Name: Creamy, 'Cajun' 'Shrimp & Chicken' Pasta: Delicious Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 12 oz. linguine or fettuccine pasta; 1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed; 2 tbsp. Cajun seasoning; 2 tbsp. olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tsp. lemon juice; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and black pepper to taste

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Introduction

Did you know that the average person consumes over 20 pounds of pasta per year? Yet, many home cooks struggle to create a pasta dish that’s both creamy and packed with bold Cajun flavors. Introducing our “Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Pasta” – a recipe that’s about to revolutionize your weeknight dinner routine.

Ingredients List

This recipe calls for a delightful mix of perfectly seasoned proteins, creamy sauce, and al dente pasta. Here’s what you’ll need:

12 oz. linguine or fettuccine pasta
1 lb. large shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
2 tbsp. Cajun seasoning
2 tbsp. olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tsp. lemon juice
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and black pepper to taste

Potential Substitutions:

For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free pasta.
Substitute the chicken with firm white fish, such as cod or tilapia.
Use a dairy-free or nut-based cream to make this recipe lactose-free.

Timing

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Pasta recipe takes approximately 45 minutes from start to finish, which is 10 minutes faster than the average pasta dish. The preparation time is 15 minutes, and the cooking time is 30 minutes.

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the linguine or fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.

Step 2: Season the Proteins

In a large bowl, toss the shrimp and chicken cubes with the Cajun seasoning until well coated.

Step 3: Sauté the Proteins

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and chicken and sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the proteins are cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the shrimp and chicken from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce

In the same skillet, sauté the onion for 2-3 minutes until translucent. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow the sauce to reduce for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.

Step 5: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Reduce the heat to low and stir the cooked pasta, shrimp, and chicken into the creamy Cajun sauce. Add the Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, and chopped parsley. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Pair it with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information

Serving Size: 1 cup
Servings Per Recipe: 6

Calories: 545
Total Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 215mg
Sodium: 1,275mg
Total Carbohydrates: 42g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Total Sugars: 3g
Protein: 41g

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

To make this Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Pasta healthier, you can:

Use whole-wheat or high-fiber pasta for added nutrients.
Substitute heavy cream with low-fat or non-fat Greek yogurt.
Reduce the amount of Parmesan cheese or use a lower-fat version.
Increase the proportion of vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms.
Serve the pasta with a side of roasted asparagus or a fresh tomato salad.

Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

Serve it over a bed of zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a low-carb option.
Top it with crispy bacon bits or fried onions for an extra crunch.
Pair it with a glass of crisp white wine or a light, refreshing beer.
Garnish the dish with fresh herbs, such as basil or chives, for a pop of color and flavor.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the pasta: Be sure to cook the pasta al dente, as it will continue to soften in the creamy sauce.
Using low-quality Cajun seasoning: Invest in a high-quality Cajun seasoning blend to ensure maximum flavor.
Failing to reduce the sauce: Taking the time to reduce the sauce will result in a thicker, creamier consistency.
Overcrowding the skillet: Cook the shrimp and chicken in batches to ensure even browning and prevent steaming.
Skimping on the Parmesan: The Parmesan cheese adds a necessary richness and depth of flavor to the dish.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

The Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Pasta is best enjoyed immediately, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or cream to achieve the desired consistency.

For maximum freshness, you can also prepare the components separately and assemble the dish just before serving. The cooked pasta can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, while the shrimp, chicken, and sauce can be kept for 3-4 days.

Conclusion

In just 45 minutes, you can treat your taste buds to a restaurant-quality Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Pasta right in your own kitchen. This dish is a delicious and versatile option that’s sure to become a family favorite. Be sure to try it and don’t forget to share your feedback in the comments below! If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to subscribe to our blog for more mouthwatering culinary creations.

FAQs

A: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time to make assembly easier on the day you want to serve the dish. The cooked pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, and the shrimp, chicken, and sauce can be kept for 3-4 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the components and combine them just before serving.

B: Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for linguine or fettuccine, you can use any long, thin pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, bucatini, or angel hair. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

C: How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make this Creamy Cajun Shrimp & Chicken Pasta gluten-free, simply substitute the regular pasta with a gluten-free variety, such as brown rice, quinoa, or corn-based pasta. You can also use zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash as a low-carb alternative.

D: Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! While the recipe calls for shrimp and chicken, you can substitute the proteins with other options, such as firm white fish (like cod or tilapia), scallops, or even sliced Italian sausage. Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the protein is cooked through.