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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 48 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Description

A flavorful and creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta dish combining tender chicken strips and succulent shrimp in a rich, spicy Alfredo-style sauce. This hearty meal features perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a luscious sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of Cajun spices, delivering bold, comforting Southern flavors ideal for a satisfying dinner.

Ingredients

Protein

  • 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips

Seasoning and Oils

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Pasta

  • 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Garnish (Optional)

  • Chopped parsley
  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
  2. Season the Protein: Toss the shrimp and chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to evenly coat the pieces.
  3. Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
  4. Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
  5. Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium, then add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
  6. Incorporate Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  7. Combine Everything: Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss carefully to coat all ingredients thoroughly in the creamy Cajun sauce.
  8. Final Heating: Cook the combined mixture for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and flavors meld.
  9. Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Notes

  • Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time; add them at the end just to heat through.
  • Add bell peppers or spinach for extra vegetables and color.
  • Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level for milder or spicier taste.

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