Name: Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta of choice); 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined; 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup heavy cream; 1 cup milk; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice); 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste); Fresh parsley, chopped

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich and creamy – The combination of heavy cream, milk, and cheese creates a luxuriously smooth sauce.
Spicy and flavorful – Cajun seasoning and smoked paprika add a bold, smoky kick.
Protein-packed – Loaded with shrimp and chicken for a hearty meal.
Quick and easy – Ready in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
Customizable – Adjust the spice level and cheese blend to your preference.

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta of choice)
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
1 lb chicken breast, diced
2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoon unsalted butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Cook the pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta until al dente, according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
Season and cook the chicken
- Toss the diced chicken with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Cook the shrimp
- In the same skillet, melt the butter.
- Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.
Prepare the sauce
- Lower the heat to medium-low and add the minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the heavy cream, milk, Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, and the remaining Cajun seasoning.
- Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Combine everything
- Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet.
- Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and red pepper flakes, if desired.
Serve
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Calories: 580 kcal per serving

Variations

Make it spicier – Increase the Cajun seasoning or add extra red pepper flakes.
Use a different protein – Swap shrimp and chicken for sausage, salmon, or tofu.
Add veggies – Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Lighter option – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and opt for whole-wheat pasta.
Extra cheesy – Add more Parmesan or replace cheddar with mozzarella for a stretchier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate.
Reheating: Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce. Microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end to avoid overcooking.

What type of pasta works best?

Rotini, penne, or fettuccine work well for holding onto the creamy sauce.

Can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the Cajun seasoning and omit the red pepper flakes.

What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?

Make your own with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but the sauce will be less rich. You can thicken it with a bit of cornstarch.

How do I prevent the sauce from being too thick?

If the sauce thickens too much, stir in extra milk or broth until desired consistency is reached.

Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Try Monterey Jack, Gouda, or mozzarella for a different flavor.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Store the sauce separately and combine before serving.

What side dishes go well with this pasta?

Garlic bread, a fresh salad, or roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that brings bold Cajun spices and creamy cheese together in a satisfying meal. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s easy to make, completely customizable, and sure to be a hit with everyone at the table. Enjoy this restaurant-quality dish at home with minimal effort!