Chicken and Shrimp Recipe: How to Make Cajun Magic

chicken and shrimp in sauce served with rice, lime wedge, and parsley garnish

Prep Time 30 mins

Cook Time 30 mins

Total Time 1 hr

Cooking Method: Sauteing

Cuisine: American

Courses: Dinner, Lunch

Difficulty: Intermediate

Servings: 4

Estimated Cost: $ 25

Calories: 450 kcal

Best Season: Summer

Description

A harmonious blend of succulent chicken and shrimp, dancing in the bold, fiery flavors of Cajun spices. Quick to prepare, yet packed with complexity.

Ingredients

For the Cajun Spice Mix

2 tablespoons paprika (Preferably smoked for a deeper flavor.)
1 tablespoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon onion powder
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (Adjust according to your spice preference.)
1 teaspoon black pepper (Freshly ground for best results.)
1 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon salt (Kosher or sea salt recommended.)

For the Chicken and Shrimp

2 pounds chicken breast (Boneless and skinless, cut into bite-sized pieces.)
1 pound shrimp (Peeled and deveined, tail-on optional.)
3 tablespoons olive oil (For cooking.)
1 large onion (Diced.)
1 large bell pepper (Diced, any color.)
3 cloves garlic (Minced.)
1 cup chicken broth (Low sodium preferred.)
1 cup heavy cream (For a rich and creamy texture.)
1/4 cup parsley (Fresh, chopped for garnish.)
1 tablespoon lemon juice (Freshly squeezed, to brighten the dish.)

Instructions

Preparing the Ingredients

1
Gather Your IngredientsEnsure you have fresh chicken breasts and shrimp, preferably wild-caught for the best flavor. Prepare the holy trinity of Cajun cuisine: onions, bell peppers, and celery, all finely diced.
Using fresh ingredients elevates the dish, while pre-diced vegetables can save time in a pinch.
2
Marinating the Chicken and ShrimpIn a large bowl, combine the chicken and shrimp with a generous sprinkle of Cajun seasoning mix. Add a splash of olive oil and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Toss until everything is evenly coated.
Allow the proteins to marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse them with rich, spicy flavors.

Cooking the Cajun Magic

3
Sauté the VegetablesIn a heavy-bottomed skillet, heat a tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the diced onions, bell peppers, and celery. Sauté until they become tender and aromatic.
Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from burning and ensure even cooking.
4
Cook the ChickenAdd the marinated chicken pieces to the skillet with the vegetables. Cook until the chicken is golden brown on all sides and cooked through.
To check for doneness, slice one of the larger pieces in half; it should be white all the way through.
5
Add the ShrimpIntroduce the shrimp to the skillet, nestling them among the chicken and vegetables. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
Shrimp cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

Final Touches

6
Create the SaucePour in half a cup of chicken broth and a splash of cream to the skillet. Stir to combine, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
For a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch more Cajun seasoning.
7
Garnish and ServeFinish with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley and a few lemon wedges on the side. Serve hot, with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
The vibrant parsley adds a fresh pop of color and flavor, complementing the dish beautifully.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 4

Amount Per Serving
Calories 745.52kcal

% Daily Value *
Total Fat 39.72g62%
Saturated Fat 16.85g85%
Trans Fat 0.75g
Cholesterol 417.16mg140%
Sodium 932.62mg39%
Potassium 1509.03mg44%
Total Carbohydrate 18.06g7%
Dietary Fiber 4.37g18%
Sugars 6.76g
Protein 79.49g159%

Vitamin A 440.82 IU
Vitamin C 64.18 mg
Calcium 192.96 mg
Iron 4.43 mg
Vitamin D 0.95 IU
Vitamin E 5.32 IU
Vitamin K 92.38 mcg
Thiamin 0.33 mg
Riboflavin 0.67 mg
Niacin 23.75 mg
Vitamin B6 2.24 mg
Folate 66.5 mcg
Vitamin B12 0.57 mcg
Phosphorus 836.17 mg
Magnesium 136.95 mg
Zinc 3.9 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

For the chicken, select boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for tenderness. Slice them into thin, even strips to ensure quick and uniform cooking. Season generously with Cajun spices—think paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, and oregano for a robust, smoky heat.

For the shrimp, opt for large, deveined ones, tails on for a touch of flair. Pat them dry to ensure a good sear. Coat with olive oil and the same Cajun spice blend to harmonize flavors across proteins.

Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. A cast-iron pan works wonders here for its even heat distribution and ability to create a flavorful crust on both chicken and shrimp. Add a dash of oil and allow it to shimmer before laying down the chicken strips. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 4-6 minutes per side, depending on thickness. Remove and set aside.

In the same pan, add a bit more oil if necessary, then introduce the shrimp. Sear them until they turn opaque and sport a lovely caramelized exterior, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.

Deglaze the pan with a splash of chicken broth or white wine, scraping up any browned bits to infuse back into the dish. Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness and a knob of butter for richness, creating a silky sauce that envelops the chicken and shrimp.

Consider serving with a side of creamy polenta or over a bed of herbed rice to capture every drop of the luscious sauce. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.

Remember, balance is key—adjust the spice level to your taste, adding more cayenne for heat or extra herbs for earthiness. Embrace the playful yet refined spirit of Cajun cuisine, where bold flavors meet comfort.

Keywords: Cajun, chicken, shrimp, spicy, seafood

A Culinary Journey Awaits

Creating this Cajun Magic recipe is not just about assembling ingredients; it's an invitation to embark on a culinary journey that dances across your taste buds with robust flavors and a hint of spice. Each bite offers a delightful symphony of tender chicken and succulent shrimp, harmonized by the warmth of Cajun spices. This dish is a testament to the vibrant spirit of Cajun cuisine—a joyous celebration that brings people together around the table.

Memories and Moments

This recipe has graced many tables, each time leaving behind fond memories of laughter and lively conversation. I fondly recall a night when I prepared this dish for a dear friend who was skeptical of spicy foods. With each bite, I watched as skepticism turned into delight, and by the end of the meal, they were a true convert to the joys of Cajun cuisine.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

For the perfect accompaniment, serve this dish over a bed of fluffy rice or alongside a crusty loaf of French bread to soak up every last drop of the luscious sauce. A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette can offer a refreshing contrast to the dish's rich flavors.

Creative Variations and Storage Tips

Feel free to experiment by adding your own twist—perhaps a splash of white wine for extra depth, or a sprinkle of fresh herbs for brightness. Leftovers, though rare with this crowd-pleaser, can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. They make for a quick and satisfying lunch when served atop a fresh salad.

Read it online: https://www.resoluterecipes.com/recipe/chicken-and-shrimp-recipe/