Few dishes capture the heart like a well-made carbonara — creamy, savory, and brimming with rich flavors. Now imagine that classic comfort elevated by plump, tender shrimp and juicy, golden-seared chicken. That’s exactly what Olive Garden’s Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara delivers: a fusion of smoky pancetta, creamy parmesan sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta intertwined with hearty proteins. It’s a meal that feels luxurious but is easy enough to recreate at home.

This version is not only a fan-favorite from the Olive Garden menu, but also a perfect go-to for when you’re craving something indulgent yet satisfying. Whether you’re hosting guests or just treating yourself, the combination of textures and flavors — crispy pancetta, creamy sauce, succulent shrimp, and tender chicken — makes this dish an unforgettable dining experience.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

Restaurant-quality at home: It’s inspired by the famous Olive Garden entrée, so you get the same amazing taste without the cost.
Flavor-packed layers: Smoky pancetta, buttery shrimp, creamy sauce, and savory chicken come together in harmony.
Comfort food with elegance: It’s cozy enough for a weekday dinner and elegant enough for a special occasion.
Versatile and customizable: Swap pancetta for bacon or change up the protein to suit your taste.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use (Essential Tools and Equipment + Their Importance)

Before diving into making Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara, it’s smart to prep everything ahead and gather the tools that will help things run smoothly. Since this dish involves sautéing, boiling, and tossing, efficiency is key — and the right equipment can make all the difference.

Must-Have Tools for This Recipe:

Large Nonstick Skillet or Sauté Pan: Crucial for cooking the pancetta, chicken, and shrimp evenly without sticking. A deep skillet also helps with combining everything at the end.
Large Pot for Pasta: A stockpot or pasta pot is needed to cook spaghetti properly, giving it room to move and boil evenly.
Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Perfect for flipping shrimp and chicken without tearing them, and for transferring ingredients without excess liquid.
Cutting Board + Sharp Knife: You’ll need these for slicing chicken breasts and prepping other ingredients.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Essential to get the perfect creamy sauce ratio of cream, cheese, and egg.
Mixing Bowl: Useful for whisking together the egg yolks and cheeses for the sauce base.
Whisk: To emulsify the carbonara sauce and create that smooth, glossy texture.

Having these on hand will help you stay organized and avoid overcooking any part of the dish.

Preparation Tips

Use room temperature eggs: If you’re mixing them into a warm sauce, cold eggs could curdle. Let them sit out for about 10–15 minutes.
Prep proteins first: Slice and season your chicken, and clean and devein your shrimp before starting. This helps streamline the cooking process.
Save some pasta water: A bit of starchy water helps loosen the sauce and makes it cling better to the pasta.
Cook pasta al dente: It will finish cooking slightly when tossed with the hot sauce, so pull it off the heat just a minute early.
Avoid overcooking the shrimp: They cook quickly — just 1-2 minutes per side until pink and opaque.
Rest the cooked chicken: Let it sit before slicing so the juices stay locked in.

Ingredients for This Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara

To capture that Olive Garden flavor at home, you’ll need a mix of classic Italian ingredients and a few pantry staples. This dish has depth thanks to layers of savory, creamy, and slightly smoky notes — all built from simple yet essential components.

Protein & Pasta

2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
12–16 large shrimp (peeled and deveined, tails on or off based on preference)
12 oz spaghetti (or fettuccine if you prefer a thicker noodle)

Sauce Base

3 egg yolks
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
¼ cup grated Pecorino Romano cheese (optional but adds sharpness)

Flavor Boosters

6 strips pancetta or thick-cut bacon (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small onion (finely chopped)

Seasoning & Garnish

Salt and black pepper (to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil (for searing)
Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)

Optional Add-ins

Frozen peas or sun-dried tomatoes (for added color and variety)
Shaved parmesan (for topping)

With all your ingredients measured and ready, you’ll be perfectly set to move into the cooking phase without missing a beat.

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

This dish comes together in a few manageable steps — the key is to multitask smartly and build flavors in layers. Let’s get into it.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the spaghetti and cook until al dente, about 8–9 minutes. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set the pasta aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce Base

In a mixing bowl, whisk together:

3 egg yolks
1 cup heavy cream
Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheeses

Whisk until smooth and set aside at room temperature. This will be your rich, creamy carbonara base.

Step 3: Cook the Pancetta (or Bacon)

In a large nonstick skillet over medium heat, cook the pancetta until crispy, about 5–6 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of the rendered fat in the pan for extra flavor.

Step 4: Sauté the Chicken

Season chicken strips with salt and pepper. In the same skillet, add a bit of olive oil if needed, and cook chicken over medium-high heat until golden brown and cooked through (about 5–6 minutes per side). Remove and set aside.

Step 5: Cook the Shrimp

Add shrimp to the same pan. Sear for 1–2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly golden. Set them aside with the chicken.

Step 6: Sauté Garlic and Onion

In the same pan, add a little more olive oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook for 2–3 minutes until translucent and fragrant, stirring often so they don’t burn.

Step 7: Combine Everything

Lower the heat to medium-low. Return the cooked spaghetti to the skillet. Gradually pour in the sauce mixture, tossing continuously to coat the pasta evenly. Add splash of reserved pasta water to thin out the sauce if it thickens too quickly.

Stir in the crispy pancetta, chicken, and shrimp. Toss everything together gently for 1–2 minutes to warm and combine.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat. Finish with fresh parsley, extra parmesan, and a touch of black pepper or red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately while it’s hot and creamy!

Notes

Egg yolks are key: Unlike some creamy pasta dishes that use only cream, traditional carbonara relies on egg yolks for that silky texture. Don’t skip them!
Use fresh-grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that prevent smooth melting. Grate your Parmesan and Pecorino fresh for best results.
Balance is everything: The creaminess of the sauce is perfectly complemented by the smoky pancetta and juicy proteins — don’t overpower it with too much salt or cheese.
Pasta water magic: That starchy water helps the sauce emulsify and cling to the pasta, giving it a restaurant-style finish.

Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

Adding eggs directly to hot pan: If the skillet is too hot when you add the egg-based sauce, you’ll end up with scrambled eggs. Always reduce the heat and stir constantly.
Overcooking shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly — leaving them too long in the pan will make them rubbery.
Neglecting the pasta water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can leave you with a thick, clumpy sauce.
Using cold ingredients: Eggs, cheese, and cream should all be at room temperature. Cold ingredients may cause the sauce to break.
Over-salting early on: Between the pancetta, cheese, and seasoned proteins, this dish already packs a salty punch. Season carefully.
Crowding the pan: Searing shrimp or chicken in batches helps achieve that perfect golden exterior. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of browning.
Skipping the garnish: A sprinkle of parsley and extra cheese adds color, aroma, and a final flavor boost.
Rushing the sauce: Give the sauce a minute or two on low heat to thicken and coat the pasta, but don’t let it boil or it might curdle.

What to Serve With Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara?

This dish is rich, creamy, and indulgent — so pairing it with the right sides helps create balance and elevate the entire meal. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner or a cozy night in, these options will complement the savory, creamy carbonara beautifully.

8 Recommendations:

Garlic Bread or Breadsticks
Soft on the inside with a crispy, garlicky exterior, these are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on the plate.
Classic Caesar Salad
The crisp romaine, creamy dressing, and crunchy croutons offer a refreshing contrast to the pasta’s richness.
Steamed or Roasted Broccoli
Lightly seasoned broccoli brings a pop of color and a healthy crunch that cuts through the creaminess.
Sautéed Green Beans with Lemon
Bright and zesty green beans enhance the meal without adding heaviness.
Tomato Basil Soup
A light, aromatic soup makes a wonderful appetizer to start the meal with comforting warmth and acidity.
Caprese Salad
Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze add a burst of brightness to your plate.
Zucchini Noodles (Zoodles)
A low-carb alternative or side option that balances the pasta with freshness and texture.
Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio
If you’re adding wine to the evening, these white wines pair wonderfully with the seafood and creamy sauce without overpowering them.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers of Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara can taste just as delicious the next day — if you store and reheat them correctly. The goal is to preserve the creamy texture without drying out or overcooking the proteins.

How to Store:

Refrigerator: Place leftovers in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Avoid Freezing: The creamy sauce and seafood don’t freeze well — they can become grainy and rubbery when thawed.

Reheating Tips:

Stovetop Method (Best Option): Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk and a little reserved pasta water (if saved). Stir constantly to keep the sauce smooth.
Microwave Method: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, and add a spoonful of cream or milk to help rehydrate the sauce.

Estimated Nutrition (Per Serving – Based on 4 Servings)

Please note this is an approximation and can vary based on exact portion size and ingredient brands used:

Calories: 720–780 kcal
Protein: 42g
Carbohydrates: 55g
Fat: 38g
Saturated Fat: 18g
Cholesterol: 275mg
Sodium: 950mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g

This meal is protein-packed and indulgently rich, making it a satisfying choice for a hearty dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep components in advance — cook the pasta, prep the sauce, and store proteins separately. However, it’s best assembled and served fresh for the creamiest texture.

2. Can I substitute the shrimp or chicken with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use grilled salmon, turkey, Italian sausage, or even keep it vegetarian by adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables instead.

3. Is it safe to reheat the egg-based sauce?

Yes, as long as you reheat it gently on low heat and stir consistently to prevent curdling. Avoid boiling.

4. What type of pasta works best for this recipe?

Spaghetti or fettuccine are traditional, but linguine, bucatini, or penne work well too. Choose something with enough surface area to hold the creamy sauce.

5. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

You can, but the sauce won’t be as rich or thick. Half-and-half is a better substitute if you’re looking to cut back slightly without sacrificing creaminess.

6. How do I know when shrimp are cooked perfectly?

Shrimp are done when they’re pink and opaque, with a slight curl. Overcooking makes them rubbery, so keep an eye on them — 1–2 minutes per side is usually enough.

7. What’s the best way to get crispy pancetta or bacon?

Start it in a cold pan, then gradually bring up the heat. This helps the fat render out slowly and gives you a crispy, golden texture.

8. Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta, and make sure all sauces and cheeses used are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara is everything you want in a decadent, homemade pasta dish — creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein. It’s the perfect fusion of comfort and elegance, delivering restaurant-quality results in your own kitchen. With the silky richness of carbonara sauce, crispy pancetta, juicy chicken, and tender shrimp, each bite is a harmony of textures and taste.

Whether you’re treating yourself or impressing guests, this dish offers an unforgettable dining experience. It’s versatile, indulgent, and surprisingly easy to pull off. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again.