Sizzling Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe

Whipping up a creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta feels like a culinary adventure waiting to unfold.

Spicy flavors dance across your plate with bold Louisianan charm.

Southern comfort meets gourmet excitement in this mouthwatering dish.

Robust seasonings promise an explosion of taste that will make your dinner memorable.

Every ingredient plays a vibrant role in crafting this delectable meal.

Fragrant herbs and succulent proteins combine to create a restaurant-worthy experience right in your kitchen.

You’ll want to savor each perfectly seasoned bite of this irresistible pasta.

FAQs

• What is Cajun seasoning?

A blend of spices like paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme that gives dishes a spicy, robust flavor typical of Louisiana cuisine.

• Can I make this recipe spicier or milder?

Adjust the heat by increasing or decreasing red pepper flakes and Cajun seasoning. For less spice, use mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount of cayenne.

• Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, it contains pasta. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

• What type of pasta works best?

Fettuccine or linguine are ideal as they hold the creamy sauce well, but you can also use penne or rigatoni for similar results.

What Makes Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta Delicious

• Simplify Weeknight Cooking: This Mexican rice recipe transforms complex flavors into an easy, one-pan meal that requires minimal kitchen skills and delivers maximum taste.
• Customize Your Comfort: Versatile ingredients like peas and carrots allow home cooks to personalize the dish, making it perfect for adapting to family preferences or using leftover vegetables.
• Quick Family Crowd-Pleaser: With straightforward steps and common pantry ingredients, this rice becomes a reliable side dish that satisfies everyone from kids to adults, bringing warmth to dinner tables.
• Budget-Friendly Flavor Boost: Affordable ingredients combined with simple cooking techniques create a restaurant-quality side that elevates everyday meals without breaking the bank.

Ingredients in Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta

• Chicken: A tender protein that adds savory flavor and substance to the pasta dish.
• Shrimp: Succulent seafood that brings a delicate sweetness and oceanic touch to the recipe.

• Olive Oil, Butter: Essential for sautéing and creating a rich, golden base for cooking meats and developing deep flavors.

• Heavy Cream: Provides a luxurious, smooth texture that creates the creamy base of the pasta sauce.
• Chicken Broth: Adds depth and enhances the overall savory profile of the dish.
• Parmesan Cheese: Brings a salty, nutty complexity that enriches the sauce's flavor.

• Cajun Seasoning, Salt, Black Pepper: Core spices that provide robust and balanced seasoning for the meats.
• Smoked Paprika, Onion Powder, Red Pepper Flakes: Layers of spices that contribute warmth, smokiness, and subtle heat.

• Pasta: The foundational ingredient that carries the creamy sauce and proteins.
• Garlic: A aromatic ingredient that adds pungent depth to the overall dish.
• Fresh Parsley: A bright, fresh herb that provides a final garnish and visual appeal.

Cooking Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta the Right Way

Step 1: Boil Delightful Pasta

Cook the pasta following package directions until perfectly al dente. Drain thoroughly and set the pasta aside while preparing the remaining components.

Step 2: Sizzle Oil and Butter

Warm olive oil and butter together in a spacious skillet over medium heat, creating a delicious aromatic base for cooking.

Step 3: Season Protein Powerhouses

Generously coat chicken and shrimp with zesty Cajun seasoning, ensuring each piece is evenly covered for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Cook Golden Chicken

Sear chicken in the heated skillet, cooking for 5-7 minutes until the exterior turns beautifully golden brown and the interior becomes completely cooked. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 5: Prepare Succulent Shrimp

Quickly cook shrimp in the same skillet, sautéing 2-3 minutes per side until they transform into a vibrant pink color and become translucent. Remove shrimp from the pan.

Step 6: Infuse Garlic Essence

Add minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for a brief 30 seconds to release its aromatic flavors.

Step 7: Create Luscious Cream Sauce

Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth.

• Parmesan cheese
• Smoked paprika
• Onion powder
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes

Stir continuously until the sauce becomes smooth and harmonious.

Step 8: Simmer Sauce to Perfection

Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, watching it thicken and develop rich flavors.

Step 9: Combine Pasta and Protein

Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp into the skillet. Gently toss everything together, ensuring each ingredient is lavishly coated with the creamy sauce.

Step 10: Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish. Serve immediately while hot and incredibly appetizing.

Helpful Notes for Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta

• Swap regular pasta with whole wheat or gluten-free options for dietary needs while maintaining the rich, creamy texture.
• Reduce spice level by cutting back on Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes for sensitive palates.
• Enhance protein variety by substituting shrimp with scallops or using only chicken for a more budget-friendly meal.
• Create a lighter version by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream and adding extra vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for nutrition.
• Prep ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking process and ensure each component is perfectly seasoned and cooked.

Flavor Twists for Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta

• Spicy Mediterranean Style: Replace Cajun seasoning with Mediterranean herbs like oregano, thyme, and za'atar. Add sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese for a Greek-inspired flavor profile.
• Creamy Pesto Seafood Version: Swap Cajun seasoning for basil pesto sauce. Include additional seafood like scallops or crab meat. Incorporate roasted pine nuts for extra crunch.
• Lighter Coconut Curry Option: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream. Add mild curry powder and turmeric. Replace chicken with tofu for a vegetarian alternative. Include fresh cilantro as garnish.

Best Way to Present Cajun Pasta Combo

• Spicy Weekend Family Feast: Gather everyone around the table for a zesty dinner that brings excitement to mealtime. Pair the pasta with crusty garlic bread and a crisp green salad to balance the rich, creamy flavors.
• Coastal Dinner Party Presentation: Serve the dish in individual white bowls with a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. Add a small wedge of lemon on the side for guests to squeeze over their pasta, enhancing the seafood's bright notes.
• Meal Prep Lunch Solution: Pack individual portions in sealed containers for a delicious work or school lunch. The creamy sauce keeps the pasta moist, and the protein-packed chicken and shrimp provide sustained energy throughout the day.

How to Keep This Cajun Pasta Fresh

• Store leftover Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Keep refrigerated at 40°F or below to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled pasta to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Warm pasta in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Stir gently to prevent breaking pasta or overcooking seafood. Heat until warmed through, typically 4-5 minutes.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Succulent Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta brings together spicy Creole flavors in a rich, creamy sauce. Southern comfort meets gourmet dining with this quick and satisfying meal perfect for home cooks craving bold, zesty ingredients.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Prepare the pasta according to package directions, ensuring an al dente texture. Drain thoroughly and reserve.
2. Warm a large skillet with olive oil and butter over medium heat until butter melts completely.
3. Generously coat the chicken and shrimp with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coverage.
4. Sear the chicken in the skillet for 5-7 minutes, rotating to achieve a golden-brown exterior and complete internal cooking. Transfer to a separate plate.
5. Quickly cook the shrimp in the same skillet, approximately 2-3 minutes per side, until they turn vibrant pink and become translucent.
6. Introduce minced garlic to the pan, allowing it to release its aromatic essence for 30 seconds.
7. Create the sauce by combining heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Whisk until achieving a silky, uniform consistency.
8. Allow the sauce to simmer for 3-4 minutes, watching it thicken and develop rich flavors.
9. Reunite the pasta, chicken, and shrimp with the creamy sauce, gently tossing to ensure complete coating.
10. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the dish and serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

• Customize the Cajun seasoning blend to control spice levels, allowing heat-sensitive diners to enjoy the dish comfortably.
• Swap protein options by using plant-based chicken alternatives or tofu for a vegetarian version that maintains the creamy, flavorful profile.
• Use gluten-free pasta to make the recipe accessible for those with gluten sensitivities without compromising the rich, zesty taste.
• Reduce sauce calories by substituting half-and-half or whole milk for heavy cream, creating a lighter yet still satisfying meal.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 452 kcal
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 480 mg
• Fat: 22 g
• Saturated Fat: 9 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 0.1 g
• Carbohydrates: 31 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 38 g
• Cholesterol: 145 mg