Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta from TGI Friday's features perfectly seasoned, tender shrimp and grilled chicken tossed with penne pasta in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan for a flavorful, colorful dish.
Equipments
- Large pot
- Colander
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Tongs
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Grater (for Parmesan)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl
- Plate (for resting shrimp/chicken)
Ingredients
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta
- 1 lb (450g) large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 small red onion
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- Salt
- Black pepper
When preparing Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta, ensure the shrimp is peeled and deveined for a better texture and flavor. Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts to achieve even cooking and tenderness. Fresh bell peppers and garlic enhance the dish's aroma and nutritional value, while low-sodium chicken broth keeps the sauce balanced without excess salt. Measuring spices like Cajun seasoning accurately helps maintain the right level of heat and seasoning. You'll enjoy the rich, creamy, and spicy flavors of this copycat TGI Friday's dish when all these ingredients come together perfectly.
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook penne pasta until al dente; drain in a colander and set aside.
- Pat shrimp and chicken breasts dry with paper towels.
- Season shrimp and chicken with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken breasts; cook until golden and cooked through (about 6-8 minutes per side).
- Remove chicken, rest for a few minutes, then slice thinly.
- Add another 1 tablespoon olive oil to the skillet.
- Add shrimp; cook until pink and opaque (2-3 minutes per side).
- Remove shrimp to a plate.
- Melt 1 tablespoon butter in the same skillet.
- Add diced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, and red onion; sauté until softened (about 4 minutes).
- Add minced garlic; sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
- Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth; bring to a simmer.
- Reduce heat; let sauce thicken for 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add cooked penne pasta to the skillet; toss to coat in sauce.
- Add sliced cooked chicken and shrimp; stir to combine and heat through.
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper if needed.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta from TGI Friday's copycat menu combines tender shrimp and grilled chicken with penne pasta in a creamy, spicy Cajun sauce for a rich, flavorful experience. You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of cornstarch to reduce fat while maintaining creaminess. If fresh parsley is unavailable, dried parsley or fresh cilantro can provide a similar fresh garnish. For spice adjustment, reduce Cajun seasoning to suit milder tastes or add extra for more heat. When prepping shrimp and chicken, make sure to pat them dry for better searing and more robust flavor in the skillet.
Tips
Make sure to pat the shrimp and chicken dry before seasoning to ensure they sear properly and develop a golden crust. When cooking chicken breasts, let them rest on a plate for a few minutes after cooking to retain juices and keep the meat tender before slicing. Use medium-high heat for sauteing vegetables to soften them without losing their vibrant color and crunch. To achieve the perfect creamy texture, allow the sauce to simmer until slightly thickened before adding Parmesan cheese for a smooth, rich sauce that clings to your penne pasta.
Nutritions
Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta delivers about 650-700 calories per serving, primarily from protein-rich shrimp and chicken combined with creamy heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The dish provides a substantial amount of protein, approximately 45-50 grams, supporting muscle repair and satiety. Vitamins and antioxidants come from the bell peppers and fresh parsley, while the olive oil adds heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. You can enjoy this flavorful meal while fueling your body with balanced nutrients, though moderating portion size helps manage calorie intake.
Storage
Store leftover Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of cooking to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. Consume your stored pasta within 3 to 4 days, reheating it gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking the shrimp and chicken. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months, thawing in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Variation or Alternatives
For a different protein profile, you can substitute the shrimp with scallops or crab meat while keeping the grilled chicken for a surf-and-turf twist. Swap penne pasta for fettuccine or linguine to vary the texture and presentation of your dish. Instead of heavy cream, use half-and-half or coconut milk to reduce richness while maintaining creaminess. You might also toss in smoked paprika or chipotle powder to elevate smokiness and depth in the Cajun sauce, enhancing your flavor experience.
Allergies
Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta contains common allergens such as shellfish from the shrimp and dairy from the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. If you have a seafood allergy or lactose intolerance, consuming this dish could trigger adverse reactions. Always inform the restaurant of your allergies to ensure your meal is prepared safely.
Why this recipe?
TGI Friday's Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta combines tender shrimp and chicken infused with bold Cajun spices, delivered in a creamy, flavorful sauce over perfectly cooked pasta. The dish balances savory heat with a rich, comforting texture that appeals to a wide range of palates. Your taste buds will appreciate its authentic Southern-inspired seasoning, creating a satisfying meal experience. Making a copycat version lets you customize ingredients and spice levels while enjoying the restaurant-quality flavor right at home.