Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful dish that perfectly balances the heat of Cajun seasoning with the creamy, indulgent sauce. This recipe combines juicy shrimp, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta in a luscious, spiced-up cream sauce that will leave your taste buds dancing. With its bold flavors and satisfying texture, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner, date night, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The smoky, spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce, making each bite irresistible. Whether you’re a seafood lover or a chicken fan, this recipe brings both together in one deliciously creamy, comforting dish.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Bold and Flavorful

The combination of Cajun spices creates a smoky, zesty flavor that adds depth to the creamy sauce, making each bite packed with flavor.

2. Perfectly Balanced Heat

The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of heat, which can be adjusted to suit your preferences—mild to spicy!

3. Two Proteins in One Dish

The dish features both shrimp and chicken, so you get the best of both worlds with juicy, tender shrimp and flavorful, well-seasoned chicken.

4. Creamy Comfort Food

The creamy sauce adds richness to the dish, making it a satisfying and comforting meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

5. Quick and Easy

This recipe is simple to make and comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute dinner option.

Ingredients

For the Pasta:

Your favorite pasta (penne, fettuccine, or spaghetti work well)
Salt (for pasta water)

For the Chicken and Shrimp:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Shrimp (peeled and deveined)
Cajun seasoning
Olive oil or butter (for cooking)
Garlic (minced)
Fresh lemon juice

For the Creamy Sauce:

Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Parmesan cheese (grated)
Onion powder
Paprika
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Variations

1. Vegetarian Version

To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the chicken and shrimp and instead use vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and spinach for added texture and flavor.

2. Spicy Cajun

If you love extra heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning, add cayenne pepper, or use a dash of hot sauce in the sauce.

3. Gluten-Free Version

Use gluten-free pasta in place of regular pasta for a gluten-free alternative to this dish.

4. Add More Veggies

Incorporate vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini into the sauce to add more color and nutrients to the dish.

5. Seafood-Only Version

For a seafood-focused dish, you can double the shrimp amount or add other seafood like scallops or lobster for a luxurious version of the dish.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Once done, drain and set aside, reserving about 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In a large skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked and golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside to rest. Once the chicken has cooled slightly, slice it into thin strips.

Step 3: Cook the Shrimp

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil or butter if necessary. Add the shrimp and season with Cajun seasoning and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are pink and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.

Step 4: Make the Creamy Sauce

In the same skillet, add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Add the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Let it reduce slightly for 2-3 minutes. Next, add the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, onion powder, paprika, and more Cajun seasoning to taste. Stir well to combine and simmer for another 3-4 minutes, until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Add the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the creamy sauce to coat it evenly. Add the cooked chicken and shrimp to the pasta, mixing well. If the sauce is too thick, add some reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

Serve the pasta immediately, garnished with freshly chopped parsley and an additional sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired. Squeeze a little fresh lemon juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Cook the chicken and shrimp separately: This ensures both proteins are perfectly cooked and not overcooked in the same pan.
Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the Cajun seasoning or opt for a milder variety of seasoning.
Use fresh Parmesan cheese: Grating your own Parmesan adds more flavor and helps the cheese melt smoothly into the sauce.
Don’t overcook the shrimp: Shrimp cook very quickly, so watch them carefully to avoid rubbery shrimp.
Reserve pasta water: It’s great for adjusting the sauce consistency and ensuring everything blends together smoothly.

How to Serve

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is delicious on its own, but you can pair it with:

A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette
Garlic bread or crusty bread for dipping
Roasted vegetables such as asparagus or Brussels sprouts for added texture and flavor
A chilled glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay, to complement the creamy richness of the dish

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or cream to bring back the creamy texture.

Freezing

While pasta dishes can be frozen, this recipe is best enjoyed fresh. However, if you need to freeze it, make sure to let the pasta cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little milk or cream to maintain the creaminess. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan.

FAQs

1. Can I use shrimp with the shells on?

Yes, but it’s easier to work with peeled and deveined shrimp. You can still cook shrimp with the shells on, but it will take a little longer to remove the shells.

2. Can I make this recipe without chicken?

Yes, you can omit the chicken and use more shrimp or a combination of other seafood like scallops.

3. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! You can substitute any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, penne, or spaghetti.

4. How can I make the sauce spicier?

Add extra Cajun seasoning, a pinch of cayenne pepper, or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the dish more heat.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This recipe is best served fresh, but you can prepare the sauce, cook the chicken and shrimp, and store them separately. When ready to serve, reheat and assemble.

6. What can I use instead of heavy cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free option like coconut cream.

7. How do I prevent the shrimp from being overcooked?

Shrimp cook very quickly, so once they turn pink, they’re done. Keep a close eye on them to avoid overcooking.

8. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.

9. Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, store-bought Cajun seasoning works fine, but making your own blend allows you to adjust the spices to your liking.

10. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken—it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.

Conclusion

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is the perfect blend of bold flavors, creamy richness, and satisfying textures. With tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and a creamy, spiced-up sauce, this dish is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy it. Quick, easy, and full of flavor, this recipe is a go-to for busy nights when you want something comforting yet packed with deliciousness.