Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine succulent shrimp and tender chicken, perfectly seasoned with a vibrant blend of Cajun spices, all nestled in a creamy, dreamy pasta sauce. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

While not steeped in centuries of tradition, Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta draws inspiration from the rich culinary heritage of Louisiana. Cajun cuisine, born from the ingenuity of French-Acadian settlers, is known for its bold flavors and resourceful use of local ingredients. This dish takes those principles and elevates them, creating a modern classic that’s both comforting and exciting.

What makes this pasta so irresistible? It’s the symphony of flavors, the delightful contrast of textures, and the sheer convenience of it all. The creamy sauce, infused with the smoky heat of Cajun spices, coats every strand of pasta, while the juicy shrimp and chicken provide a satisfying protein punch. It’s a dish that’s equally perfect for a weeknight family dinner or a weekend gathering with friends. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, meaning you can enjoy restaurant-quality flavor without spending hours in the kitchen. Get ready to discover your new favorite pasta dish!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Chicken:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Shrimp:
• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Pasta:
• 1 pound fettuccine pasta
• 8 cups water
• 1 tablespoon salt
• For the Sauce:
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup chopped bell pepper (I like to use a mix of red and green)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (or more, to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparing the Chicken and Shrimp:

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated with the spices.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook the chicken in batches. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
3. Prepare the Shrimp: In the same bowl (no need to wash it!), toss the shrimp with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, salt, and pepper. Again, ensure the shrimp is evenly coated.
4. Cook the Shrimp: Add the seasoned shrimp to the same skillet (you might need a little more oil if the pan is dry) and cook for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until the shrimp turns pink and opaque. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as it can become rubbery. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.

Cooking the Pasta:

1. Boil the Water: Fill a large pot with 8 cups of water and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.
2. Cook the Pasta: Once the water is boiling, add the fettuccine pasta. Cook according to the package directions, usually around 8-10 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente (firm to the bite).
3. Drain the Pasta: Once the pasta is cooked, drain it in a colander. Do not rinse the pasta, as the starch helps the sauce adhere to it. Set the drained pasta aside.

Making the Cajun Cream Sauce:

1. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet you used to cook the chicken and shrimp (this adds extra flavor!), melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and chopped bell pepper. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
2. Make a Roux: Sprinkle 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour over the sautéed vegetables. Cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the flour is incorporated and the mixture starts to turn a light golden brown. This step is crucial for thickening the sauce, so don’t skip it!
3. Add the Chicken Broth: Gradually pour in 2 cups of chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Continue whisking until the sauce is smooth and thickened.
4. Simmer the Sauce: Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until it has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add the Cream and Cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
6. Season the Sauce: Stir in 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning (or more, to taste), 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. I like mine with a little extra kick!
7. Add the Parsley: Stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley. This adds a pop of freshness and color to the sauce.

Assembling the Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta:

1. Combine the Ingredients: Add the cooked fettuccine pasta, cooked chicken, and cooked shrimp to the skillet with the Cajun cream sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
2. Heat Through: Heat the pasta mixture over low heat for about 2-3 minutes, or until everything is heated through. Be careful not to overcook the pasta, as it can become mushy.
3. Serve Immediately: Serve the Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta immediately. Garnish with extra chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Tips and Variations:

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning and red pepper flakes to control the spice level of the dish. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less Cajun seasoning and omit the red pepper flakes. If you like it extra spicy, add more of both!
• Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as mushrooms, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes. Sauté them along with the onion and bell pepper.
• Cheese: You can use other types of cheese in the sauce, such as mozzarella, provolone, or Asiago.
• Pasta: While fettuccine is the classic choice for this dish, you can use other types of pasta, such as linguine, penne, or rotini.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce before adding the pasta, chicken, and shrimp.
• Leftovers: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave.
• Cream Cheese: For an even creamier sauce, add 2-4 ounces of cream cheese along with the heavy cream. Make sure the cream cheese is softened before adding it to the sauce.
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Add 1/2 cup of oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, drained and chopped, to the sauce for a burst of flavor.
• Andouille Sausage: For an even more authentic Cajun flavor, add 1/2 pound of sliced andouille sausage to the skillet along with the chicken and shrimp.

Enjoy your delicious Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta! I hope you love it as much as I do!

Conclusion:

This Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta isn’t just another weeknight dinner; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! From the creamy, spicy sauce to the perfectly cooked pasta, succulent shrimp, and tender chicken, every bite is a symphony of textures and tastes. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try because it’s incredibly satisfying, surprisingly easy to make, and endlessly adaptable to your personal preferences. It’s the kind of dish that will have your family and friends begging for seconds and asking for the recipe.

Why is this Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta a must-try? Because it delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the restaurant price tag or the need for advanced culinary skills. The combination of Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked protein creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover chicken or shrimp, making it a budget-friendly option as well.

Looking for serving suggestions? I love to serve this pasta with a simple side salad and some crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. A crisp, dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs perfectly with the creamy, spicy flavors. For a lighter option, you could serve it with steamed green beans or asparagus.

And speaking of variations, the possibilities are endless! Want to kick up the heat? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce. Prefer a different type of pasta? Feel free to substitute penne, rotini, or even fettuccine. You could also add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrients. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and shrimp and add some grilled tofu or tempeh. You can even add some andouille sausage for an extra layer of authentic Cajun flavor. If you’re watching your calorie intake, you can use light cream cheese or Greek yogurt in place of the heavy cream. Another great variation is to add some sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and acidity. Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own!

I’m so confident that you’ll love this Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta that I urge you to give it a try. It’s a dish that’s sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. Once you’ve made it, I’d love to hear about your experience! Did you make any modifications? What did you serve it with? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and comments on social media using #CajunShrimpChickenPasta or tag me in your posts. I can’t wait to see your creations and hear your feedback. Happy cooking! I know you’ll love this Cajun Shrimp Chicken Pasta as much as I do. It’s a guaranteed winner!