By This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta balances hearty flavor with a straightforward process, so you get a reliable, delicious result every time.
Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta captures the essence of meals|chicken while staying approachable for everyday cooking. The method focuses on maximizing flavor with minimal steps, using common pantry items and fresh ingredients. From the first bite you’ll notice a balance of texture and taste that feels both familiar and exciting. To build depth, we combine proper seasoning with simple techniques: gentle heat for aromatics, accurate measurements, and attention to doneness. Small details—like resting time or layering ingredients—make a noticeable difference in the final dish. This recipe is designed to be flexible. You can swap in seasonal produce, adjust spices to match your preferences, or adapt the base to suit dietary needs. The goal is to keep the spirit of the dish while letting you tailor it to your kitchen. Serving ideas are wide open: pair with a crisp salad, roasted vegetables, warm bread, or your favorite grains. Leftovers store well and often taste even better the next day as flavors settle. That makes the recipe suitable for meal prep and busy schedules. For best results, read the steps once before you start, assemble ingredients, and cook with confidence. Taste as you go, and don’t be afraid to adjust seasoning. With these principles, Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta becomes a reliable addition to your rotation—crowd-pleasing, practical, and full of flavor.
INGREDIENTS
8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta of choice)
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
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup milk
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp smoked paprika
1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
PREPARATION STEPS
1. Cook the Pasta:
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the rotini pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. Season the Chicken and Shrimp:
In a bowl, toss the diced chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated. In another bowl, season the shrimp with the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
5. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
Add the grated Parmesan cheese, shredded cheddar cheese, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and salt. Stir until the cheeses are melted and the sauce is smooth.
6. Combine Everything:
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the pasta is well coated with the creamy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
7. Serve:
Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta!
ORIGIN
Home-style cooking inspired by classic flavors and modern, reliable methods.
META INFOS
Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min | Servings: 4 | Calories: ~350 kcal | Difficulty: Easy
BENEFITS
Balanced flavor with approachable prep. Nutrition-friendly options and make-ahead friendly for busy schedules.
OCCASIONS
Weeknight dinners; Family gatherings; Potlucks; Holidays; Picnics; Meal prep
VARIATIONS
Swap seasonal produce; Adjust spices; Offer gluten-free or low-carb options where suitable; Try alternative proteins.
PAIRINGS
Green salad; Roasted vegetables; Rice or bread
STORAGE
Refrigerate in airtight container 2–4 days; freeze up to 2 months. Reheat gently to preserve texture.
TIPS
Measure accurately; Preheat pans/oven; Avoid overcooking; Taste and adjust seasoning; Rest before slicing when needed.
