Irresistible Copycat Olive Garden Chicken Shrimp Carbonara Recipe

There’s something magical about Italian food—the aroma of garlic sizzling in olive oil, the comforting texture of creamy pasta, and flavors that dance on your palate. One of my all-time favorite memories is indulging in a warm bowl of Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara at Olive Garden with friends. The moment the waitress sets down that steamy plate, you know you’re in for a treat. The rich, creamy sauce, succulent chicken, and perfectly cooked shrimp always remind me of cozy nights, laughter, and endless conversations over dinner.

Today, I’m thrilled to share my very own version of this beloved classic—my Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara. It’s rich, comforting, and easy to whip up for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Trust me; you’re going to love making this dish at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
• Budget-friendly: Less expensive than dining out!
• Comfort food at its best: Creamy, hearty, and totally satisfying.
• Versatile: Customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Impress your guests: Serve this dish and watch the smiles unfold.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara:

• 8 ounces fettuccine or spaghetti pasta
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced
• 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 slices bacon, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered!)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Flat-leaf parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time:

1. Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine or spaghetti and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove from skillet and let it drain on paper towels. Leave some bacon drippings in the pan for flavor.
3. Sauté the chicken: In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the diced chicken. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is nicely browned and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
4. Add shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Add the minced garlic during the last minute of cooking to avoid burning. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
5. Make the sauce: Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine with the leftover drippings. Gradually sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, whisking constantly until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens a bit. Feel free to adjust thickness to your liking by adding extra cream or a splash of pasta water.
6. Combine: Bring the chicken and shrimp back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss in the cooked pasta, ensuring everything is coated in that heavenly sauce. Taste and season more if needed. (Watch out, it’s easy to get carried away with the salt when adding more Parmesan!)
7. Serve: Transfer to plates or a large serving dish. Crumble the crispy bacon on top and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Pro Tips & Variations

Cooking is all about experimenting! Here are some fun variations and pro tips to make your Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara uniquely yours:

• Add veggies: Try tossing in some sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers for a nutritious pop of color and flavor.
• Spice it up: For a little kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce.
• Protein swaps: Feel free to swap out shrimp or chicken for your protein of choice—think grilled salmon, or even some crispy tofu for a vegetarian version!
• Cheese variety: While Parmesan is traditional, mixing in some Pecorino Romano or even some creamy goat cheese can elevate your dish.

Whatever you choose, remember to have fun with it and make it your own!

Serving Suggestions

This dish is truly a family favorite and best served with a side of garlic bread to soak up that delicious sauce. A fresh green salad tossed with a bright vinaigrette complements it perfectly, cutting through the richness of the carbonara. And don’t forget a glass of chilled Chardonnay or a sparkling lemon soda to wash it all down! Just picture it: cozy family dinners or a romantic date night in with candlelight. It’s all about cozy vibes and creating memories around the table.

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers (which, let’s be honest, is a great problem to have!), here’s how to store and reheat your carbonara:

• Refrigeration: Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the carbonara, but keep in mind the sauce might change in texture when thawed. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to a month.
• Reheating: To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, or heat it gently in a skillet over low heat. If the sauce seems a bit thick, add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to revive it.

FAQs

Can I use another type of pasta?

Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional, you can use any pasta shape you love, like penne or linguine. Just adjust the cooking time as necessary!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep components in advance. Cook the pasta, chicken, shrimp, and sauce separately, and combine them just before you’re ready to serve. This reduces the chance of overcooking!

What can I replace the heavy cream with for a lighter version?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a slightly lighter version. Alternatively, use a mixture of milk with a bit of cream for the same effect, though it may not be quite as rich.

Is there a vegetarian version of this carbonara?

You bet! You can use mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant as your protein substitutes, and swap in a plant-based cream for a great vegetarian alternative. Just crank up those flavors with garlic and spices!

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?

No worries! If your sauce ends up too thick, just add a splash of pasta water or more cream to loosen it up. Stir well, and it will be creamy and glorious in no time!

Conclusion

I hope you enjoy making this Copycat Olive Garden Chicken and Shrimp Carbonara as much as I do! It’s the perfect dish for showing love through food, and I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you. Did you add your own twists? Share your experience, or let me know your favorite Italian dish in the comments below. Happy cooking!