Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful dish packed with bold Cajun spices, juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and a creamy, cheesy sauce. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that comes together in under an hour, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
For the Protein:
1/2 lb (225g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
1/2 lb (225g) chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp Cajun seasoning
For the Pasta:
8 oz (225g) fettuccine or penne pasta
Water for boiling
Salt
For the Sauce:
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
1 cup (240ml) milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 cup (50g) Parmesan cheese, grated
1/2 cup (50g) shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp salt (adjust as needed)
1 tsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped
Extra Parmesan cheese
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
3. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Shrimp
1. Heat olive oil and butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season shrimp and chicken with Cajun seasoning.
3. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Make the Creamy Cajun Sauce
1. In the same pan, melt butter and saute garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring continuously.
3. Add Parmesan and mozzarella cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
4. Season with Cajun seasoning, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Stir in lemon juice for extra brightness (optional).
Step 4: Combine Everything
1. Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.
2. Add back the cooked shrimp and chicken, mixing everything together.
3. Let it simmer for 2 minutes to absorb flavors.
Step 5: Serve
1. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
(Per Serving – Approx. 4 Servings)
Calories: ~600-700 kcal
Protein: ~40g
Carbohydrates: ~50g
Fats: ~30g
Saturated Fat: ~15g
Sodium: ~800mg (varies with Cajun seasoning)
Fiber: 3g
Recipe Notes & Tips
Adjust the Heat: If you like it spicier, add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Lighter Version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream and reduce cheese.
Protein Swaps: Try using salmon, andouille sausage, or just vegetables instead of shrimp and chicken.
Storage & Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s texture.
Best Pasta Choice: Fettuccine, penne, or linguine work well, but any pasta will do!
This dish is bold, creamy, and packed with flavor perfect for a comforting meal!