Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish brings together tender shrimp and chicken with a luscious creamy Cajun sauce, making every bite irresistible. The combination of Cajun seasoning with garlic, smoked paprika, and a kick of red pepper flakes adds the perfect amount of spice to balance the creamy richness. Plus, it’s quick to make – ready in under 30 minutes – so it’s ideal for busy nights when you want something delicious and satisfying without the long prep time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

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:

• Fresh parsley, chopped

Directions

1. Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the rotini pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Shrimp: In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and Cajun seasoning. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside. In the same pan, add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
3. Make the Sauce: In the same pan, add the butter and minced garlic. Sauté for about 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, chicken broth, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Let the sauce cook for 3-4 minutes until it thickens slightly.
4. Combine and Finish: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes (if using). Add the cooked chicken, shrimp, and pasta to the pan. Toss everything together to coat in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish and Serve: Serve the pasta with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and additional Parmesan, if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the shrimp and chicken, and instead add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms.
• Add Extra Spice: For more heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or use a spicier Cajun seasoning.
• Swap the Pasta: If rotini isn’t your favorite, you can use penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti for this dish.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the pasta on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s creamy texture. You can also reheat it in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

How do I make the sauce thicker?

You can allow the sauce to simmer for a bit longer, or add an extra ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese to thicken it.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any short pasta like penne, fusilli, or farfalle in place of rotini.

Is the red pepper flakes necessary?

The red pepper flakes are optional, but they do add an extra layer of spice to the dish. Feel free to leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the sauce and proteins in advance and store them separately. When ready to serve, simply reheat and combine.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add more heat, increase the Cajun seasoning or add extra red pepper flakes and a dash of hot sauce.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, frozen shrimp works well. Just make sure to thaw it thoroughly before cooking.

What other proteins can I add?

You can substitute the chicken with turkey or even add sausage for a different twist.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or even coconut cream as a lighter alternative to heavy cream.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It’s not gluten-free as written, but you can substitute gluten-free pasta to make it gluten-free.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, store-bought Cajun seasoning works just fine for this recipe.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is the perfect balance of bold flavors and creamy goodness, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion. It’s quick, flavorful, and comforting, with just the right amount of spice. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or impressing guests, this dish will definitely satisfy your craving for something hearty and delicious. Enjoy it with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal!

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