Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe Delight
Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal, look no further than Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta. This dish combines succulent shrimp and tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, making it a perfect choice for any dinner occasion. With a touch of Cajun spice, this recipe will tantalize your taste buds and leave your family asking for seconds!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is a delightful way to bring together the flavors of shrimp and chicken in a single dish. The creamy sauce is rich and flavorful, thanks to the combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Plus, you can customize the dish with your favorite vegetables and adjust the spice level to suit your taste. It’s quick to prepare and makes for great leftovers, making it ideal for busy weeknights or whenever you’re craving something special.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta (penne or fettuccine)
- Salt (for boiling water)
- 1 lb chicken breast, sliced into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (more to taste)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
- Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- Spinach or kale (optional)
Directions
Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: In the same pan, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed. Add the shrimp and season with a pinch of salt and Cajun seasoning. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Let reduce for 2-3 minutes. Lower heat, slowly mix in heavy cream and stir to combine.
Step 5: Gradually add Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and creamy. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the sauce, tossing to coat. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta
Serve your Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and more Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. This dish pairs well with a side salad or garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
How to Store Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, place the remaining pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the pasta in a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Tips to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta
- Adjust the spice level by adding more or less Cajun seasoning.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or zucchini, for extra nutrition.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
Variation
For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta. You can also substitute tofu for chicken for a vegetarian version of this recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen shrimp?
Yes, you can use frozen shrimp. Just make sure to thaw them completely before cooking.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and shrimp ahead of time. However, for best results, it’s better to cook the pasta fresh when you’re ready to serve.
3. What can I use if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
You can make your own Cajun seasoning using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and thyme for a similar flavor.
Enjoy your cooking experience and savor every bite of your Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta!
