Name: Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (can use chicken tenders); 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 ounces bacon, cut into small pieces; 1 pound bucatini pasta; 1 large yellow onion, diced; 1 large red bell pepper, sliced thin; 10 cloves garlic, minced; 4 large egg yolks; 4 ounces parmesan cheese, freshly grated; 1 cup heavy whipping cream; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (optional); 4 teaspoons kosher salt, divided; 1.5 teaspoons black pepper, divided; 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided; Fresh parsley (optional); 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 tablespoons reserved bacon fat; 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional); 1 cup reserved pasta water

Print Recipe· 4.4 from 13 reviews

If you are looking for a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy chicken, succulent shrimp, smoky bacon, and an indulgently creamy sauce all come together with bucatini pasta to create a meal that’s both comforting and impressive. It’s one of those recipes that feels special enough for guests but is simple enough to whip up any night of the week. Trust me, once you experience the rich flavors and velvety textures, it will quickly become a go-to in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows an overhead view of various raw ingredients neatly placed on a white marbled surface. At the center, a white bowl holds raw chicken pieces on one side and gray shrimp with tails on the other. Surrounding this bowl are smaller white bowls filled with bright orange egg yolks, shredded white Parmesan cheese, finely chopped white onion, minced garlic, dark green chopped parsley, and small brown bacon pieces. There are also small dishes with spices including black pepper, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, and kosher salt, all in shades of brown and reddish-brown. A white scalloped dish contains reddish sliced red bell peppers, and another small white bowl houses golden breadcrumbs. Near the top, bundles of long, dry yellow bucatini pasta peek out from brown paper wrappings, while a glass container of creamy white heavy cream and a small white plate with a block of pale yellow unsalted butter sit nearby. A small cup of olive oil adds a golden touch. The ingredients are spread out with clear labels identifying each item. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Recipe lies in its straightforward yet high-impact ingredients. Each component plays an essential role, from the crispy bacon bits adding crunch, to the creamy parmesan-infused sauce coating every noodle, and the fresh herbs lifting the dish with brightness.

Panko breadcrumbs (optional): Adds a delightful crunch and golden color when toasted, but you can skip if you prefer.
Kosher salt: Enhances every ingredient and balances the flavors perfectly.
Black pepper: Provides subtle heat and depth without overpowering the other tastes.
Olive oil: Used for cooking the protein and vegetables, giving a fruity richness.
Fresh parsley (optional): A fresh, slightly peppery touch that brightens the finished dish.
Bacon: The cornerstone of carbonara, its smoky fat is essential for that classic flavor.
Reserved bacon fat: Intensifies the dish’s savory qualities when sautéing veggies.
Italian seasoning: A fragrant blend that brings a Mediterranean flair.
Smoked paprika (optional): Adds a subtle smoky warmth complementing the bacon and seafood.
Boneless skinless chicken breast: Tender and juicy, it’s the hearty protein base for this dish.
Shrimp (peeled and deveined): Brings a sweet, briny flavor that pairs so well with chicken.
Unsalted butter: Adds creaminess and helps soften the vegetables.
Yellow onion: Provides sweetness and texture when sautéed to soft perfection.
Red bell pepper: Offers a pop of color and mild sweetness.
Garlic: The aromatic backbone that enhances every bite.
Egg yolks: The secret to the luscious carbonara sauce, rich and silky.
Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Gives a salty, nutty depth to the sauce.
Heavy whipping cream: Ensures the sauce is smooth, rich, and luxurious.
Bucatini pasta: Thick and hollow, perfect for holding the creamy sauce.
Reserved pasta water: Helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency.

How to Make Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Breadcrumbs (Optional)

If you choose to include the panko breadcrumbs, start by spreading them on a baking sheet seasoned with salt, pepper, parsley, and olive oil. Bake until golden and crisp for that irresistible texture contrast in your dish. This simple step adds an unexpected bit of crunch that will elevate every bite.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Next, cook the bacon over medium heat until it’s nicely browned and crispy. Don’t toss out all the fat—reserve two tablespoons to sauté your veggies later. The bacon pieces will bring a savory crunch that perfectly complements the creamy elements of this recipe.

Step 3: Season and Sear the Chicken

Season the chicken with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and Italian seasoning for that extra layer of flavor. Cook it in olive oil until it’s browned and juicy throughout, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Let it rest briefly before chopping to keep all the juices locked in those tender bites.

Step 4: Cook the Shrimp

Season your shrimp much like the chicken and cook them quickly over medium-high heat. Shrimp cook fast—about a minute per side is plenty. They should be opaque and tender, adding a sweet and light contrast to the richness of the sauce and chicken.

Step 5: Prepare the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a rolling boil to cook the bucatini just until it’s al dente, slightly under the package’s recommended time. This way, the pasta can soak up the sauce further without becoming mushy. Reserving some pasta water will help you adjust the sauce’s texture perfectly later.

Step 6: Sauté the Vegetables

In the skillet with butter and bacon fat, soften the onions and bell peppers until they’re translucent and tender. Their natural sweetness will balance the salty bacon and savory proteins. A quick toss with garlic at the end brings that delicious fragrant punch that every great carbonara needs.

Step 7: Whisk the Carbonara Sauce

Whisk together egg yolks, heavy cream, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. This combination creates a silky, rich sauce that will coat every strand of bucatini beautifully. Whisking thoroughly ensures no lumps and a smooth, glossy finish.

Step 8: Bring It All Together

With the skillet off the heat, add the cooked pasta and slowly pour the egg mixture while tossing constantly. Use reserved pasta water little by little to help the sauce cling perfectly without scrambling the eggs. This technique makes the sauce creamy and luscious, elevating the entire plate.

Step 9: Combine Protein and Finish

Fold in the chicken, bacon, shrimp, and fresh parsley to the pasta and sauce, giving everything a gentle toss until combined. Adjust salt and pepper to your taste. If you toasted breadcrumbs, sprinkle them on top along with extra parmesan for an amazing finishing texture and flavor.

How to Serve Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Recipe

The image shows a white pan filled with spaghetti mixed in a creamy, light orange sauce with visible bits of tomato. On top of the pasta, there are four main layers: on the left side, golden-brown pieces of cooked chicken; on the bottom left center, dark red crispy bacon bits; on the right side, a group of reddish-orange cooked shrimp with a light char; and in the middle, a small pile of fresh green chopped parsley. A pair of silver tongs grips some shrimp on the right side of the pan. Around the pan, on a white marbled surface, there are small beige plates with pieces of chicken and a small bowl of chopped parsley. A beige cloth is draped in the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Brighten your plate with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and freshly grated parmesan cheese. The parsley adds color and freshness while parmesan intensifies the savory notes of the dish. Don’t forget a few crunchy toasted breadcrumbs on top—they add a delightful texture contrast that guests will love.

Side Dishes

For a well-rounded meal, serve this rich carbonara with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. The acidity cuts through the creaminess and refreshes the palate. Roasted asparagus or garlic bread also make fantastic, easy sides that complement the flavors without overwhelming them.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Recipe in shallow wide bowls to show off the pasta strands swimming in the cream sauce. Alternatively, for a dinner party, toss it all in a beautiful large serving dish and let everyone help themselves—comfort food with an elegant touch. Garnish plates individually with a sprig of parsley and a little extra parmesan for that restaurant-quality look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Because this recipe contains cream and egg yolks, it’s best not to keep or freeze it longer than that. The flavors actually deepen after a day, making for a delicious second serving.

Freezing

This Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Recipe is not ideal for freezing due to its creamy egg-based sauce which may separate or curdle. It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for short-term storage instead.

Reheating

To reheat, add a splash of pasta water and warm gently over the stovetop while stirring constantly to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture. Alternatively, microwave on medium power in short increments, stirring in between, to avoid overcooking. This careful reheating keeps the shrimp tender and the sauce silky.

FAQs

Can I substitute other pasta for bucatini?

Absolutely! While bucatini works beautifully as its hollow center holds sauce well, you can use spaghetti, fettuccine, or even linguine depending on what you have on hand. Just keep the cooking time and sauce absorption in mind.

Is it necessary to use both chicken and shrimp?

Not at all! The combination adds delightful variety in texture and flavor, but feel free to make it with just chicken or shrimp if that’s what you prefer or have available. Both work beautifully with the carbonara sauce.

How do I prevent the egg yolks from scrambling?

The key is to remove the skillet from heat before adding the egg mixture and to toss the pasta quickly and continuously while adding reserved pasta water. This gentle heat cooks the eggs slowly and creates a creamy sauce instead of scrambled eggs.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

You could try substituting the parmesan and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives, but keep in mind that parmesan adds a significant depth of flavor and texture. Coconut cream or cashew cream are great substitutions for cream, while nutritional yeast can mimic some cheesiness.

What is the best way to clean the skillet after cooking with bacon fat?

A good hot water soak followed by gentle scrubbing usually works well for cleaning the skillet after bacon fat use. Avoid harsh detergents that might strip the seasoning on cast iron; instead, rinse thoroughly and dry immediately to avoid rust.

Final Thoughts

I cannot recommend enough that you give this Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara Recipe a try. It’s a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that feels effortlessly luxurious. Whether for a weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend meal, you’ll love how the smoky bacon, tender chicken, sweet shrimp, and creamy sauce come together to satisfy cravings and warm your soul.