If you’re craving a dish that brings together rich, sultry flavors with a delightful kick, then you’re in for a treat with this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe. It perfectly marries tender chicken and succulent shrimp tossed in a luscious, spicy cream sauce that clings lovingly to every strand of pasta. This dish is an absolute crowd-pleaser with its vibrant Cajun spices, velvety sauce, and the comforting heartiness that feels like a big flavorful hug. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply indulging yourself, this recipe promises a deliciously memorable meal every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in the simplicity of its ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in balancing flavor, texture, and color, resulting in a dish that tastes both indulgent and fresh. From the smoky punch of Cajun seasoning to the creamy parmesan-enriched sauce, these essentials come together beautifully to elevate your pasta experience.
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Offers tender, juicy bites that soak up the Cajun spices for a flavor-packed protein base.
- Shrimp (peeled and deveined): Adds a delicate sweetness and a seaside touch that contrasts perfectly with the creamy sauce.
- Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the dish; this blend spices things up with paprika, garlic, and a hint of heat.
- Olive Oil: Used for cooking, it adds a subtle richness and helps to sear the chicken and shrimp beautifully.
- Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning that balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice): Acts as the comforting canvas that soaks up all the creamy goodness.
- Butter: Creates a silky base for the sauce and adds richness.
- Onion (chopped): Provides a sweet, aromatic flavor base.
- Garlic (minced): Gives the dish an irresistible fragrant kick.
- Heavy Cream: Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- Chicken Broth: Adds depth and balances the creaminess with a savory note.
- Grated Parmesan Cheese: Brings a sharp, salty flavor that enriches the sauce.
- Paprika: Adds smoky warmth and color.
- Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who love an extra sprinkle of heat.
- Fresh Parsley: A fresh, bright garnish to finish the dish beautifully.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Proteins
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into bite-sized strips or pieces that are easy to eat. Toss both the chicken and peeled shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning each, making sure every piece gets that vibrant, spicy coating. This initial seasoning is what will infuse your proteins with that unmistakable Cajun kick.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook it until it is beautifully golden on the outside and cooked through—about 5-7 minutes. Once done, transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside. This first sear locks in flavor and keeps the chicken juicy.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add your seasoned shrimp. Because shrimp cooks quickly, give it just 2-3 minutes per side until it turns pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set it aside with the chicken — soon they’ll reunite in that decadent sauce!
Step 4: Cook the Pasta
While you’re cooking your proteins, bring a large pot of salted water to boil and cook your chosen pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Remember to reserve a little pasta water before draining; this starchy water is pure gold for adjusting sauce consistency later.
Step 5: Build the Sauce Base
In your skillet, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, and cook until soft and translucent, letting it develop sweetness that will balance the spices. Then stir in the minced garlic, cooking for just 30 seconds until fragrant — the smell alone is enough to make your mouth water.
Step 6: Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth, taking a wooden spoon to scrape up all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the skillet—this step adds tons of savory depth to the sauce. Stir in the heavy cream, paprika, the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if you like that extra heat. Bring everything to a gentle simmer, letting those flavors meld into a thick, dreamy sauce.
Step 7: Combine Everything
Now, return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet, followed by the drained pasta. Toss everything together, ensuring each piece of protein and every pasta strand is luxuriously coated in that creamy, spicy sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, remember that reserved pasta water is your best friend — add a little at a time until you hit the perfect consistency.
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing your dish with fresh parsley isn’t just about a pop of color — it adds a herbaceous brightness that perfectly cuts through the richness, making every bite pop with flavor.
Side Dishes
Serve this pasta alongside a crisp green salad tossed with vinaigrette to offer a refreshing contrast to the creamy spiciness. Garlic bread is another favorite companion, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, pile the pasta high on warmed plates and sprinkle extra parmesan and red pepper flakes on top. You could even serve it family-style in a large skillet, letting your guests dig in and enjoy that irresistible aroma right at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making for a comforting next-day meal.
Freezing
This pasta is best enjoyed fresh due to the cream sauce and seafood, but you can freeze the cooked chicken and shrimp separately before combining. Store in freezer-friendly containers for up to 2 months and thaw overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat leftovers on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid the microwave when possible, as it can dry out the shrimp and chicken.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fettuccine, penne, or even rigatoni works great with the creamy sauce—choose whichever shape you prefer or have on hand. Just ensure it holds the sauce well.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap traditional pasta for your favorite gluten-free variety, and ensure your Cajun seasoning doesn’t contain gluten. The flavors and creaminess remain just as delicious.
Can I adjust the spice level in this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Definitely. Reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes for a milder dish, or add more Cajun seasoning if you want a bolder heat. It’s all about tailoring the spice to your taste buds.
What can I substitute for heavy cream if I want a lighter sauce?
You can use half-and-half or evaporated milk, but note the sauce will be less rich and creamy. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut milk works surprisingly well with Cajun flavors.
Can I prep any parts of the recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can season and chop the chicken and shrimp ahead, and even cook the pasta in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then assemble and cook the sauce right before serving for maximum freshness.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about how the Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe comes together—each bite feels indulgent yet balanced, packed with a fusion of spicy, creamy, and savory notes. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but is surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or to impress friends without fuss. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try—you might just find your new favorite pasta that always brings joy to the table.
Print
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
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish featuring tender chicken breast and succulent shrimp seasoned with bold Cajun spices. Cooked in a rich, creamy sauce infused with garlic, onions, and Parmesan cheese, it brings a perfect balance of spicy and savory flavors. Ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner, this pasta recipe combines ease of preparation with restaurant-quality taste.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts (cut into strips or bite-sized pieces)
- 1/2 lb Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Seasoning and Oil
- 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning (divided)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil (for cooking)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
Pasta
- 8 oz Pasta (fettuccine, penne, or your choice)
Sauce Ingredients
- 3 tbsp Butter
- 1 small Onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 cup Heavy Cream
- 1/2 cup Chicken Broth
- 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 1/2 tsp Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Garnish
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Protein: Season the chicken strips and shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Set aside to allow the flavors to infuse.
- Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water before draining.
- Sauté the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Shrimp: In the same skillet, add shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
- Start the Sauce: Reduce heat to medium, add butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
- Deglaze: Pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to lift any browned bits for extra flavor.
- Simmer the Sauce: Stir in the heavy cream, paprika, remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.
- Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken, shrimp, and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together to coat in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is reached. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes.
- Use any favorite pasta shape, though fettuccine or penne work best with creamy sauces.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a reduced-fat alternative.
- Make sure not to overcook the shrimp to keep them tender and juicy.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently to prevent the cream sauce from separating.
