Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

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)
Instructions:
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!