If you’re looking for a dish that perfectly blends a little spice with the comfort of creamy pasta, this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe is an absolute showstopper. Imagine tender chicken and succulent shrimp tossed in a rich, buttery sauce kissed with Cajun spices, all wrapped around your favorite pasta. It’s a heartwarming meal that combines bold flavors and comforting textures, ideal for impressing friends or treating yourself on any night of the week.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is key to making every bite pop with flavor. Each component plays a part, from the luscious cream to the bright red bell pepper adding crunch and vibrancy. Don’t worry—while the list looks robust, these ingredients are simple and easy to find, making this dish perfect for a fuss-free yet impressive dinner.
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta: Choose your favorite shape to soak up all that irresistible sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sear the chicken perfectly and adds a subtle fruity undertone.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced: Tender protein that carries the Cajun seasoning beautifully.
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined: Adds a sweet, briny contrast to the spicy, creamy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided): The star spice blend creating that signature kick and smoky depth.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Melts into the sauce for richness and a silky texture.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses warm, pungent aroma that wakes up the dish.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness, crunch, and a pop of color to brighten the plate.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The base for the luscious sauce that wraps all the flavors together.
- ½ cup chicken broth: Lightens the cream slightly while boosting savoriness.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds nutty complexity and helps thicken the sauce.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance the flavors perfectly.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: Freshens the dish and adds a hint of herbal brightness.
How to Make Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Start by boiling your choice of fettuccine or penne until al dente. This ensures the pasta maintains a pleasant bite and doesn’t get mushy when mixed with the rich sauce. Drain the pasta thoroughly and set aside so it’s ready to mingle with all the savory ingredients.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with half your Cajun seasoning. Cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and cooked through. Removing the chicken at this stage keeps it tender and juicy. Set it aside; you’ll return it to the pan soon!
Step 3: Cook the Shrimp
In the same skillet, add the shrimp and sprinkle the remaining Cajun seasoning on top. Because shrimp cook quickly, 2 to 3 minutes per side is enough until they’re pink and perfectly opaque. Set those aside with the chicken to keep warm.
Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics and Pepper
Using the flavorful bits left in the skillet, melt butter and gently sauté minced garlic along with the vibrant red bell pepper slices for 2 to 3 minutes. This step unlocks the pepper’s natural sweetness and fills your kitchen with a mouthwatering aroma.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything smoothly. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer so it thickens slightly. Then, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which deepens the sauce’s richness and adds a subtle nuttiness. Season with salt and pepper to your preference.
Step 6: Combine and Simmer
Now, add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything gently to coat each piece and noodle with the luscious sauce. Let it simmer for 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the dish heats thoroughly. You’re just about ready to dig in!
How to Serve Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving. This simple garnish adds a burst of fresh color and a slight herbal lift that beautifully balances the richness of the sauce. If you want a little crunch, toasted breadcrumbs or extra Parmesan on the side are fantastic additions.
Side Dishes
A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a wonderful counterpart to this creamy dish. Steamed or roasted vegetables such as asparagus or broccoli add freshness and texture to round out your meal perfectly. Garlic bread is also hard to resist alongside this pasta, especially for soaking up any leftover sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a casual gathering, serve this pasta in individual shallow bowls, showcasing the colorful shrimp and chicken on top. Fancy it up by plating the pasta in a nest, with each protein piece arranged artistically, finished with a delicate drizzle of sauce and a sprinkle of parsley. Using vibrant plates can also make the dish pop, enhancing the red and green hues beautifully.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making the dish even more delicious when reheated. Just be sure to use gentle heat to avoid drying out the creamy sauce.
Freezing
You can freeze this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe, but shrimp and cream-based sauces sometimes change texture after freezing. If you want to freeze, place it in a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers slowly on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Stir frequently to ensure even heating and to prevent the sauce from separating. This way, your pasta stays luscious and inviting.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta for this dish?
Absolutely! While fettuccine and penne work wonderfully, feel free to use linguine, rigatoni, or even spaghetti depending on what you prefer or have on hand. The sauce clings nicely to most pasta shapes.
How spicy is the Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe?
The spice level depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. It typically offers a moderate kick, but you can adjust by adding more seasoning or some crushed red pepper flakes if you love heat. For a milder version, reduce the Cajun seasoning accordingly.
Can I substitute the heavy cream for something lighter?
Yes, you can swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy. Adding a bit more Parmesan cheese can help retain some thickness in that case.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! It reheats well and stays flavorful for several days, making it a great option for make-ahead lunches or dinners. Just store components together and reheat gently to maintain creaminess.
Can I add vegetables to this pasta?
For sure! Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini make excellent additions and boost both nutrition and texture. Just sauté them before adding the cream sauce so they’re tender and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe is one of those dishes that bring a little excitement and warmth to your dinner table in no time. With its harmonious blend of spice, creaminess, and fresh ingredients, it’s destined to become a favorite for weeknights or special occasions. I can’t wait for you to try it and experience how effortlessly delicious and satisfying this recipe truly is!
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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting dish combining tender chicken and succulent shrimp cooked in a rich, creamy Cajun-spiced sauce served over fettuccine or penne pasta. Perfect for an easy yet impressive weeknight dinner, it offers a spicy, creamy twist on classic pasta with a delicious blend of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients
Protein
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced
- 8 oz large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Pasta
- 8 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Spices & Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
Dairy & Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Liquids
- ½ cup chicken broth
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine or penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well and set aside.
- Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the sliced chicken breasts with half of the Cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken for 4–5 minutes until browned on the outside and cooked through. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
- Cook the shrimp: In the same skillet, add the shrimp and season with the remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook shrimp for 2–3 minutes until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables: Melt the butter in the skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant and slightly softened.
- Make the creamy sauce: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring well to combine with the sautéed garlic and bell pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Add cheese and season: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Toss pasta and protein: Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat with the creamy sauce.
- Heat through and serve: Let the mixture simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to heat through completely. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot for a delicious Cajun-inspired pasta meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the Cajun seasoning according to your preferred heat level or add crushed red pepper flakes for extra spice.
- Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream if you want a lighter sauce.
- Add sliced mushrooms along with the bell pepper for additional flavor and texture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun-American
