Snack On Meat

You are here: Home / All RECIPES / Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

If you’re craving a dish that’s rich, creamy, and bursting with bold Cajun flavor, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is your answer. It combines juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and a velvety, Cajun-spiced sauce with pasta for a crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a dinner party centerpiece, this pasta dish is sure to impress.

Ingredients

Pasta:

  • 8 oz rotini pasta (or substitute with penne, bowtie, or your favorite short pasta)

Proteins:

  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced

Cajun Cream Sauce:

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

For Flavor & Garnish:

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • Fresh chopped parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving 1/2 cup of pasta water.
  2. Cook Chicken: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season diced chicken with 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
  3. Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Toss shrimp with remaining 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning. Cook 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
  4. Make Sauce: Melt remaining 1 tbsp butter in skillet. Add garlic and cook 1 minute. Stir in heavy cream and milk, whisking until smooth. Add Parmesan and cheddar cheeses; stir until melted and sauce is creamy.
  5. Season Sauce: Mix in smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Simmer 3-4 minutes to thicken slightly.
  6. Combine: Add pasta to the sauce and toss to coat. Return chicken and shrimp to the pan and stir to combine. Use reserved pasta water to thin sauce if needed.
  7. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, creamy flavors!

Cooking Tips

  • Don’t overcook shrimp: Remove from heat as soon as they turn pink.
  • Use freshly grated cheese: It melts better and creates a smoother sauce.
  • Adjust spice to taste: Customize the heat level with more or less red pepper flakes.
  • Reserve pasta water: Helps loosen the sauce without making it watery.

Substitutions & Variations

  • Swap chicken or shrimp with sausage, salmon, or tofu.
  • Use gluten-free pasta and check seasoning for a gluten-free dish.
  • Try different cheeses for unique flavor twists.

Storage

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of milk.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx. 4 servings)

  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Fat: 30g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 245mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Carbs: 35g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 40g

FAQs

Can I make it ahead? Yes! Cook proteins and sauce ahead; combine and reheat when ready.

Can I use different pasta? Definitely. Fettuccine, penne, or bowtie all work great.

Is it possible to make it healthier? Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, reduce cheese, and opt for whole wheat pasta.

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a comforting, flavor-packed dish that tastes like restaurant quality but is easy to make at home. Give it a try and make dinner a delicious celebration!