Creamy Cajun Shrimp And Chicken Pasta Recipe

There's nothing quite like a big bowl of Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta to satisfy your cravings for bold, comforting flavors. The spicy, smoky notes of Cajun seasoning blend beautifully with the rich, velvety sauce, coating every bite of tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta.

I first discovered this dish on a trip to New Orleans, where Cajun flavors reigned supreme in every restaurant I visited. Inspired by the incredible mix of spices and creamy textures, I knew I had to recreate it at home. The result? A family-favorite recipe that's both restaurant-worthy and easy enough to make on a busy weeknight.

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

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to comfort food! This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta isn't just delicious—it checks all the boxes for a perfect weeknight dinner.

First off, it's quick and easy to make. Despite its complex flavors, this dish comes together in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when time is tight but you still want something special.

It's also packed with flavor. The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and a hint of cayenne creates a bold Cajun seasoning that infuses every bite with warmth and spice.

Another reason to love this recipe? It's budget-friendly. Shrimp and chicken are affordable proteins, and the rest of the ingredients are pantry staples, making this a great way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal without breaking the bank.

Finally, it's versatile. You can easily adjust the spice level to your preference, swap out proteins, or even make a lighter version with a few simple tweaks.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this dish lies in its carefully chosen ingredients, each playing a crucial role in building the perfect balance of spice and creaminess.

Pasta is the foundation of this dish. I recommend using penne or fettuccine, as their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. However, any pasta you have on hand will work just fine.

For the proteins, I use a combination of shrimp and boneless, skinless chicken breasts. The shrimp add a delicate sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spice, while the chicken brings a hearty, satisfying bite. You can also use chicken thighs for extra juiciness.

The Cajun seasoning is the star of the show. A mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, and thyme, this spice blend brings smoky heat to the dish. You can use store-bought seasoning or make your own for better control over the spice level.

The creamy sauce comes together with a blend of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. The cream creates a rich, luscious texture, while the Parmesan adds depth and umami. If you're looking for a lighter option, you can substitute half-and-half or even a mix of milk and Greek yogurt.

Finally, a little butter and garlic tie everything together, enhancing the flavors and adding a touch of indulgence. If you like an extra garlicky kick, feel free to add more!

How To Make This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Creating this flavorful pasta dish is easier than you might think! Follow these simple steps for a perfect result.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Cook until al dente, then drain and set aside. Save about ½ cup of pasta water, as it can help adjust the sauce’s consistency later.

While the pasta cooks, heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then season your chicken with Cajun seasoning and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, melt a tablespoon of butter and add the shrimp, seasoning them generously with Cajun spice. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, just until they turn pink. Remove them from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.

Lower the heat and add garlic and a bit more butter to the skillet. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet, tossing them in the sauce. Finally, add the cooked pasta, stirring everything together so the sauce evenly coats each bite. Let everything simmer for another minute, then remove from heat.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers (though it's hard to resist finishing it all in one sitting), you can store them easily!

For refrigeration, place the pasta in an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but you can loosen it up when reheating with a splash of milk or cream.

To freeze, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

For reheating, warm the pasta over low heat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk, stirring until creamy again. Avoid microwaving on high heat, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Here are a few ways to switch things up:

Spice Level Control – If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning. For extra heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or an extra dash of hot sauce.

Protein Swaps – Don’t eat seafood? Swap the shrimp for all chicken, or try using smoked sausage for a different flavor profile.

Dairy-Free Option – For a dairy-free version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk and use a non-dairy Parmesan alternative.

Gluten-Free Version – Simply swap the pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta, and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

No matter how you customize it, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to become a new favorite in your household!

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