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Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is a deliciously bold and comforting dish featuring tender shrimp and chicken breast cooked in a velvety, slightly spicy Cajun cream sauce. Perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or special occasion, it combines vibrant spices with rich creaminess, pasta, and fresh vegetables for a satisfying meal that brings the flavors of New Orleans right to your table.

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Proteins

  • 1 lb peeled and deveined shrimp
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Pasta

  • 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta

Seasonings & Sauces

  • 2–3 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (plus extra if needed)
  • 1 ½ cups heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Proteins: Season the shrimp and diced chicken breast generously with Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, cook the shrimp until pink and slightly crisp around the edges, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove and set aside with the chicken.
  2. Sauté Vegetables and Garlic: Using the same skillet, add a little more olive oil if needed. Add diced bell peppers and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently.
  3. Create the Creamy Sauce: Pour heavy cream into the skillet, stirring to deglaze and lift any flavorful browned bits. Allow the cream to simmer gently until it thickens slightly. Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra Cajun seasoning if desired.
  4. Combine Pasta and Protein: Meanwhile, cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently to coat. Fold the cooked shrimp and chicken back into the pan, allowing everything to warm through and blend for 1-2 minutes.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the pasta for color and freshness. Serve hot directly from the skillet for maximum comfort and satisfaction.

Notes

  • Use fresh or high-quality frozen shrimp for the best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook shrimp and chicken to avoid toughness; they will finish cooking in the sauce.
  • Season gradually and taste as you go to balance creaminess and spice.
  • Reserve some pasta cooking water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
  • Customize heat by adjusting cajun seasoning or adding fresh jalapeños.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: Cajun / Creole / Southern
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free pasta)

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 550 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 35 g
  • Saturated Fat: 18 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 38 g
  • Cholesterol: 210 mg

Keywords: Creamy Cajun Shrimp Pasta, Chicken Pasta, Cajun Cream Sauce, Spicy Pasta, New Orleans Recipe, Seafood Pasta, Cajun Chicken, Comfort Food