Looking for a decadent yet simple dinner that brings the wow factor without hours in the kitchen? Meet your new favorite comfort meal: Creamy Penne with Chicken & Shrimp. Rich, savory, and irresistibly creamy, this pasta dish is layered with tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a Parmesan-kissed sauce that will have your family scraping their plates clean.
Whether you’re planning a cozy weeknight meal, a weekend dinner party, or simply craving a creamy pasta fix, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s fast, flavorful, and full of crowd-pleasing ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
This recipe is perfect for:
- Busy weeknights – It comes together in just 30 minutes.
- Family dinners – Kid-friendly and hearty.
- Seafood lovers – A surf-and-turf twist that’s irresistible.
- Comfort food seekers – Creamy, cheesy, garlicky goodness in every bite.
Creamy Penne with Chicken & Shrimp offers a balance of protein-rich ingredients and a velvety sauce that clings to each noodle. It’s indulgent without being too heavy, and its simple preparation makes it a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s everything that goes into this luscious pasta dish:
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 1/2 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into strips
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley, for garnish
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Tongs or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Colander for draining pasta
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Pasta
Boil penne pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Chicken
Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the chicken for about 6–7 minutes, or until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the shrimp for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
4. Build the Sauce
Melt the butter in the same skillet. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir in paprika if using, and simmer for 3–4 minutes.
5. Add the Cheese
Add the grated Parmesan and stir until the sauce thickens slightly.
6. Combine Everything
Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.
7. Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh parsley and serve immediately while hot.
Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the shrimp – They cook quickly and can become rubbery if left in the skillet too long.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan – It melts more smoothly than the pre-packaged variety.
- Deglaze the skillet – After cooking the proteins, scraping up the browned bits adds depth to your sauce.
Recipe Variations & Swaps
Make this dish your own by trying these easy variations:
- Swap proteins – Use salmon, scallops, or even andouille sausage for a twist.
- Add veggies – Spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers work beautifully.
- Use a different pasta – Fettuccine, rigatoni, or bow-tie pasta are all great choices.
- Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
What to Serve With Creamy Penne with Chicken & Shrimp
Balance out the richness of the pasta with:
- Garlic bread or focaccia – Perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
- A fresh green salad – Something light and acidic like arugula with lemon vinaigrette.
- Steamed vegetables – Broccoli, asparagus, or green beans.
- Wine pairing – A chilled Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc complements the creamy sauce and seafood beautifully.
How to Store & Reheat Leftovers
Storage Tips:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To prevent the pasta from soaking up too much sauce, add a splash of cream or broth before reheating.
Reheating Tips:
- Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently.
- Alternatively, microwave in 30-second increments, stirring in between until heated through.
Freezing:
Due to the creamy sauce, freezing isn’t recommended—it may separate when thawed and reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes! Just make sure they’re thawed completely and patted dry before cooking to prevent extra water in the skillet.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can prep the chicken and shrimp in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. However, the dish is best when cooked and served fresh.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or a blend of milk and cream cheese can work in a pinch, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Not as written, but you can easily make it gluten-free by using a certified gluten-free pasta and checking that your broth and cheese are also gluten-free.
Can I make it dairy-free?
While you’d need to swap out the butter, cream, and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives, the flavor and texture will be noticeably different.
Final Thoughts
Creamy Penne with Chicken & Shrimp is the ultimate feel-good dish that’s fancy enough to impress, but simple enough for weeknight cooking. It’s one of those rare recipes that hits the trifecta of taste, texture, and ease. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this dish never disappoints.
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