Loaded Cajun Chicken Pasta

Loaded Cajun Chicken Pasta brings bold, spicy flavors and hearty ingredients together in a satisfying dish. With a mix of chicken, shrimp, and sausage, it’s a protein-packed meal that will please any crowd.

The creamy Cajun sauce, rich with parmesan and a hint of heat, perfectly complements the tender linguine or fettuccine. It’s an irresistible combination of flavors that delivers comfort and excitement in every bite.

Whether you’re craving something hearty or looking to impress, this dish has it all. Quick to make and bursting with flavor, Loaded Cajun Chicken Pasta is sure to become a new favorite.

Loaded Cajun Chicken Pasta Ingredients

The bold kick of Cajun seasoning forms the backbone of this dish, infusing each bite with a fiery, aromatic depth.

Succulent shrimp, tender chicken, and smoky andouille sausage combine to create a harmonious balance of protein, each adding its unique flavor to the rich, creamy sauce.

Linguine or fettuccine serves as the perfect base, holding the creamy sauce and meat ensemble in every twirl. Fresh vegetables, like onion and green pepper, offer a subtle sweetness and crunch, rounding out the dish with texture and brightness.

Recipe Tips

1. Adjust the Spice Level: The Cajun seasoning brings heat, but you can adjust the spice level by using more or less depending on your preference. If you like it mild, reduce the Cajun seasoning, or for extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
2. Searing the Meats: When cooking the shrimp, chicken, and sausage, make sure to give them enough space in the pan to sear properly. Overcrowding can lead to steaming instead of browning, which affects both texture and flavor. Cook them in batches if needed.
3. Creamy Sauce Consistency: For a thicker sauce, let it simmer a bit longer before adding the pasta. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to reach your desired consistency. Keep stirring to ensure it stays smooth and creamy.

What to Serve with Recipe

1. Garlic Bread: A warm, crusty garlic bread is the perfect side for Loaded Cajun Chicken Pasta. It complements the creamy sauce and adds a delightful crunch. The butter and garlic flavors elevate the meal, making each bite even more satisfying.
2. Side Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the pasta. Consider a mix of leafy greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light lemon or balsamic dressing. The acidity helps cut through the creaminess of the sauce.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Pair this pasta with grilled vegetables like asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers. The smoky, charred flavors add depth and contrast to the creamy, spicy pasta, creating a well-rounded and satisfying meal.

FAQ

1. Can I use different types of pasta?
   Yes! While linguine or fettuccine are ideal for this recipe, you can substitute them with any pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you use.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   This dish is best served fresh to maintain the creamy texture of the sauce, but you can prepare the meats and sauce in advance. Store them separately and combine with the pasta just before serving.
3. What can I substitute for andouille sausage?
   If you can’t find andouille sausage, you can substitute it with other types of smoked sausage or even chorizo. The goal is to have a smoky, flavorful sausage that will stand up to the bold Cajun seasoning.
4. Can I make this dish without cream?
   Yes, you can make a lighter version by substituting the heavy cream with half-and-half or even a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. The sauce will still be creamy, but with a slightly different texture and flavor.

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Loaded Cajun Chicken Pasta

Loaded Cajun Chicken Pasta offers a vibrant and spicy combination of flavors, featuring three types of meat: chicken, shrimp, and sausage. Paired with linguine and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is sure to satisfy every palate.

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Course Pasta, Side Dish

Cuisine American

Servings 5 People

Ingredients

  

• 1 pound linguine or fettuccine pasta
• 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
• 1 pound andouille sausage sliced thinly
• 4 tablespoons olive oil divided
• 1 medium yellow onion diced
• 1 green bell pepper seeded and diced
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese with extra for serving
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning divided
• 1 teaspoon salt divided
• 1 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper divided
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme
• Parsley for optional garnish

Instructions

 

• Begin by preparing the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside, keeping it warm.
• In a small bowl, combine one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning with half a teaspoon each of salt, pepper, and thyme. Season the chicken and shrimp evenly with this mixture.
• Heat a small amount of olive oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat. Add the shrimp to the pan, cooking each side for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they turn pink and curl. Remove from the pan immediately and set aside, keeping them warm.
• Add a little more oil to the pan and cook the chicken pieces until they are fully cooked through, approximately 7 minutes. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside with the shrimp.
• Place the sausage slices in the same pan, warming them and allowing them to brown slightly. Remove the sausage and set it aside with the other cooked meats.
• Pour the remaining olive oil into the pan and sauté the diced onion, bell pepper, and garlic for 3 to 4 minutes. Stir in one tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, half a teaspoon of salt, crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2 to 3 minutes.
• Remove the pan from the heat and stir in the Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
• Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat the noodles thoroughly. Then, return the shrimp, chicken, and sausage to the pan and combine everything evenly.
• Serve immediately, garnished with parsley and extra Parmesan if desired.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing: It is not recommended to freeze this dish, as the creamy sauce may separate during the thawing process.

Keyword Loaded Cajun Chicken Pasta