There's nothing quite like the bold, smoky flavors of Cajun cuisine blended with a rich, creamy sauce to create the perfect comfort meal. This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a restaurant-quality dish that you can easily make at home, packed with juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.

I first made this dish on a whim, craving something indulgent yet easy enough to whip up on a busy weeknight. With just one pan and a handful of simple ingredients, it quickly became a household favorite. The balance of heat from the Cajun spices and the velvety cream sauce is simply irresistible.

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

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that checks all the boxes—flavorful, satisfying, and incredibly simple to make.

First off, it’s quick and easy. In under 40 minutes, you can have a meal that tastes like it came straight from a high-end restaurant. Perfect for busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

This recipe is also packed with bold flavors. The Cajun seasoning infuses every bite with a smoky, slightly spicy kick, while the creamy sauce mellows it out just enough to keep everything balanced.

Plus, it’s versatile. You can adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or even make it a little lighter by using half-and-half instead of heavy cream. It’s a great way to customize your meal to suit your preferences.

And let’s not forget—it’s a one-pan wonder! Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your delicious creation.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta lies in its simple yet perfectly paired ingredients. Each one plays a key role in creating the ultimate harmony of flavor and texture.

Chicken and shrimp are the stars of the show. I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, as both work well. As for the shrimp, opt for medium to large peeled and deveined shrimp for the best texture and flavor.

The Cajun seasoning is what gives this dish its signature smoky heat. You can use store-bought seasoning or make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and a touch of thyme.

The cream sauce is made from a mix of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, creating a silky, luscious consistency that coats the pasta beautifully. If you want a slightly lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half, though it won't be quite as rich.

For the pasta, I love using fettuccine or penne. Their shape helps hold onto the creamy sauce, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Don’t forget the garlic and onions! These add an extra depth of flavor, making the sauce even more delicious.

How To Make This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Making this dish is surprisingly simple, and the result is a decadent, flavor-packed meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water generously—it enhances the pasta’s flavor. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about half a cup of pasta water to help with the sauce later if needed.

Meanwhile, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and drizzle in some olive oil. Season your chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked. Remove from the pan and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed and toss in the shrimp. Cook them for about 2 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly opaque. Remove them from the pan and set aside with the chicken.

Reduce the heat to medium and add butter, followed by diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Then, pour in the heavy cream and stir well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for maximum flavor.

Once the cream is heated through, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to melt and create a velvety sauce. Add the cooked pasta back into the pan, tossing it gently to coat in the creamy mixture.

Finally, return the chicken and shrimp to the skillet, stirring everything together. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up. Let everything simmer for a minute or two before serving.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this pasta stores well and tastes just as delicious the next day!

For refrigeration, place any leftover pasta in an airtight container and store it for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it sits, but a splash of cream or milk when reheating will bring it back to its creamy consistency.

To freeze, transfer the cooled pasta into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

When reheating, use a skillet over low heat, adding a little cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Stir frequently to prevent the sauce from separating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how adaptable it is. Here are some variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

If you prefer a spicier kick, add extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the sauce while simmering.

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

If you’re looking for a low-carb option, try using zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash instead of traditional pasta.

Want a different protein? Swap out the chicken and shrimp for andouille sausage, salmon, or even tofu for a unique twist.

You can also add extra veggies like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach to boost the nutritional value and add more texture to the dish.

No matter how you make it, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to become a new favorite. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself craving it again and again!