Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Total Time: 45 mins Difficulty: Intermediate
Spice up your dinner with this creamy Cajun shrimp & chicken pasta that brings a zesty, savory twist to classic fettuccine nights!
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If you’re craving a dinner that brings a burst of Southern flair straight to your kitchen, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is your new go-to. It combines tender slices of chicken breast and plump shrimp, each coated in a smoky, zesty Cajun seasoning that wakes up your taste buds. Tossed with al dente fettuccine, vibrant red bell peppers, and a silky Parmesan cream sauce, this dish delivers layers of flavor in every forkful. With a 15-minute prep time and about 30 minutes on the stove, you’ll have a restaurant-worthy meal ready to impress—even if you’re juggling a busy weeknight.

Beyond the rich, creamy sauce and perfectly spiced protein, you’ll love how the sautéed onions and garlic mingle with the chicken broth and heavy cream to form a luscious coating that clings to every strand of pasta. Plus, a sprinkle of fresh parsley brightens the finish. If you’re an intermediate home cook looking to level up your dinner game, this recipe is just spicy enough to be exciting without overwhelming your palate. Clocking in at around 830 calories per serving, it’s an indulgent treat that feels every bit as comforting as it tastes.

This dish has become one of my favorite weekend experiments and mid-week lifesavers. The first time I tried it, I remember the sizzling sound as the chicken hit the skillet and that first whiff of garlic and butter mingling in the pan—it was love at first bite! I’ve dialed in the seasoning over a few test runs, adjusting the heat to hit that sweet spot of warmth without setting off the fire alarm. Serve it up with crusty bread for mopping up extra sauce, and you’ll feel like you’ve discovered a secret family recipe. Trust me, once you’ve made this creamy Cajun pasta, you’ll find yourself daydreaming about it until it’s back on your plate.

KEY INGREDIENTS IN CREAMY CAJUN SHRIMP AND CHICKEN PASTA

Before you dive into the cooking, let’s break down what makes this pasta so irresistible and how each component plays its part in creating that perfect, balanced bite.

  • Fettuccine pasta

Holds sauce beautifully thanks to its wide, flat shape. It’s sturdy enough to carry the rich cream mixture and bits of chicken and shrimp without getting soggy.

  • Olive oil

Provides a smooth base for searing the chicken and shrimp. It helps the Cajun seasoning adhere evenly and adds a subtle fruitiness to each bite.

  • Boneless, skinless chicken breast

When sliced thin, it cooks quickly and stays tender. It soaks up the smoky Cajun spices and complements the shrimp with its mild flavor.

  • Large shrimp

Adds a sweet, briny contrast to the creamy sauce. Peeled and deveined, the shrimp cook fast and deliver a satisfying pop of seafood goodness.

  • Cajun seasoning

The soul of this recipe: a blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and spices that deliver a gentle kick and vibrant color. It seasons both proteins for consistency.

  • Unsalted butter

Melts into the skillet to sauté the aromatics, lending a rich mouthfeel to the sauce. Unsalted butter lets you control the salt level precisely.

  • Onion

Provides a slightly sweet and savory foundation. As it softens, it deepens the complexity of the sauce.

  • Red bell pepper

Offers a pop of color and crisp sweetness. Its natural sugars caramelize lightly, balancing the heat from the seasoning.

  • Garlic

Minced garlic infuses the dish with its unmistakable warmth and aromatic depth. It’s essential for rounding out the flavor profile.

  • Heavy cream

Creates the lush, velvety base of the sauce. It thickens slowly over gentle heat, marrying perfectly with the broth and cheese.

  • Chicken broth

Thins the heavy cream slightly for better coating consistency, while adding savory depth without overpowering the other components.

  • Grated Parmesan cheese

Melts into the sauce, adding umami richness and a slight nuttiness. It’s the secret to that irresistibly creamy texture.

  • Fresh parsley

A final flourish of green that brightens each serving. It adds a hint of herbal freshness.

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper

Essential seasonings to taste. They enhance all the other ingredients without masking their natural flavors.

HOW TO MAKE CREAMY CAJUN SHRIMP AND CHICKEN PASTA

Let’s dive into the steps that take you from raw ingredients to a steaming plate of creamy, spicy goodness. Follow this easy sequence and rely on your senses—sizzle, aroma, and color—to guide you toward perfection.

1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well and set aside, making sure no excess water dilutes the sauce later.

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering but not smoking. This ensures a perfect sear.

3. Season the chicken breast strips with half of the Cajun seasoning. Add them in a single layer to the skillet and cook for about 5–6 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown and cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

4. In the same skillet, add the shrimp and dust with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until the shrimp turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

5. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, stir in the chopped onion, sliced red bell pepper, and minced garlic. Sauté for 4–5 minutes until the onion is translucent and the peppers soften.

6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly.

7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese in batches until fully melted and incorporated, creating a silky, cohesive sauce.

8. Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together gently, ensuring each strand of pasta is coated in that creamy Cajun sauce. Heat through for a minute or two.

9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, adjusting until the flavors sing.

10. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley just before serving, and enjoy this dish hot for the best texture and taste.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR CREAMY CAJUN SHRIMP AND CHICKEN PASTA

When it’s time to plate up this vibrant pasta, the way you serve it can elevate your dining experience even further. Think beyond the fork—consider presentation, complementary sides, and finishing touches that make each bite memorable. Whether you’re sharing this with family on a casual weeknight or impressing guests at a weekend gathering, these tips will help you showcase that creamy Cajun goodness in style.

  • Serve in warm pasta bowls to keep the sauce creamy longer. Chilled dishes can cause your sauce to tighten up quickly, so warm them in the oven or with hot tap water before plating.
  • Pair with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette. The acidity and crunch will balance the rich creaminess of the pasta, cutting through the spice and leaving your palate refreshed.
  • Accompany with garlic bread or toasted baguette slices. Spreading a bit of butter and garlic on crusty bread creates the perfect vessel for mopping up every last drop of sauce.
  • Offer a cold white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The bright, citrus notes in these wines contrast beautifully with the smoky Cajun flavors and creamy texture.

HOW TO STORE CREAMY CAJUN SHRIMP AND CHICKEN PASTA

If you have leftovers (and trust us, you often will), proper storage is key to maintaining that luscious creaminess and ensuring the seafood and chicken stay tender. Never let the pasta sit out at room temperature for more than two hours, and be mindful of how reheating can affect the sauce’s texture. Follow these guidelines to keep your dish tasting just as fresh as the moment it came off the stove.

When storing in the refrigerator, cool the pasta quickly after serving and transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well for up to 3 days. Before you seal it, remove as much air as possible to prevent the sauce from developing a film on top.

For longer-term storage, portion the pasta into freezer-safe containers, leaving a small gap at the top to allow for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

To reheat, place the desired portion in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to revive the sauce’s consistency. Stir gently until warmed through, then adjust seasoning.

If you notice the sauce separating or becoming too thick, whisk in a little warm broth or cream while reheating. This brings back the smooth, velvety texture that makes this dish so irresistible.

CONCLUSION

From the first sizzle of chicken hitting the skillet to the final sprinkle of parsley, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is all about layering flavors and enjoying the journey as much as the destination. With tender strips of seasoned chicken, succulent shrimp, and vibrant peppers folded into a rich Parmesan cream sauce, every element works in harmony. You’ve learned how to perfectly time each ingredient—cooking the pasta just right, searing proteins to golden perfection, and coaxing out sweet aromatics from onions and garlic. The result is a warming, satisfying plate that feels both indulgent and homey. Remember, this recipe is versatile: swap in linguine or penne, adjust the heat with extra Cajun seasoning or cayenne, or even make it dairy-free by using coconut cream. No matter your twist, you’ll still enjoy that irresistible balance of spice, creaminess, and fresh flair.

Feel free to print this article and save it in your favorite recipe binder for easy reference whenever you need a dinner winner. There’s a FAQ section below designed to answer common questions—you’ll find tips on substitutions, reheating, and more. If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Leave your comments, ask any questions, or share your own variations and feedback. Cooking is all about experimentation and community, so let’s keep the conversation going. Happy cooking!

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Total Time 45 mins
Calories: 830

Description

Bursting with smoky Cajun spices, tender chicken, plump shrimp, and rich Parmesan cream sauce, this pasta melds vibrant peppers and garlic for a mouthwatering, restaurant-worthy dish at home.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Season the chicken breast strips with half of the Cajun seasoning. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes, or until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add shrimp and season with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the shrimp are pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside.
  5. Lower the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, add the chopped onion, red bell pepper, and garlic. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the peppers are tender.
  6. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring constantly. Let the mixture come to a gentle simmer.
  7. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and combined, creating a creamy sauce.
  8. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until well mixed and heated through.
  9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  10. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Enjoy your dish hot.

Note

  • You can substitute the fettuccine pasta with penne or linguine for variation.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning.
  • This recipe can be made dairy-free by using coconut cream instead of heavy cream.
  • Ensure the shrimp are properly deveined to enhance the taste and texture.
  • Pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can be used to save time on preparation.
Keywords: Cajun shrimp pasta, chicken pasta, creamy Cajun pasta, fettuccine recipe, spicy seafood pasta, home dinner recipe

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Frequently Asked Questions

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How long does it take to prepare this recipe?

From start to finish, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta takes about 30 to 35 minutes. That includes 10 minutes to chop vegetables and season proteins, 8 to 10 minutes to cook the pasta, 10 to 12 minutes to sauté the chicken and shrimp, and 5 minutes to build and simmer the sauce before tossing everything together.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can substitute fettuccine with penne or linguine without altering the cooking method. Cook the alternative pasta according to package directions, drain it, and set it aside just as you would for fettuccine. The sauce clings well to tubular shapes like penne and the thinner strands of linguine.

How can I make this dish dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut cream and omit the Parmesan cheese, or use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative. The coconut cream will provide similar creaminess. Taste and adjust Cajun seasoning and salt, as coconut cream can have a slightly sweet note.

How do I ensure the shrimp and chicken cook evenly?

Slice the chicken into uniform thin strips and pat the shrimp dry before seasoning. Cook chicken first for 5 to 6 minutes over medium-high heat until no longer pink, then remove. In the same skillet, cook shrimp for 2 to 3 minutes per side until they curl and turn pink. Keeping pieces similar in size and avoiding overcrowding in the pan guarantees even cooking.

What’s the best way to adjust the spiciness?

To increase heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or an extra half tablespoon of Cajun seasoning when cooking the proteins. To soften the spice, reduce the Cajun seasoning by half for both chicken and shrimp, then balance flavor with a touch more garlic or a sprinkle of sugar in the sauce for subtle sweetness.

Can I prepare any steps in advance?

Yes. You can chop the onion, bell pepper, and garlic up to one day ahead and keep them refrigerated in an airtight container. You can also season the chicken and shrimp the night before to deepen flavor; just cover and refrigerate. Cooked pasta can be prepared up to one hour ahead, tossed lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking, then kept at room temperature until ready to finish the dish.

How should I store and reheat leftovers?

Store cooled leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the pasta, chicken, and shrimp in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to replenish the sauce’s creaminess. Stir gently until heated through. Avoid the microwave if possible, as gentle stovetop reheating preserves texture.

Can I replace chicken breast with something else?

Yes. You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs, slicing them into thin strips and adjusting cooking time to about 6 to 8 minutes until fully cooked. For convenience, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken works well: fold in shredded chicken during step 8 and heat just until warmed, reducing overall cook time.

Sophie Reynolds

Food and Lifestyle Blogger

Hey there—welcome to Faded Mix! I’m Sophie Reynolds, a home cook who believes every meal should tell a story. Born and raised in a bustling suburban kitchen, I fell in love with. My cooking style blends classic comfort—think rich sauces and tender meats—with fresh twists like unexpected spice blends or seasonal produce swaps

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