Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
Step 1: Season and Cook the Chicken
1/ Season the Chicken: Place the sliced chicken breasts in a bowl. Sprinkle with 1/2 tbsp of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
2/ Cook the Chicken: In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Shrimp
1/ Season the Shrimp: Place the shrimp in a bowl and season with 1/2 tbsp of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat.
2/ Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add 1 tbsp of olive oil and 1 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside with the cooked chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Pasta
1/ Boil the Pasta: Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.
Step 4: Make the Alfredo Sauce
1/ Sauté Garlic: In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed and sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2/ Add Cream and Milk: Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
3/ Incorporate Parmesan: Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese, whisking continuously until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.
4/ Season the Sauce: Sprinkle in a pinch of smoked paprika and adjust with additional Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper if needed for a bolder flavor.
Step 5: Combine the Pasta, Chicken, and Shrimp
1/ Add Pasta to Sauce: Add the cooked fettuccine pasta to the skillet, gently tossing to coat the pasta in the Alfredo
2/ sauce.Incorporate Chicken and Shrimp: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet, mixing them into the pasta until everything is well coated with the sauce.
3/ Simmer: Allow the dish to simmer for 2-3 minutes to meld the flavors together.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
1/ Plate the Pasta: Divide the Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo onto plates.
2/ Garnish: Top with freshly chopped parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
Serving Suggestions for Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
This rich and flavorful pasta pairs wonderfully with sides that add freshness and balance to the meal:
1/ Garlic Bread – Ideal for soaking up any extra sauce.
2/ Mixed Green Salad – Adds a refreshing crunch and lightness.
3/ Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted asparagus or broccoli for a healthy, savory side
Tips for the Best Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
1/ Use Freshly Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly, so opt for freshly grated Parmesan for the best sauce consistency.
2/ Control the Heat Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to taste, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer extra heat.
3/ Don’t Overcook the Shrimp: Since shrimp cook quickly, keep an eye on them to prevent them from becoming rubbery.
4/ Reserve Pasta Water: The starch-rich water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without thinning the flavor.
5/ Use Heavy Cream for Extra Creaminess: While milk adds lightness, heavy cream is key to achieving a luscious, silky sauce.
Why Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a Crowd-Pleaser
This dish marries the creamy comfort of Alfredo pasta with the bold, zesty flavors of Cajun seasoning, creating a well-rounded meal that appeals to many palates. It’s the perfect combination of rich creaminess, hearty chicken, and tender shrimp, all tied together by a touch of spice. Whether it’s a special family dinner or a weeknight treat, Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a flavorful, satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen
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