Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe

Irresistible Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe

Craving a hearty Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta that ignites your taste buds with robust Southern flavors?

Home cooks often struggle to balance spice and creaminess in their dishes.

Authentic Louisiana-style recipes demand careful ingredient selection and precise technique.

Our carefully crafted blend combines succulent proteins with a velvety sauce that hugs each pasta strand.

Paprika, cayenne, and garlic create a complex flavor profile that dances across your palate.

Fresh ingredients and simple cooking methods make this dish accessible for weekend meal planners.

You’ll want to dive into this comforting plate that brings restaurant-quality excitement straight to your kitchen.

Storage Recommendations For Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta

  • Transfer leftover pasta to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odors from affecting the dish's flavor.
  • Cool the pasta completely before placing in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Avoid freezing cream-based sauces as they might separate when thawed.
  • Warm refrigerated pasta in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Stir gently to prevent pasta from breaking and ensure even heating.
  • Keep chicken and shrimp separate from sauce when storing to maintain optimal texture. Add protein back into sauce when reheating to prevent overcooking and maintain tenderness.

FAQs

  • What is Cajun seasoning?

A blend of paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, salt, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, and thyme that gives dishes a spicy, robust flavor typical of Louisiana cuisine.

  • Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?

Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to ensure proper seasoning and prevent excess moisture in the sauce.

  • Is Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta spicy?

The spice level depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust the heat by reducing or increasing the seasoning to suit your taste preference.

  • How do I prevent the sauce from breaking or becoming grainy?

Keep the heat low when adding cheese and stir continuously. Use room temperature cream and freshly grated Parmesan for a smoother, more consistent sauce.

Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta: What Sets It Apart

Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta: What Sets It Apart
  • Craft Delightful Flavor Combinations: This cake blends the creamy sweetness of white chocolate with tangy raspberry, creating a stunning dessert that delights taste buds with its perfect balance of rich and fruity notes.
  • Master Simple Baking Techniques: The recipe requires basic mixing and swirling skills, making it accessible for bakers of all levels who want to create an impressive-looking cake without advanced pastry training.
  • Create Stunning Dessert Centerpiece: Perfect for special occasions like birthdays, bridal showers, or elegant gatherings, this cake looks professionally made but can be prepared at home with straightforward steps.
  • Enjoy Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: Kids and adults will love the playful raspberry swirls and smooth white chocolate flavor, ensuring everyone at the table will be excited to taste this gorgeous dessert.

Ingredients For Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta

For the Proteins:
  • Chicken: Tender protein that adds substance and flavor to the creamy pasta dish.
  • Shrimp: Succulent seafood that brings a delicate texture and sweet marine taste to the recipe.
For the Pasta:
  • Pasta: Hearty base that captures and holds the rich Cajun cream sauce.
For the Sauce Components:
  • Heavy Cream: Rich dairy ingredient that creates a smooth and luxurious sauce base.
  • Chicken Broth: Flavorful liquid that enhances the depth of the sauce.
  • Parmesan Cheese: Salty and tangy cheese that melts into the sauce for extra creaminess.
  • Diced Tomatoes: Bright and acidic ingredient that adds freshness to the creamy sauce.
For the Seasonings:
  • Cajun Seasoning, Paprika, Onion Powder: Spice blend that delivers bold, zesty Cajun flavor to the dish.
  • Garlic: Aromatic ingredient that provides a deep, pungent undertone to the sauce.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Optional spicy element that adds heat and complexity.
  • Parsley: Fresh herb that provides a light, green garnish and subtle flavor.
For the Cooking Fats:
  • Olive Oil, Butter: Cooking fats that help develop flavor and create a smooth cooking surface.

Preparation Guide For Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta

Preparation Guide For Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Boil Pasta

Cook the pasta following package directions until al dente. Drain and set the pasta aside, keeping it warm.

Step 2: Sear Chicken

In a large skillet, warm olive oil and butter over medium-high heat. Season chicken with Cajun spice blend.

Cook chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes. Transfer chicken to a separate plate.

Step 3: Cook Shrimp

Use the same skillet to cook shrimp. Add shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices.

Sauté for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp turn pink and become slightly crispy. Remove shrimp and set aside.

Step 4: Create Aromatic Base

Reduce skillet heat to medium. Add remaining butter and minced garlic.

Sauté until garlic becomes fragrant and slightly golden.

Step 5: Prepare Creamy Sauce

Pour into the skillet:
  • Heavy cream
  • Chicken broth
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Paprika
  • Onion powder

Simmer the mixture for 3-4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.

Step 6: Incorporate Cheese

Stir Parmesan cheese into the sauce until completely melted and sauce becomes smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked pasta, seared chicken, and sautéed shrimp to the skillet.

Gently toss everything to ensure each ingredient is evenly coated with the rich Cajun sauce.

Step 8: Finish And Serve

Sprinkle chopped parsley and red pepper flakes on top for extra flavor and visual appeal.

Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the delicious Cajun-style pasta.

Insider Advice For Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta

  • Choose low-sodium Cajun seasoning to control salt levels and manage overall dish flavor.
  • Swap regular pasta with gluten-free or whole wheat options for dietary preferences and added nutrition.
  • Pat chicken and shrimp dry before seasoning to ensure better browning and crispy exterior texture.
  • Cut cooking time for seafood by using pre-cooked or thawed shrimp to speed up meal preparation.
  • Adjust spice levels by reducing or increasing Cajun seasoning based on personal heat tolerance and preference.

Flavor Twists For Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta

  • Spicy Mediterranean Seafood Version: Replace Cajun seasoning with Mediterranean herbs like oregano, replace chicken with white fish, add kalamata olives and spinach for a Greek-inspired pasta.
  • Vegetarian Cajun Style: Swap proteins with roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and plant-based chicken substitute, maintain the creamy sauce and Cajun spices for robust flavor.
  • Low-Carb Cauliflower Alternative: Use cauliflower rice instead of pasta, keep the rich Cajun cream sauce and proteins, reduce carbohydrate content while maintaining delicious taste profile.
  • Dairy-Free Creole Option: Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk, use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan, keep Cajun seasoning and protein mix for allergen-friendly adaptation.

Serving Ideas For Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta

  • Rustic Family-Style Sharing Platter
  • Spread the creamy pasta on a large wooden board. Arrange chicken and shrimp artfully across the top. Sprinkle extra parsley and red pepper flakes for vibrant color and texture. Perfect for casual dinner gatherings where everyone serves themselves.
  • Cajun Pasta Stuffed Peppers
  • Slice bell peppers lengthwise and remove seeds. Fill each pepper half with the creamy pasta mixture. Top with extra Parmesan cheese. Bake until peppers are tender and cheese melts. Creates a fun, portable meal with a spicy twist.
  • Creamy Cajun Pasta Lunch Bowl
  • Pack pasta in a sealed container for work or school lunches. Keep protein and sauce separate to maintain freshness. Reheat gently and mix just before eating. Adds excitement to midday meals with bold Cajun flavors.
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Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe


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4.6 from 36 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Delightful Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta brings Southern comfort to dinner tables. Rich flavors combine tender protein with spicy cream sauce, promising a memorable meal you’ll savor with each delicious bite.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
  • 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 8 oz (226 g) fettuccine or penne pasta
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsps butter
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • 2 tbsps chopped parsley
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare pasta following package guidelines; drain thoroughly and reserve.
  2. Warm olive oil and butter in a spacious skillet over medium-high temperature until shimmering.
  3. Generously coat chicken and shrimp with robust Cajun seasoning, ensuring even coverage.
  4. Sear chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked, approximately 5-7 minutes; transfer from skillet.
  5. Using the same skillet, quickly cook shrimp until they transform to vibrant pink, about 2-3 minutes per side; remove and set aside.
  6. Reduce heat to medium, introduce remaining butter and minced garlic, sautéing until aromatic and fragrant.
  7. Stream heavy cream, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, and onion powder into the skillet; allow mixture to simmer and slightly thicken for 3-4 minutes.
  8. Incorporate Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until completely melted and sauce reaches smooth consistency.
  9. Gently fold reserved pasta, previously cooked chicken, and seared shrimp into creamy Cajun sauce, ensuring thorough coating.
  10. Finish dish by sprinkling fresh chopped parsley and optional red pepper flakes for added zest; serve immediately while piping hot.

Notes

  • Adjust Cajun seasoning intensity by reducing or increasing the amount to match personal spice tolerance, ensuring a balanced flavor profile.
  • Use pre-cooked pasta or quick-cooking varieties to streamline preparation time and simplify the cooking process.
  • Select large, fresh shrimp for optimal texture and taste, ensuring they are deveined and properly cleaned before cooking.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter version, maintaining the creamy consistency while reducing calories.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 490 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 42 g
  • Cholesterol: 160 mg
Maya Thompson

Maya Thompson

Culinary Content Creator & Nutrition Enthusiast

Expertise

Healthy single-serving recipes, Meal prepping for individuals, Integrating nutrition into everyday cooking, Vegetarian and plant-based cuisine​

Education

The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College
Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
Focus: Nutrition, meal planning, and culinary techniques for healthy living.


Maya found her passion in the kitchen by mixing good food with good energy. After earning her culinary degree at The Chef’s Academy at Harrison College, she made it her mission to keep cooking simple, wholesome, and packed with flavor.
At Steelhead Diner, Maya shares easy, healthy recipes built for real life. For Maya, great food seems like a celebration of everyday moments, made better one fresh bite at a time.

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