Introduction
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is bold, spicy, and irresistibly creamy! Featuring juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and a rich Cajun-spiced sauce, this dish is packed with flavor and comfort. It’s the perfect restaurant-quality meal you can make at home in under 30 minutes! Whether for a cozy dinner or a special treat, this pasta is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
For the Pasta & Protein:
- 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta like penne or rigatoni) 🍝
- 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 🧄
For the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese 🧀
- ½ tsp smoked paprika (for extra flavor)
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice!)
- Salt & black pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Chopped fresh parsley 🌿
- Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce later.
2. Season & Cook the Chicken:
- In a bowl, toss the diced chicken with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning.
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden and cooked through.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter over medium heat.
- Toss the shrimp with the remaining 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning.
- Cook for 1–2 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
4. Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce:
- In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter and sauté the minced garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine.
- Add Parmesan cheese, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly (about 3 minutes).
- Taste and adjust with salt & black pepper as needed.
5. Combine Everything:
- Return the chicken and shrimp to the skillet, stirring to coat in the sauce.
- Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.
6. Serve & Garnish:
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
- Serve hot and enjoy this spicy, creamy, and flavorful Cajun pasta! 😍🔥
Tips for Success:
Want More Spice? Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning.
Prefer It Lighter? Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream to reduce richness.
Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Why You’ll Love It:
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a one-pan wonder with the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and bold flavors! It’s a restaurant-worthy dish that’s quick, easy, and absolutely delicious!