Craving a restaurant-quality meal without the restaurant prices? Then look no further! This recipe recreates the beloved TGI Friday's Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta, bringing that fantastic flavor right to your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a fun weekend get-together. Get ready for a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more! This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguine pasta
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning (adjust to your spice preference)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and 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 linguine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside.
-
Sauté the Chicken: While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
-
Cook the Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
-
Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, whisk together the flour and Cajun seasoning. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until thickened.
-
Combine and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, parsley, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
-
Toss and Serve: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss to coat with the sauce. Serve immediately, garnished with Parmesan cheese (optional).
Tips and Variations:
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to your liking. For a milder dish, start with less and add more to taste. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Veggies: Add your favorite vegetables to this dish! Bell peppers, onions, or zucchini would be delicious additions. Sauté them with the chicken.
- Protein Swap: Substitute the chicken and shrimp with other proteins like sausage, andouille, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Creaminess: For a richer sauce, use a combination of heavy cream and milk.
- Cheese Please: Experiment with different cheeses. A sprinkle of mozzarella or a creamy goat cheese would be delightful additions.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings. Nutritional information is approximate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 500-600
- Protein: 30-40g
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
This TGI Friday's inspired Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta recipe is a fantastic example of delicious dishes you can easily create at home. It’s a perfect blend of quick dinner ideas and homemade cooking, resulting in a satisfying and flavorful meal. Enjoy!