Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Are you ready to dive into a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright irresistible? Let me introduce you to Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara! This delicious recipe combines tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a delectable creamy sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Imagine a comforting bowl of this dish on a weeknight or served at your next gathering—it’s bound to impress!

This dish has a special place in many hearts (and stomachs!). It’s easy to whip up, and the combination of hearty ingredients means you’ll leave the table satisfied. Fun fact: did you know that carbonara traditionally hails from Italy? However, this twist offers a delightful flair that makes it uniquely beloved by many! If you’ve tried fettuccine alfredo and loved it, you’re going to adore this creamy carbonara as well. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into this delicious recipe—you won’t regret it!

What is Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara?

So, what’s in a name? Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara sounds fancy, right? You might even picture yourself sipping wine at a quaint Italian restaurant. But fear not—this dish is simple enough for a home cook! Carbonara is known for its creamy, rich sauce, traditionally made with eggs and cheese. The inclusion of chicken and shrimp makes this version even heartier and flavorful. The saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and trust me, this dish will certainly make its way into your heart too! If you’re intrigued, why not try making it tonight?

Why You’ll Love This Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

You’re probably wondering what makes Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara so special. First off, the main highlight of this dish is its creamy, dreamy sauce that coats every strand of pasta and plump piece of chicken and shrimp, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Second, making this delightful dish at home is surprisingly cost-effective. Why spend a fortune dining out when you can replicate that luscious taste right in your kitchen? Third, the toppings! Fresh parsley, grated Parmesan, and cracked black pepper all come together to add layers of flavor that elevate this dish to new heights. If you’ve enjoyed classic pasta primavera and want to try something a bit different, this carbonara will knock your socks off! Give it a shot, and I promise you won’t be disappointed.

How to Make Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Quick Overview

Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara is not only easy to prepare but also promises a symphony of delightful flavors. In just about 30 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, satisfying meal that everyone will rave about. Plus, it’s a great way to bring restaurant-quality dining right to your dinner table!

Key Ingredients for Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
• 8 oz shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz fettuccine or bucatini pasta
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by boiling a large pot of water. Add a generous pinch of salt, and cook the fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and pepper. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, roughly 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and season with a little more salt and pepper. Sauté until the shrimp turn pink and are cooked through, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
4. Make the Sauce: Add minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir well. Bring it to a gentle simmer, then mix in the grated Parmesan cheese, stirring until melted and combined.
5. Combine: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Toss in the drained pasta and gently mix everything together, adding in reserved pasta water a little at a time until you reach your desired sauce consistency.
6. Serve: Plate your pasta and garnish with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara!

What to Serve Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara With

To create a delightful meal, consider pairing this creamy dish with a fresh Caesar salad or garlic bread. A light, crisp white wine can also elevate the dining experience, though you can enjoy it with sparkling water for a non-alcoholic touch! For an extra burst of flavor, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a simple basil pesto tossed in fresh greens.

Top Tips for Perfecting Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Want to nail this recipe? Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out spectacular every single time:

• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh shrimp and quality chicken will enhance the flavor immensely.
• Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on both the chicken and shrimp to avoid overcooking—tenderness is key!
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Use reserved pasta water to adjust sauce thickness—this step brings everything together!
• Experiment with Cheese: For a twist, try using a mix of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano for an extra tangy flavor.

Storing and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (a rare occurrence, as this dish is often a crowd-pleaser!), you can store Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen for up to one month. When it’s time to reheat, do so gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to refresh the sauce. You’ll want to avoid reheating in a microwave, as it can lead to a rubbery texture.

Now that you have all the tips and tricks, you’re ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this delightful Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara! Enjoy every creamy, delicious bite!