Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish packed with smoky Cajun spices, tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this pasta delivers the perfect balance of spice and creaminess in every bite.
Ingredients
For the Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta of choice)
For the Protein
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
For the Sauce
- 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)
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the pasta until al dente, according to package instructions.
- Drain and set aside.
2️⃣ Season & Cook the Chicken
- Toss the diced chicken with 1 tbsp 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.
3️⃣ 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.
4️⃣ 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.
5️⃣ 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.
6️⃣ Serve
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve warm.
Notes
- 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.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun