Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta
Spice up your dinner table with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta! With perfectly seasoned shrimp and chicken in a rich, creamy sauce, this dish combines bold flavors with comforting textures. It’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser for weeknight meals or special occasions.
Ingredients Overview
8 oz fettuccine: The long, flat shape of fettuccine holds onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Substitute with linguine or spaghetti if needed.
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined: Opt for fresh or frozen shrimp for a burst of flavor. Tail-on or tail-off is up to you!
1 lb chicken breast, cut into small pieces: Boneless, skinless chicken breast ensures tender bites throughout the dish.
2 tbsp Cajun seasoning: Provides the dish’s signature smoky, spicy flavor. Adjust the amount to suit your heat tolerance.
2 tbsp butter: Adds richness to the dish and helps sear the proteins perfectly.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates the creamy base of the sauce. Use full-fat for the best texture.
1 cup chicken broth: Balances the creaminess and adds depth to the sauce.
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: A salty, nutty addition that thickens the sauce and boosts flavor.
Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance the dish.
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish: Adds a pop of color and freshness.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Cook fettuccine in a large pot of salted boiling water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside, tossing lightly with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Season the Proteins
Generously coat the shrimp and chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coverage for bold flavor in every bite.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp and Chicken
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and chicken to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium and pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth. Stir well to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet for added flavor. Simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add the cooked fettuccine and Parmesan cheese to the skillet, tossing gently to coat the pasta in the creamy sauce. Return the cooked shrimp and chicken to the skillet, mixing them into the pasta.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant finish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the pasta hot, straight from the skillet, with extra Parmesan cheese on the side for topping.
Tips for Perfect Cajun Pasta
1. Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly; remove them as soon as they turn pink to prevent rubbery texture.
2. Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly into the sauce.
3. Reserve some pasta water: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the starchy pasta water to loosen it.
4. Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste: For a milder dish, reduce the amount or use a less spicy blend.
5. Sear proteins in batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet to achieve a golden crust on the shrimp and chicken.
6. Let the sauce simmer: Allowing the sauce to cook for a few minutes enhances its flavor and thickness.
7. Experiment with vegetables: Add bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and color.
8. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet: This ensures even heat distribution and prevents the sauce from scorching.
9. Make it gluten-free: Swap the fettuccine for your favorite gluten-free pasta.
10. Garnish generously: Fresh parsley not only looks beautiful but also brightens up the dish.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Storing: Transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm the pasta gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, reheat in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.
Freezing: While the pasta is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Popular Questions and Answers
1. Can I use a different pasta shape?
Yes, penne, linguine, or rigatoni work well.
2. Can I make this dish dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative.
3. What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?
Try a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme.
4. Can I add vegetables?
Yes, bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms are great additions.
5. Can I make this ahead of time?
Prepare the sauce and proteins ahead, then toss with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
6. What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
Gently reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream.
7. Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?
Yes, just add them in Step 5 to avoid overcooking.
8. How spicy is this dish?
It depends on your Cajun seasoning. Adjust to your spice tolerance.
9. Can I substitute chicken thighs for chicken breast?
Absolutely! Thighs are juicier and equally delicious.
10. Can I omit the shrimp or chicken?
Yes, either protein can be left out or substituted with sausage.
11. How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add a bit more Parmesan cheese.
12. Can I add wine to the sauce?
Yes, a splash of white wine adds depth to the flavor.
13. What kind of Parmesan cheese should I use?
Freshly grated Parmesan from a block is ideal.
14. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, just ensure you have a large enough skillet.
15. Can I make this low-carb?
Serve the sauce and proteins over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.
16. What’s the best way to devein shrimp?
Use a paring knife or a shrimp deveiner tool.
17. Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes, but the sauce will be slightly thinner.
18. How do I prevent the sauce from separating?
Keep the heat low and stir frequently when adding cream.
19. Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes, replace the proteins with your favorite vegetables or plant-based alternatives.
20. How can I add more flavor to the dish?
Use homemade chicken broth and freshly cracked black pepper for an extra boost.
Enjoy this creamy, spicy, and satisfying pasta dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!
