Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a big, comforting bowl of Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta. The spicy Cajun seasoning, tender shrimp, and juicy chicken come together in a rich, creamy sauce that coats every bite of pasta perfectly. It's the kind of meal that makes you feel like you're dining at a restaurant, but it's easy enough to whip up at home.

this Recipe

I first fell in love with this dish during a trip to New Orleans, where bold, zesty flavors rule the culinary scene. Bringing those flavors into my own kitchen was a game-changer, and now this pasta has become a staple in our house. Whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

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

Get ready to fall in love with this creamy, spicy, and satisfying pasta dish. It's packed with flavor and has just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.

First off, it's incredibly easy to make. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen—this meal comes together in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

It’s also packed with protein. With both shrimp and chicken, this dish is hearty and filling. You get a delicious balance of flavors and textures, from tender chicken to succulent shrimp.

Another big win? It’s super versatile. Adjust the spice level to your preference, swap out the protein, or even make it a bit healthier with whole wheat pasta and a lighter sauce.

Best of all, this pasta is restaurant-quality, but way more budget-friendly. A meal like this at a restaurant could cost you upwards of $20 per plate, but making it at home keeps your wallet happy without sacrificing flavor.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta comes from its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Every element works together to create a perfectly balanced dish.

Cajun seasoning is the star of the show here. It brings the heat and the bold, smoky flavors that make this dish irresistible. You can use store-bought Cajun seasoning or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme.

For the pasta, I recommend using penne or fettuccine. Both shapes hold onto the creamy sauce well, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can try whole wheat or gluten-free pasta.

The combination of shrimp and chicken adds a wonderful contrast in texture and taste. I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, as they stay juicy and tender. For the shrimp, go for medium to large-sized ones, peeled and deveined for easy eating.

A blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates the luxurious, creamy sauce. If you want a lighter version, you can substitute half-and-half or a mix of cream and chicken broth, though the sauce won't be as thick.

Finally, garlic and onions help build the base flavor of the dish, adding depth and richness. A little fresh parsley on top adds color and freshness to balance out the spice.

How To Make This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Making this dish is easier than you think! Follow these simple steps, and you'll have a restaurant-quality meal in no time.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water well—it makes a big difference in flavor. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving about a cup of pasta water for later.

While the pasta cooks, season the chicken with Cajun seasoning. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat with a little olive oil, then add the chicken. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Next, add the shrimp to the same pan with a bit more Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.

In the same pan, sauté the onions and garlic until fragrant and softened. Then, pour in the heavy cream, stirring to scrape up any flavorful bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. Add in the Parmesan cheese, stirring until the sauce is smooth and creamy.

Return the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp to the skillet, tossing everything together so the sauce coats every bite. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency.

Let everything simmer for a couple of minutes so the flavors can meld together. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve hot!

Storage Options

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers store well, too! Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To reheat, add a splash of cream or broth to loosen up the sauce and warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat. The microwave works too—just heat in short bursts, stirring in between to avoid overcooking the shrimp.

I don’t recommend freezing this pasta, as the creamy sauce can separate when thawed, affecting the texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this dish is how customizable it is! Here are some fun ways to switch things up.

Want to make it spicier? Add a little extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to amp up the heat.

For a lighter version, swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or use a mix of cream and chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies like spinach or bell peppers to bulk up the dish with more nutrients.

Prefer a different protein? Try swapping the shrimp for crab, sausage, or even tofu for a unique twist.

If you love smoky flavors, consider using blackened chicken instead. Just coat the chicken in blackening seasoning and sear it in a hot skillet for a charred, flavorful crust.

No Cajun seasoning on hand? Make your own with a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano—it's super easy and customizable!

No matter how you tweak it, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is sure to be a hit. Give it a try, and let me know how you like it!

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