Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a bold and flavorful dish loaded with juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce. Made with simple ingredients and packed with zesty Cajun seasoning, this comforting pasta is perfect for an easy and delicious dinner.
Ingredients
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add shrimp, season with half of the Cajun seasoning, and cook for 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add diced chicken and remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
- Add butter and garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir and let simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Add the cooked pasta, shrimp, and chicken back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
- Stir in cherry tomatoes if using, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste for more or less spice.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version.
- Use smoked sausage instead of chicken for a different twist.
- Best served fresh but can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner, Pasta
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 950mg