Description
Blackened Chicken and Shrimp Pasta
This flavorful and hearty dish features perfectly blackened chicken, succulent shrimp, and creamy pasta – all topped with fresh herbs. It’s a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for dinner any night of the week!
Ingredients:
For the Blackened Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon thyme
1/2 teaspoon oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Shrimp:
1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
For the Pasta:
8 oz penne pasta
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)
For the Asparagus:
1 bunch fresh asparagus (trimmed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture over the chicken breasts. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and blackened on the outside. Remove from heat and let the chicken rest before slicing into strips.
Cook the Shrimp: Season the shrimp with paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Make the Cream Sauce: In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the garlic powder and red pepper flakes (if using), cooking for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Asparagus: While the pasta is cooking, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in another skillet over medium heat. Sauté the asparagus for 4-5 minutes until tender, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble the Dish: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the creamy sauce and toss to coat. Arrange the sliced chicken, shrimp, and asparagus on top. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
This Blackened Chicken and Shrimp Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish that combines a smoky, spicy kick with the richness of the cream sauce. It’s a showstopper for any occasion!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed sequence for a seamless cooking experience. First, prepare all ingredients: measure spices, trim asparagus, and pat shrimp dry. Begin by boiling water for the pasta, salting it generously. While it heats, season and cook the chicken as instructed. Once the chicken rests, use the same skillet for the shrimp to build flavor. Remove the shrimp and immediately start the cream sauce in that same pan. While the sauce simmers, sauté the asparagus in a separate pan. Finally, drain the cooked pasta and combine it with the sauce before assembling all components on a platter or in individual bowls.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this pasta immediately while hot and creamy. For a restaurant-style presentation, twirl the pasta into the center of a wide, shallow bowl and artfully arrange the chicken strips, shrimp, and asparagus on top. A final sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley and a light dusting of Parmesan adds visual appeal. This rich dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess, or with a crusty baguette to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.
How-to Summary
To make Blackened Chicken and Shrimp Pasta: Season and pan-sear chicken breasts until blackened. Cook seasoned shrimp in the same skillet. Boil penne pasta. Create a creamy Parmesan sauce in the skillet used for the proteins. Sauté asparagus separately. Combine the pasta with the sauce, then top with sliced chicken, shrimp, and asparagus. Garnish and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pasta shape? Absolutely. Fettuccine, linguine, or rigatoni work well. Choose a shape that holds the creamy sauce effectively.
How can I make this dish less spicy? Omit the cayenne pepper from the shrimp and the crushed red pepper flakes from the cream sauce. The blackening spices will provide flavor without intense heat.
Can I prepare components ahead of time? You can season the chicken and shrimp ahead and trim the asparagus. However, for best texture, cook everything just before serving, as the cream sauce can thicken upon standing.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers? Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a small splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating may cause the sauce to separate.
Can I use frozen shrimp? Yes, ensure they are fully thawed, peeled, and deveined. Pat them very dry with paper towels before seasoning to ensure a good sear.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Crowding the Skillet: Cook the chicken and shrimp in batches if necessary. Overcrowding steams the food instead of creating a proper blackened crust.
- Overcooking the Shrimp: Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if left on the heat too long. Remove them as soon as they turn pink and opaque.
- Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: For a smoother sauce, grate a block of Parmesan cheese yourself. Pre-grated cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can make the sauce grainy.
- Not Tasting the Sauce: Always taste and adjust the seasoning of your cream sauce at the end, as the cheese and blackening spices contribute saltiness.
Conclusion
This Blackened Chicken and Shrimp Pasta is a masterful combination of bold, smoky flavors and luxurious creaminess. By following the step-by-step guide and heeding the common pitfalls, you can consistently create an impressive and satisfying meal that feels special enough for guests yet straightforward enough for a weeknight. The balance of protein, pasta, and vegetables makes it a complete, comforting dish that is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.