Description
Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a spicy and comforting dish featuring tender chicken and succulent shrimp tossed with rotini pasta in a rich, cheesy Cajun cream sauce. This vibrant and flavorful recipe combines the zest of Cajun seasoning with creamy textures, making it a perfect dinner for those who love a little heat balanced with indulgence.
Ingredients
Scale
Pasta
- 8 oz rotini pasta or any short pasta of choice
Protein
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
Seasonings and Oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Dairy and 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
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water for later use.
- Season and Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the diced chicken breast with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp unsalted butter over medium heat. Toss the shrimp with the remaining 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning and add to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
- Prepare the Cajun Cream Sauce: Add the remaining 1 tbsp butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat. Sauté minced garlic for 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and milk, whisking to combine. Gradually add Parmesan and cheddar cheeses, whisking until melted and the sauce is smooth.
- Add Flavor to the Sauce: Stir in smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Simmer the sauce for 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
- Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with the sauce. Stir in cooked chicken and shrimp, ensuring even distribution. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to reach desired consistency.
- Garnish and Serve: Plate the pasta and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately to enjoy a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory flavors.
Notes
- For extra spice, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.
- You can substitute rotini with penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you prefer.
- Make sure not to overcook shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Adjust salt according to your preference and the saltiness of the cheese used.
- Reserve pasta water is helpful to thin out the sauce without diluting the flavor.
- Use fresh parsley to add a bright, fresh finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Keywords: Cajun pasta, creamy shrimp pasta, chicken and shrimp pasta, spicy pasta recipe, Cajun seasoning, comfort food, creamy Cajun sauce
