This creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta is a flavorful dish that brings together tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and a rich, creamy sauce with a kick of Cajun spice. The combination of spices, cream, and perfectly cooked pasta makes this meal a go-to for weeknight dinners or a special occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish perfectly balances spicy, creamy, and savory flavors in every bite. The Cajun seasoning brings just the right amount of heat, while the creaminess of the sauce complements the shrimp and chicken. It’s a hearty and satisfying meal, with tender pasta, juicy shrimp, and succulent chicken all coated in a rich, flavorful sauce. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be on the table in under an hour!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast, sliced
1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
12 oz fettuccine pasta
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 tbsp butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup chicken broth
1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Cook the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
In a large bowl, season the chicken breast slices with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken slices and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Season with the remaining Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook until pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet and melt. Add the garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 3-4 minutes to thicken.
Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss to coat everything in the sauce. Let it cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat everything through.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Kick: If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for an extra punch of spice.
Vegetable Add-ins: Add some bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra veggies and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Swap the fettuccine pasta for gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk or almond milk in place of heavy cream and a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to make this dish dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, place the pasta in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of milk or chicken broth. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

How can I make this recipe spicier?

You can add more Cajun seasoning or include a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra boost of spice. If you prefer, a few dashes of hot sauce will also do the trick.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can use any pasta you prefer. Penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti would all work well with this creamy sauce.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can make the sauce and cook the proteins in advance, then reheat everything together when you’re ready to serve. Cook the pasta just before serving for the best texture.

Can I use frozen shrimp?

Yes, you can use frozen shrimp for this recipe. Just make sure to thaw and drain the shrimp before cooking.

Can I use a different kind of meat instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can swap the chicken for turkey, or even go all-shrimp if you prefer.

Conclusion

This creamy Cajun shrimp and chicken pasta is a rich, satisfying meal full of bold flavors and creamy goodness. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner and indulgent enough for a special occasion. The combination of shrimp, chicken, and Cajun spice will have everyone coming back for seconds!