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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta


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  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 Servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

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