Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

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Introduction

Indulge in the bold, comforting flavors of this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta, a restaurant-quality dish that’s surprisingly easy to make at home. Tender chicken and juicy shrimp are tossed in a luscious, spicy Cajun cream sauce with al dente pasta for a meal that’s rich, satisfying, and packed with flavor.

The secret to this dish lies in the perfectly balanced sauce—creamy from heavy cream and cream cheese, sharp from Parmesan, and boldly seasoned with Cajun spices. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners yet impressive enough for date nights or entertaining.

Ingredients

(Serves 4-6)

Protein & Pasta:

  • 8 oz (225g) fettuccine (or penne/linguine)
  • 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed
  • 1 lb (450g) medium shrimp (31/40 count), peeled and deveined
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter

Cajun Seasoning Blend:

  • 2 tsp Cajun seasoning (salt-free preferred)
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

Sauce:

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
  • 4 oz (115g) cream cheese, cubed
  • ½ cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • ½ cup (120ml) pasta water

Garnish (Optional):

  • Fresh parsley, chopped
  • Lemon wedges
  • Red pepper flakes

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

  1. Cook pasta in salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

Step 2: Season & Sear Proteins

  1. Toss chicken and shrimp separately with Cajun seasoning blend.
  2. Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook chicken for 5–6 minutes until browned. Remove and set aside.
  3. Add 1 tbsp oil and 1 tbsp butter to the same skillet. Cook shrimp for 1–2 minutes per side until pink. Remove and set aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

  1. In the same skillet, melt 1 tbsp butter. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Reduce heat to medium. Add heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan, whisking until smooth.
  3. Stir in pasta water as needed to thin the sauce.

Step 4: Combine & Serve

  1. Return chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Add cooked pasta, tossing to coat.
  2. Garnish with parsley and lemon wedges. Serve immediately.

Tips for Success

✔ Control the Heat: Use salt-free Cajun seasoning to adjust spice and salt levels.
✔ Don’t Overcook Shrimp: They cook quickly—remove as soon as they turn opaque.
✔ Cream Cheese Hack: Soften at room temperature for smoother blending.
✔ Pasta Water: The starch helps the sauce cling to the noodles.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

✅ 30-minute meal with gourmet flair.
✅ Creamy, spicy, and savory—all in one bite.
✅ Customizable: Swap proteins (sausage, scallops) or add veggies (spinach, bell peppers).
✅ Leftovers reheat well (add a splash of cream when reheating).

Conclusion

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a foolproof way to bring vibrant, restaurant-style flavor to your table. With its velvety sauce and perfectly spiced proteins, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Fire up the stove and treat yourself to this irresistible comfort food tonight!

Pair With: A crisp green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

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