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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

A mouthwatering dish featuring shrimp and chicken in a rich, creamy Cajun-infused sauce.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 680

Ingredients
  

Pasta Ingredients
  • 8 oz rotini pasta (or any short pasta of your choice)
Protein Ingredients
  • 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined Sweet, tender morsels of seafood
  • 1 lb chicken breast, diced Juicy and protein-packed poultry
Sauce Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning A blend of spices that brings warmth and depth
  • 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing
  • 2 tbsp unsalted butter Adds richness and creaminess
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic and flavorful
  • 1 cup heavy cream The secret to a luxurious sauce
  • 1 cup milk Balances the richness
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese For a nutty flavor
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese Melting perfectly into the sauce
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika Imparts subtle smokiness
  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for extra spice)
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped For garnish

Method
 

Cooking the Pasta
  1. Boil water in a large pot. Add the rotini pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Preparing the Chicken and Shrimp
  1. In a large bowl, combine peeled shrimp and diced chicken with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook until browned, about 6-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, melt butter, add minced garlic, and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Add shrimp and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Making the Creamy Sauce
  1. Reduce heat to medium and pour in heavy cream and milk. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Reduce to low heat and stir in cheeses, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes if using, and salt. Stir until cheese melts and sauce is smooth.
Combining Everything
  1. Return chicken and shrimp to the skillet, then add cooked pasta. Toss until evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
Serving
  1. Sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley before serving.

Notes

To elevate, let sauce simmer longer and consider adding sautéed bell peppers or onions. A splash of lemon juice can brighten the dish. Experiment with different cheeses for unique flavors.