Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a flavorful one-pan dish combining tender shrimp and juicy chicken breast with rotini pasta, all enveloped in a rich, cheesy Cajun-spiced cream sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that offers a spicy kick balanced by a smooth, satisfying sauce.
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 & Spices
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Fats & Oils
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
Dairy
- 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: Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Season the Proteins: In a bowl, toss the peeled shrimp and diced chicken breast with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and salt evenly to infuse the flavors.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken pieces and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: Using the same skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and add the shrimp. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in the skillet. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and milk, then add Parmesan and cheddar cheeses. Stir constantly over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until the sauce thickens and the cheese melts smoothly.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet with the creamy sauce. Add the cooked pasta and stir until everything is well coated in the sauce. Optionally, sprinkle red pepper flakes for added heat and mix well.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top and serve the creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta hot immediately for best flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute rotini with penne, fusilli, or any short pasta you prefer.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to control the spice level.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, though the sauce may be less rich.
- Ensure shrimp is peeled and deveined for the best texture and taste.
- Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
