If you’re craving a dish that packs big flavors with a cozy, indulgent feel, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine perfectly cooked shrimp and tender chicken, seasoned with bold Cajun spices, swimming in a luscious, creamy sauce that clings to al dente pasta. Every bite offers a balance of spicy, savory, and creamy notes, creating an unforgettable dinner that feels both special and wonderfully comforting. Whether it’s a weeknight treat or a weekend feast, this recipe brings vibrant color, exciting textures, and serious soul into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe is in its simplicity and quality ingredients. Each component plays a key role: fresh shrimp and chicken for protein, Cajun seasoning for that signature kick, and creamy elements that bring everything together in a silky sauce. The colorful bell peppers add a sweet crunch and a pop of vibrancy that makes the dish as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate.
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta: Choose your favorite shape; both hold the sauce beautifully, making every bite rich and indulgent.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the shrimp and chicken—adds a light fruitiness and helps with that perfect sear.
- 1/2 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined): The star seafood that’ll deliver a tender, juicy bite seasoned with spicy goodness.
- 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces): Provides hearty protein with a subtle flavor that absorbs the Cajun seasoning and sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided): This spice mix is the soul of the dish, bringing robust, smoky, and spicy warmth.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps soften the bell peppers to perfection.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Offers sweetness and a colorful contrast to the spice.
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced): Adds a bright pop of color and mild sweetness for balance.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic infuses the sauce with an aromatic depth that’s simply irresistible.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The creaminess that turns this dish into pure comfort food.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Lightens the sauce slightly and adds savory complexity.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: For that salty, nutty finish that binds the sauce and pasta wonderfully.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): Adds freshness and a lovely herbal note to brighten the dish just before serving.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your pasta in salted water according to the package directions until it’s perfectly al dente. Drain it well and set it aside. This foundation is key because the pasta needs just the right texture to hold up against the creamy sauce without getting mushy.
Step 2: Sear the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning so they’re evenly coated. Sear them for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn an inviting pink and are just opaque. Don’t overcook—shrimp cook fast and should remain tender. Remove them from the skillet and keep them warm.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add the bite-sized chicken pieces and sprinkle with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken for 5 to 6 minutes, turning occasionally, until nicely browned and cooked through. This gives you those juicy morsels packed with spicy goodness. Once done, remove the chicken and set it aside with the shrimp.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
Add butter to the skillet, then toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes until the peppers soften slightly but still keep a bit of their snap. The garlic should be fragrant but not burnt. These veggies bring sweetness and an inviting crunch to the dish.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine all those delicious bits in the skillet. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, which helps it thicken slightly. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts smoothly into the sauce, creating that irresistible creamy texture everyone loves.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Now, add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together carefully to ensure the pasta is fully coated with the creamy Cajun sauce and the proteins and veggies are evenly distributed. Let it warm through for a minute or two, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking. Your dish is ready to impress!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a pop of green that brightens the plate and adds a subtle herbaceous note to complement the spiciness. If you want to elevate the flavor even further, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can awaken the dish with a fresh, zesty lift.
Side Dishes
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe pairs beautifully with a simple green salad tossed with a light vinaigrette, helping to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is another winning choice, perfect for mopping up any extra luscious sauce on your plate.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this dish family-style in a large shallow bowl to encourage sharing and conversation at the table. Alternatively, plating individual portions with a final flourish of herbs and a Parmesan crisp on top adds a restaurant-quality touch that feels special for guests or a cozy date night.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe keeps well for up to 3 days, making it a smart choice for easy next-day lunches or quick dinners without losing much of its flavor or texture.
Freezing
Freezing this creamy pasta is possible but not always ideal due to the cream-based sauce, which can sometimes separate when thawed. If you choose to freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. When reheated, add a splash of cream or broth to bring back the silky texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the pasta gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Adding a little chicken broth or cream will help restore the sauce’s luscious creaminess. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can cause uneven heating and change the texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or penne are great at holding the sauce, feel free to swap in other shapes like rigatoni, linguine, or even farfalle. Just make sure to cook them al dente for the best result.
Is it possible to make this dish less spicy?
Yes! You can reduce the Cajun seasoning amount or choose a mild blend to tone down the heat without sacrificing flavor. Adding a bit more cream when making the sauce can also mellow the spice.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter alternative, half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream cheese can work, but the sauce may be less rich and slightly thinner. Coconut milk is an option if you want a dairy-free version, but it will add a different flavor profile.
Can I prepare the shrimp and chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can precook the proteins and refrigerate them separately. Just add them to the sauce and pasta when reheating to avoid overcooking and keep everything tender and juicy.
What wine pairs well with Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe?
A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light Chardonnay complements the creamy, spicy flavors wonderfully. If you prefer reds, try a fruity Pinot Noir that won’t overpower the dish.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe wonderfully blends bold spices with luxurious creaminess, making it a standout dish that’s surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s perfect for anyone who loves dishes that are flavorful, colorful, and comforting all at once. I can’t wait for you to dive in and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
Print
Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
A rich and flavorful creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta that combines tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and vibrant bell peppers in a luscious Parmesan cream sauce. Perfect for a quick, satisfying weeknight dinner with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Protein & Seasoning
- 1/2 pound medium shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 1/2 pound boneless skinless chicken breast (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Dairy & Broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Others
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and cook for 2–3 minutes on each side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces and season with the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and browned. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Sauté peppers and garlic: Add butter to the skillet and melt over medium heat. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with the minced garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until the peppers are softened and fragrant.
- Make the cream sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth to the sautéed peppers and garlic, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add cheese and combine: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together until evenly coated and heated through.
- Season and garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving if desired.
Notes
- Adjust the heat level by using more or less Cajun seasoning to suit your taste.
- For extra brightness and flavor, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving.
- Use penne or fettuccine depending on your pasta preference; both work well to hold the creamy sauce.
- To reduce the richness, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, though the sauce will be less thick.
