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Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta – Creamy & Spicy Dinner Recipe


  • Author: kylie
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and creamy, cheesy pasta. The perfect balance of spice and creaminess makes this meal a crowd-pleaser. If you love comfort food with a kick, this pasta dish will quickly become a favorite.


Ingredients

Scale

Pasta and Protein:

  • 8 oz (225 g) rotini pasta (or any short pasta of choice)
  • 1 lb (450 g) shrimp (peeled and deveined)
  • 1 lb (450 g) chicken breast (diced)

Seasonings and Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1 cup (240 ml) milk
  • ½ cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup (50 g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
  • ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)


Instructions

1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  2. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.
  3. Drain and set aside.

2: Season and Cook the Chicken

  1. In a large bowl, toss the diced chicken with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  3. Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fully cooked and browned.
  4. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

3: Cook the Shrimp

  1. In the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat.
  2. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
  3. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
  4. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

4: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

  1. Reduce the heat to medium-low and melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter.
  2. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
  3. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring well.
  4. Add the Parmesan cheese, cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, and salt.
  5. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens slightly, about 3-4 minutes.

5: Combine Everything

  1. Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet.
  2. Add the drained pasta and toss everything together, ensuring it’s evenly coated in the sauce.
  3. Simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

6: Garnish and Serve

  1. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley.
  2. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  • Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on spice preference.
  • Use fresh shrimp and high-quality Parmesan for the best flavor.
  • Cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming too soft.

 

  • For a richer sauce, replace half the milk with more heavy cream.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 650 kcal
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 18g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 45 g
  • Cholesterol: 250mg

Keywords: Cajun shrimp pasta, creamy shrimp pasta, chicken and shrimp pasta, spicy pasta recipe, easy Cajun pasta