Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces; 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 12 oz fettuccine pasta; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 teaspoon onion powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon butter; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 1/2 cups heavy cream; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup chicken broth; Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a delicious and hearty dish that brings together the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning with tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and creamy pasta. This meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With its rich sauce and satisfying ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is a great choice for several reasons. First, it combines two of the most loved proteins—chicken and shrimp—creating a comforting and filling meal. Second, the Cajun spices add a unique kick that sets it apart from traditional pasta dishes. Finally, this creamy pasta can be made in under 30 minutes, making it a perfect option for busy nights without sacrificing flavor.

How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Cooking Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is easy and straightforward. Here’s how you can prepare this mouthwatering dish:

Ingredients :

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 oz fettuccine pasta
3 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 1/2 cups heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup chicken broth
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions :

Cook the fettuccine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
In a small bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
Season the chicken and shrimp with the spice mixture.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken pieces for 5-7 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
Melt the butter in the same skillet and sauté the garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and Parmesan cheese. Stir to combine and let it simmer for 3-5 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Add the cooked chicken, shrimp, and pasta to the skillet. Toss to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve immediately.

How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

To serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta, scoop generous portions into bowls. For extra flavor, you can sprinkle more Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped parsley on top. This dish pairs well with a side salad and some crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

How to Store Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to prevent it from drying out.

Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Make sure to not overcook the shrimp, as they can become rubbery. They only need a few minutes until they’re pink and opaque.
Adjust the level of Cajun seasoning to your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, you can use less seasoning.
For added nutrition, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to the sauté.

Variation

If you want to switch things up, you can try using different types of pasta such as penne or linguine. You can also add vegetables like zucchini or tomatoes for extra flavor and texture.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just thaw them in advance before cooking.

2. What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream for a lighter version.

3. Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and cook the chicken and shrimp ahead of time. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.