Creamy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta: A Flavorful Fusion
Indulge in the luxurious blend of succulent shrimp, tender chicken, and creamy pasta with our mouthwatering recipe for Chicken and Shrimp Pasta. This dish is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the richness of heavy cream with the zesty kick of Cajun seasoning. Perfect for a cozy night in or a special dinner party, this recipe is guaranteed to impress even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 2 Tbsp cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese, plus more to serve
- 2 Tbsp parsley to garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Season the Shrimp: In a mixing bowl, toss the peeled and deveined shrimp with olive oil and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Sauté the Shrimp: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned shrimp. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are pink and cooked through. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Prepare the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Add the Cream: Pour the heavy whipping cream into the skillet and stir well to combine with the garlic and tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Finish the Sauce: Gradually sprinkle in the grated parmesan cheese, stirring constantly, until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Season with the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, adjusting to taste.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked penne pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce, tossing gently to coat the pasta evenly.
- Add the Shrimp: Gently fold the cooked shrimp into the pasta and sauce mixture, being careful not to break the shrimp.
- Garnish and Serve: Transfer the Chicken and Shrimp Pasta to serving plates, garnishing with chopped parsley and additional grated parmesan cheese if desired.
Cook’s Notes:
- To enhance the flavor profile of the dish, you can add additional ingredients such as sliced mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach to the sauce.
- For a lighter version of the dish, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy whipping cream, though the sauce will be less rich and creamy.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken and Shrimp Pasta: Increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for an extra kick of heat.
- Seafood Medley Pasta: Substitute some or all of the shrimp with other seafood such as scallops, crab meat, or mussels for a delightful seafood pasta medley.
Keto Version:
For a keto-friendly version of Chicken and Shrimp Pasta, you can substitute the penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles. Additionally, use a lower-carb alternative to diced tomatoes, such as cherry tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes, to reduce the carbohydrate content of the dish.
Low-Carb Version:
To make a low-carb version of this dish, simply omit the pasta altogether and serve the creamy chicken and shrimp sauce over steamed vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, or zucchini noodles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use frozen shrimp instead of fresh shrimp? A: Yes, you can. Thaw the frozen shrimp thoroughly before using them in the recipe, and be sure to pat them dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture before seasoning and cooking.
Q: How do I prevent the shrimp from becoming rubbery? A: To ensure tender and succulent shrimp, avoid overcooking them. Cook the shrimp just until they turn pink and opaque, which typically takes 2-3 minutes per side depending on their size.
Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare the creamy sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to thin it out.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Absolutely! Feel free to substitute penne pasta with your favorite pasta shape such as fettuccine, spaghetti, or bowtie pasta, adjusting the cooking time accordingly.
Q: How do I store leftovers? A: Store any leftover Chicken and Shrimp Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through before serving.
Dive into a world of flavor with our irresistible Chicken and Shrimp Pasta recipe. With its creamy sauce, tender shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is a true crowd-pleaser that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or entertaining guests, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. Get ready to elevate your pasta game and savor every delicious bite!
