Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta 🍤🍗🍝

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a bold, flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and perfectly cooked pasta in a rich, creamy sauce infused with Cajun spices. It’s quick, easy, and packed with zesty, smoky flavors that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Louisiana. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Let’s dive into how to make this delicious Cajun-inspired pasta step by step.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Flavor-Packed : The Cajun seasoning adds a spicy, smoky kick that’s balanced by the creamy sauce.
2. Protein-Packed : Combines both shrimp and chicken for a hearty, satisfying meal.
3. Quick & Easy : Ready in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy nights.
4. Customizable : Adjust spice levels or add veggies like bell peppers or spinach.
5. One-Pot Wonder : Minimal cleanup with most of the cooking done in one pan.

Ingredients

(Serves 4–6)

For the Pasta:

• 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta of choice ) 🍝
• 1 lb shrimp , peeled and deveined 🦐
• 1 lb chicken breast , diced into bite-sized pieces 🍗
• 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste ) 🌶️
• 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter 🧈
• 3 cloves garlic , minced ✂️

For the Creamy Sauce:

• 1 cup heavy cream 🥛
• 1 cup chicken broth 🍲
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese 🧀
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth )
• Salt and black pepper , to taste 🧂⚫

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 red bell pepper , sliced 🌶️
• 1 cup spinach or kale , chopped 🥬
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley , for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
   • Tip : Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water in case you need to loosen the sauce later.

Step 2: Season and Sear the Chicken

1. Pat the diced chicken breast dry with paper towels and season generously with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning .
2. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat .
3. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes , stirring occasionally, until golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

1. In the same skillet, melt another 1 tablespoon butter . Add the shrimp , season with the remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning , and cook for 2–3 minutes per side , or until pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

1. In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds , or until fragrant.
2. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth , stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it.
4. Season the sauce with smoked paprika , salt , and black pepper to taste.

Step 5: Combine Everything

1. Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Stir to coat them evenly.
2. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
   • Optional : Add sliced bell peppers or spinach during this step and cook until softened.

Step 6: Serve

1. Divide the pasta among serving plates or bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
3. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!

Tips for Success

1. Adjust Spice Levels : Use mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount if you prefer less heat.
2. Add Veggies : Bell peppers, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes make great additions for extra flavor and nutrition.
3. Use Fresh Shrimp : Fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp ensures the best texture and flavor.
4. Make Ahead : Prepare the sauce and proteins ahead of time, then reheat and combine with freshly cooked pasta before serving.
5. Freeze for Later : Freeze portions of the sauce and proteins (without pasta) for up to 3 months . Thaw and reheat, adding freshly cooked pasta before serving.

Perfect Pairings

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with:

• Garlic Bread : Serve with warm garlic bread or breadsticks for soaking up the sauce.
• Side Salad : Pair with a crisp Caesar salad or mixed greens for balance.
• Sparkling Beverages : Pair with sparkling water, lemonade, or a glass of white wine for refreshment.
• Roasted Vegetables : Serve with roasted asparagus, broccoli, or green beans for added nutrients.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx.)

(Based on 6 servings, without optional add-ins)

• Calories : ~450 kcal
• Protein : ~30g
• Carbohydrates : ~30g
• Fat : ~25g
• Fiber : ~2g

Note: Nutritional values may vary based on specific brands and portion sizes.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a vibrant, flavorful dish that brings the bold, zesty flavors of Cajun cuisine to your dinner table. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal, a dish to impress guests, or a way to spice up your pasta routine, this recipe delivers on all fronts. The combination of tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and creamy sauce creates a dish that’s as indulgent as it is satisfying.

The best part? It’s endlessly customizable, so you can tweak the spice levels, add veggies, or pair it with different sides to make it your own. So grab your skillet, whip up that sauce, and get ready to enjoy a dish that’s as fun to make as it is to eat.