Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

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Introduction

Get ready to spice up your dinner with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta—a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and creamy comfort! Juicy shrimp and tender chicken are tossed with rotini in a rich, cheesy Cajun sauce that’s smoky, garlicky, and just the right amount of spicy. The Parmesan and cheddar blend makes it irresistibly velvety, while the fresh parsley adds a pop of brightness. I love how this comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight treat or a fun gathering with friends. If you’re craving a hearty, Southern-inspired pasta with a kick, this is your new go-to. Let’s dive in and whip up this creamy, Cajun masterpiece!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this flavorful pasta dish:

  • 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta) – Twirly noodles to catch the creamy sauce.
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined – Sweet, succulent seafood star.
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced – Tender, hearty protein for balance.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning – Bold, spicy blend for that Southern kick.
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the chicken and shrimp.
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – Rich base for the sauce.
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic foundation for flavor.
  • 1 cup heavy cream – Velvety smoothness for the sauce.
  • 1 cup milk – Lightens the sauce while keeping it creamy.
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Nutty, cheesy depth.
  • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese – Sharp, melty richness.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Smoky warmth to enhance the Cajun vibe.
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – Extra heat for spice lovers.
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste) – Seasons everything perfectly.
  • Fresh parsley, chopped – Bright, herby garnish.

Gather these ingredients, and you’re set for a creamy, spicy feast!

Prep Time & Cook Time

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes – Boiling pasta and prepping ingredients.
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes – Cooking proteins and making sauce.
  • Total Time: 35 minutes – A bold dish in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s make this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta with ease—here’s how:

  1. Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, about 8-10 minutes. Drain, reserving ½ cup pasta water, and set aside.
  2. Season the Proteins: In a bowl, toss the shrimp and diced chicken with 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning to coat evenly.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp of 165°F/74°C). Remove to a plate and set aside.
  4. Cook the Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque (internal temp of 145°F/63°C). Remove to the plate with the chicken.
  5. Make the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium-low. Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring to avoid burning. Pour in 1 cup heavy cream and 1 cup milk, then stir in ½ cup grated Parmesan, ½ cup shredded cheddar, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and the remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning. Stir until the cheeses melt and the sauce is smooth and creamy, about 3-4 minutes.
  6. Combine Everything: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water. Adjust seasoning with ½ teaspoon salt and optional ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes for extra heat.
  7. Serve: Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Dig in and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!

Tips & Tricks

Make this pasta even better with these handy pointers:

  • Spice Control: Reduce Cajun seasoning to 1½ tablespoons or skip the red pepper flakes for a milder flavor. For more heat, add a dash of hot sauce.
  • Pasta Swap: Try penne, farfalle, or fusilli—any short pasta works great with the sauce.
  • Cheese Tip: Grate your own Parmesan for smoother melting; pre-grated can make the sauce grainy.
  • Veggie Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, onions, or spinach with the garlic for extra color and nutrition.
  • Time Saver: Use pre-cooked shrimp or rotisserie chicken to cut prep time—just toss with Cajun seasoning and heat through.

Serving Suggestions

This pasta is a hearty meal, but these sides make it a feast:

  • Garlic Bread: Crusty, buttery bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
  • Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine with a tangy dressing for balance.
  • Sautéed Green Beans: A fresh, green side to complement the richness.
  • White Wine: A chilled Pinot Grigio to pair with the creamy, spicy flavors.

Storage & Reheating

Here’s how to enjoy this pasta later (if there’s any left!):

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk, stirring gently, for 5-7 minutes. Or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot—skillet keeps the sauce creamier.
  • Freezing: Freeze in a sealed container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat—the sauce may separate slightly but will recombine with stirring.

Nutrition Info

This pasta is indulgent and satisfying! Here’s an approximate breakdown per serving (based on 4 servings):

  • Calories: 580 kcal
  • Protein: 38g – From the shrimp, chicken, and cheese.
  • Fat: 34g (Saturated Fat: 18g) – From the cream, cheese, and butter.
  • Carbohydrates: 34g – Mostly from the pasta.
  • Fiber: 2g – A bit from the pasta.
  • Sugar: 4g – Naturally occurring in the milk and cream.
  • Sodium: 950mg – Varies with Cajun seasoning, cheese, and salt; adjust to taste.

Note: Values are estimates and depend on specific brands or portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a bold, comforting dish that brings the heat and heart of Cajun cuisine to your table. The creamy, cheesy sauce, tender shrimp, and juicy chicken make it a perfect balance of indulgence and spice—ideal for cozy nights or impressing a crowd. It’s quick, versatile, and so satisfying, you’ll want to keep it in your dinner rotation. Give it a try, and let me know how it turns out—or if you add your own spicy twist! Happy cooking!