Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe

There’s something magical about a bowl of creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta. The combination of tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and a rich, spicy sauce coating every bite of pasta makes this dish impossible to resist. It’s a restaurant-quality meal that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe on a night when I couldn’t decide between seafood or chicken, and I didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It turned out to be the perfect solution—packed with bold flavors, incredibly creamy, and ready in under 45 minutes. Now, it’s a staple in my household, loved by everyone from picky eaters to spice enthusiasts.

Why You’ll Love This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with a meal that brings the perfect mix of heat, creaminess, and savory goodness. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish for guests, this pasta won’t let you down.

One of the best things about this recipe is how quick and easy it is to prepare. Even with a rich, homemade sauce, you can have dinner on the table in just 40 minutes.

It’s also a one-pan wonder (aside from boiling the pasta). Cooking everything in the same skillet means fewer dishes to wash and more time to enjoy your meal.

The flavors are bold and customizable. The Cajun seasoning adds a kick, but you can adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Want it extra spicy? Add more cayenne. Prefer a milder version? Use a little less seasoning.

Best of all, this dish is restaurant-worthy without the high cost. Instead of spending $20 per plate at a seafood restaurant, you can make this hearty meal at home for a fraction of the price.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating that perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and texture.

Let’s start with the shrimp and chicken—the stars of the show. Use large shrimp (peeled and deveined) for the best texture and flavor. Boneless, skinless chicken breast works well for a lean protein option, but you can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

The Cajun seasoning is what gives this dish its signature kick. Store-bought blends work great, but if you want to make your own, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano will do the trick.

To create that luscious, velvety sauce, you’ll need heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The heavy cream makes the sauce rich and indulgent, while the Parmesan adds a nutty, savory depth of flavor.

Don’t forget the pasta! Fettuccine or penne are excellent choices because they hold onto the sauce beautifully. If you prefer something lighter, whole wheat or gluten-free pasta works too.

Finally, a touch of butter and garlic ties everything together, enhancing the dish with an extra layer of richness and aroma.

How to Make This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Making this dish is easier than you think. With a little bit of prep and a few simple steps, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal in no time.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. Make sure to reserve about ½ cup of pasta water—it can help loosen the sauce later if needed.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then season the shrimp and chicken with Cajun seasoning. Cook the shrimp for about 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque, then remove them from the pan. In the same skillet, cook the chicken pieces until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Reduce the heat to medium and melt butter in the same pan. Add garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring to combine all the flavors. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes, then add the Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until melted and smooth.

Return the shrimp and chicken to the skillet, stirring them into the sauce. Add the cooked pasta and toss everything together, making sure every strand is coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water until you reach the perfect consistency.

Give the dish a final taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan for a finishing touch.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (which isn’t always the case because it’s that good), store them properly to keep the dish tasting fresh.

For refrigeration, place the pasta in an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of cream or milk when reheating will bring it back to life.

For freezing, creamy sauces don’t always freeze well, but if you must, store the pasta in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently over low heat.

To reheat, warm the pasta in a skillet over low heat, adding a little cream or broth to loosen up the sauce. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can cause the sauce to separate.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to tweak to your preferences or dietary needs.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or a mix of milk and a little cornstarch. The sauce won’t be as rich, but it will still be delicious.

If you don’t eat seafood, simply double the chicken or substitute with smoked sausage for a different but equally flavorful protein option.

Want to pack in more veggies? Sauté bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach along with the garlic to add more nutrients and color to the dish.

For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free pasta and make sure your Cajun seasoning blend doesn’t contain hidden gluten.

Love extra heat? Add red pepper flakes or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce for an even bolder Cajun kick.

No matter how you make it, this creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta is a guaranteed hit. Play around with the ingredients, make it your own, and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!

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