It was one of those evenings when I couldn’t decide between chicken or shrimp—so I went with both. I was craving something rich, spicy, and satisfying, and this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta was exactly what I needed. There’s just something irresistible about the way tender shrimp and juicy chicken pair with smoky Cajun seasoning and a luscious, creamy sauce.
It all came together in one pan, and by the time I stirred in the pasta, the whole kitchen smelled like a restaurant in New Orleans. The flavors? Bold and comforting, with just the right amount of heat and creaminess to make you want seconds (or thirds). This dish is now on heavy rotation in my weeknight dinner lineup—and for good reason.
Short Description
Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a one-pan comfort dish packed with bold Cajun flavor, tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and a creamy garlic Parmesan sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or date-night dinners at home.
Key Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into strips)
- 1/2 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Tools Needed
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Medium pot (for boiling pasta)
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife & cutting board
- Colander
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Boil pasta in salted water according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
Toss chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 4–5 minutes, until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add a little butter. Toss shrimp with remaining Cajun seasoning and sauté for 2–3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté Veggies & Garlic
Add bell peppers and garlic to the pan. Cook for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 5: Make the Creamy Sauce
Lower heat to medium. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to deglaze the pan. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then stir in Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken slightly.
Step 6: Bring It All Together
Return cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan. Add cooked pasta and toss everything together in the sauce. Simmer another 1–2 minutes until heated through and coated in creamy goodness.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Top with chopped parsley and a little extra Parmesan if desired. Serve hot and dig in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Cajun Flavor – Smoky, spicy, and savory in every bite.
- Creamy & Comforting – The sauce is velvety smooth and coats the pasta perfectly.
- One-Pan Wonder – Fewer dishes, more deliciousness.
- Customizable – Adjust the spice level or use only chicken or shrimp.
Tips & Variations
- Use Andouille sausage instead of (or with) chicken for a smoky twist.
- Add a pinch of cayenne for extra heat.
- Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter version.
- Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
FAQs
Can I make it less spicy?
Yes! Just reduce the Cajun seasoning or use a mild blend.
Can I use frozen shrimp?
Absolutely—just thaw and pat them dry before cooking.
Does it reheat well?
It does! Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to keep it saucy.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta. It’s bold, rich, and full of flavor—perfect for impressing guests or spoiling yourself with a decadent homemade dinner. It’s the kind of dish that warms your belly and makes you feel like you’ve been transported straight to the heart of Louisiana.