guaranteed to impress.

Now it’s time to head to the kitchen and bring this Italian-inspired dish to life! 🍝✨

Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara: A Creamy & Indulgent Italian Dish

This Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara is a rich, creamy, and savory pasta dish, combining tender chicken, succulent shrimp, crispy bacon, and a silky Parmesan-egg sauce. Inspired by the classic Italian Carbonara, this version adds a protein-packed twist while maintaining the authentic, creamy texture. Perfect for a special dinner, date night, or an indulgent meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American, Italian

Servings 4

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling pasta
• Large skillet or frying pan (for cooking chicken, shrimp, and bacon)
• Mixing bowl (for egg-Parmesan mixture)
• Whisk (for mixing sauce)
• Tongs (for tossing pasta)
• Cutting board & sharp knife

Ingredients

  

• For the Pasta:
• 12 oz spaghetti or fettuccine
• 4 cups water for boiling
• 1 tbsp salt for pasta water
• For the Chicken & Shrimp:
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced thinly
• ½ lb large shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp paprika
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• For the Carbonara Sauce:
• 4 slices bacon chopped
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream optional, for extra creaminess
• 1 tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes optional, for spice
• For Garnish Optional:
• ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh cracked black pepper

Instructions

 

• Step 1: Cook the Pasta
• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
• Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
• Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain and set aside.
• Step 2: Cook the Chicken & Shrimp
• In a bowl, season chicken and shrimp with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and paprika.
• Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
• In the same pan, cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
• Step 3: Prepare the Carbonara Sauce
• In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, Parmesan cheese, black pepper, and heavy cream (if using).
• In the same skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
• Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
• Step 4: Assemble the Carbonara
• Lower heat to low and return pasta to the skillet with bacon and garlic.
• Slowly pour in the egg-Parmesan mixture, stirring quickly to create a creamy sauce.
• Add reserved pasta water a little at a time until the sauce reaches a silky consistency.
• Toss in cooked chicken and shrimp, stirring gently to coat.
• Step 5: Serve & Enjoy
• Garnish with parsley, extra Parmesan, and fresh black pepper.
• Serve immediately for the best texture!

Notes

No Cream Version: Traditional Carbonara doesn’t use cream—just eggs, Parmesan, and pasta water.
Make it Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or chili oil.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
Avoid Scrambled Eggs: Keep the heat low when adding the egg mixture to prevent it from scrambling.

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