Creamy Cajun Mardi Gras Pasta with Shrimp and Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Mardi Gras Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the festive spirit of New Orleans. Combining tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and a creamy Cajun sauce, it’s a perfect meal to celebrate any occasion with bold Southern flair.
Ingredients
- 8 oz pasta of your choice
- 1/2 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 lb boneless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup cream sauce (such as Alfredo or a homemade white cream sauce)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Optional: chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp and chicken with Cajun seasoning.
- Step 3: Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Step 4: In the same skillet, cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Step 5: Lower the heat to medium and add the cream sauce to the skillet. Stir to warm through and combine with the pan flavors.
- Step 6: Toss the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp in the cream sauce until evenly coated and heated through.
- Step 7: Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Tips & Variations
- Use smoked sausage sliced thin as an alternative protein for a more traditional Cajun touch.
- Adjust the heat by adding extra Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the cream sauce.
- For a lighter version, substitute the cream sauce with a tomato-based sauce.
Storage
Store leftover Mardi Gras Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen shrimp for this recipe?
Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just thaw completely and pat dry before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
What type of pasta is best for Mardi Gras Pasta?
Fettuccine, penne, or linguine work great as they hold the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta shape.
PrintCreamy Cajun Mardi Gras Pasta with Shrimp and Chicken Recipe
Mardi Gras Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by the festive spirit of Louisiana’s Mardi Gras. This creamy Cajun pasta combines tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and a rich cream sauce seasoned with Cajun spices, delivering a perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and heartiness. A quick and satisfying meal that brings the bold flavors of New Orleans right to your table.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
Proteins
- 8 ounces shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 8 ounces boneless skinless chicken breast, diced
Sauce and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté the Proteins: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for about 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with chicken.
- Prepare the Cream Sauce: Lower heat to medium. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Add Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes until it starts to thicken.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat them in the cream sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together to combine well. If using, sprinkle Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and incorporated.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if desired for extra freshness and color.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it will be less creamy.
- Use fresh shrimp and chicken for best flavor and texture.
- To make this dish gluten free, use gluten-free pasta.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
Keywords: Mardi Gras Pasta, Cajun pasta, shrimp pasta, creamy pasta, chicken pasta, Cajun seasoning, Louisiana recipe
