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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

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This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish packed with juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and a rich, spicy Cajun cream sauce. Tossed with fettuccine or penne, this restaurant-quality meal comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!

Ingredients

Scale

For the Protein:

  • 1 large boneless, skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
  • ½ pound large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

For the Pasta & Sauce:

  • 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup chicken broth
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ cup cherry tomatoes (halved, optional)
  • ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
  • Extra Parmesan cheese for topping

Instructions

1. Cook the Pasta:

  • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.

2. Cook the Chicken and Shrimp:

  • Season the chicken pieces with ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
  • Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  • Add chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  • Season the shrimp with the remaining ½ teaspoon Cajun seasoning.
  • In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 2 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.

3. Make the Cajun Cream Sauce:

  • In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter and sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds.
  • Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well.
  • Add Parmesan cheese, Cajun seasoning, paprika, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and simmer for 3-4 minutes, until slightly thickened.
  • Toss in cherry tomatoes (if using) and let them soften for 1 minute.

4. Combine & Serve:

  • Add the drained pasta to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
  • Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet, stirring to combine.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • For a spicier kick, add an extra teaspoon of Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
  • Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.
  • Substitute protein: Try andouille sausage, salmon, or tofu instead of shrimp and chicken.
  • Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free pasta.

Find it online: https://ukfinda.com/creamy-cajun-shrimp-and-chicken-pasta/