If you’re craving a dish that brings together tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a luscious, spicy sauce, you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect comfort meal that balances bold Cajun flavors with a rich, creamy sauce, wrapped around perfectly cooked pasta. This recipe is incredibly satisfying and packed with protein, sure to become your go-to when you want to wow your family or friends with something effortlessly impressive but still homey and warm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in a handful of simple yet essential ingredients that each play a crucial role. From the spicy Cajun seasoning that wakes up your taste buds to the creamy Parmesan that brings everything together, every component adds just the right touch of flavor, texture, and color.
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Fresh or thawed shrimp ensure a tender bite that cooks quickly.
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips: Chicken adds hearty protein and texture contrast.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided): This blend of spices gives the dish its signature kick, divided to season meat and sauce perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Essential for a good sear on your chicken and shrimp.
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta: Choose your favorite shape to soak up that creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Adds richness and helps soften garlic, building the flavor base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Aromatic and flavorful, garlic elevates every bite.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The backbone of the creamy sauce that makes this pasta so indulgent.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds depth and lightness to balance the cream.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Melts smoothly into the sauce, lending nutty, savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Provides a smoky warmth that complements the Cajun spice.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To perfectly round out the seasoning.
- Chopped parsley and grated Parmesan for garnish (optional): Fresh parsley adds color and brightness, while extra Parmesan creates an irresistible finish.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by cooking the pasta according to the package directions until it’s al dente. This ensures that the pasta has a slight bite and holds its shape under the creamy sauce. Drain and set aside, but keep it warm so it’s ready when your sauce is done.
Step 2: Season the Meat
While the pasta cooks, generously season the shrimp and chicken with half of your Cajun seasoning. This first layer of spice is what builds the bold flavor profile that makes this dish stand out, allowing the shrimp and chicken to soak in that lovely Cajun heat.
Step 3: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook until they develop a golden brown crust and are cooked through, usually about 5 to 6 minutes. This step locks in the juiciness of the chicken while creating extra flavor to carry through the dish. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Step 4: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Using the same pan builds layers of flavor as the shrimp absorbs the leftover cooking remnants. Once cooked, remove and set aside with the chicken.
Step 5: Build the Sauce
Reduce the heat to medium, then add butter and the minced garlic to the pan. Sauté for about a minute to release its fragrant aroma without burning. Next, stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, remaining Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently, allowing the spices to infuse the creamy base.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheese
Once the sauce begins to simmer, add the grated Parmesan. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce thickens to a smooth, velvety consistency. This cheesy richness ties together all the spicy and smoky elements beautifully.
Step 7: Combine and Finish
Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together so the sauce generously coats every strand and bite of protein. Let it heat through for another minute or two to marry all the flavors perfectly before serving.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh contrast to the creamy richness of the pasta. For those who love an extra cheesy touch, a bit of grated Parmesan scattered on top never fails to impress.
Side Dishes
This dish is filling on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some roasted vegetables. The freshness of a simple salad with a light vinaigrette or the sweetness of roasted bell peppers can balance the creamy, spicy pasta perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, serve this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe in individual shallow bowls with colorful garnishes and a wedge of lemon on the side for a citrusy zing. Alternatively, turn it into a family-style meal by serving from a large, beautiful skillet right at the table for an inviting, cozy vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers from this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it before sealing to keep the flavors bright and fresh.
Freezing
Because of the creamy sauce, freezing is not recommended as it can change the sauce’s texture, causing it to separate when reheated. For best results, enjoy this dish freshly made or refrigerated within a few days.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating is possible but make sure to cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between to maintain creaminess.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp in this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked shrimp can save time; just add them at the end of cooking to warm through so they don’t become rubbery.
What type of pasta works best for this dish?
Both fettuccine and penne are excellent choices. Fettuccine offers a broad surface for the sauce, while penne’s tubes trap the creamy sauce inside, giving you bursts of flavor.
How spicy is this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The Cajun seasoning gives a moderate heat that complements the creamy sauce. You can always adjust the amount of seasoning based on your spice preference.
Can I add vegetables to this recipe?
Yes! Bell peppers, spinach, or even mushrooms can be sautéed and added for extra color, texture, and nutrients without overpowering the dish.
Is there a dairy-free alternative for this dish?
You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use dairy-free Parmesan alternatives, but keep in mind this will alter the flavor profile slightly from the traditional creamy taste.
Final Thoughts
There is something so wonderfully comforting about this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe that makes it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. Its rich, spicy, and cheesy notes come together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and exciting. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how quickly it becomes a cherished favorite in your kitchen, too!
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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
A flavorful and creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta dish combining tender chicken strips and succulent shrimp in a rich, spicy Alfredo-style sauce. This hearty meal features perfectly cooked pasta tossed in a luscious sauce made with heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and a blend of Cajun spices, delivering bold, comforting Southern flavors ideal for a satisfying dinner.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1/2 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
Seasoning and Oils
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Pasta
- 8 ounces fettuccine or penne pasta
Sauce Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish (Optional)
- Chopped parsley
- Grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Pasta: Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside to keep warm.
- Season the Protein: Toss the shrimp and chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to evenly coat the pieces.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken strips and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook Shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
- Prepare the Sauce: Reduce the skillet heat to medium, then add butter and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Stir in the heavy cream, chicken broth, remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Incorporate Cheese: Add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce, stirring constantly until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back to the skillet. Toss carefully to coat all ingredients thoroughly in the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Final Heating: Cook the combined mixture for an additional 1 to 2 minutes to ensure everything is heated through and flavors meld.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta hot, garnished with chopped parsley and extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
- Use pre-cooked shrimp to save time; add them at the end just to heat through.
- Add bell peppers or spinach for extra vegetables and color.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your preferred spice level for milder or spicier taste.
