Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Short Description

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish featuring tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and pasta tossed in a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce. This comforting and satisfying meal is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, bringing restaurant-quality flavors right to your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Packed with bold Cajun flavors
• Creamy, spicy, and comforting all in one dish
• Easy to make in under an hour
• Perfect for seafood and chicken lovers
• A one-pan meal that makes cleanup simple

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Protein and Pasta:

• Shrimp, peeled and deveined
• Chicken breast, sliced
• Cajun seasoning
• Olive oil
• Butter
• Penne or fettuccine pasta

For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:

• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Parmesan cheese, grated
• Paprika
• Onion powder
• Garlic powder
• Red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the Pasta:

1. Boil water in a large pot and cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Chicken and Shrimp:

1. Season the chicken and shrimp with Cajun seasoning.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Cook the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, melt butter and cook the shrimp until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

Make the Cajun Cream Sauce:

1. In the same pan, sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
2. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
3. Add Parmesan cheese, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir until smooth.
4. Let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened.

Assemble the Dish:

1. Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet.
2. Add the drained pasta and toss to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce.
3. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Extra Spicy: Add more Cajun seasoning or extra red pepper flakes.
• Veggie Boost: Mix in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach.
• Low-Carb Option: Use zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Seafood Lovers’ Version: Add scallops or crawfish for even more seafood flavor.
• Dairy-Free Alternative: Use coconut milk instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate.
• Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to maintain the sauce’s consistency.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, penne, fettuccine, or linguine all work well for this recipe.

How can I make this dish less spicy?

Use less Cajun seasoning and omit the red pepper flakes.

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end to avoid overcooking.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Store the sauce separately and mix with fresh pasta when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to cook the shrimp?

Sear them for 1-2 minutes per side over medium-high heat until pink.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer longer, or add a small slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less creamy. Use half-and-half for a better alternative.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, but homemade Cajun seasoning allows better control of spice levels.

What sides go well with this dish?

Garlic bread, side salad, or roasted vegetables pair well.

Can I make this without seafood?

Yes, just increase the amount of chicken or add sausage for variety.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a rich, spicy, and satisfying dish that’s easy to make and full of bold flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just want a comforting meal, this creamy pasta dish will quickly become a favorite. Enjoy it fresh and don’t forget the extra Parmesan on top!

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