There's nothing quite like the bold flavors of Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta to spice up your dinner routine. This dish brings together tender shrimp, juicy chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, all coated in a rich, creamy Cajun sauce that's packed with just the right amount of heat. The combination of smoky, spicy, and savory flavors will make this a repeat favorite at your dinner table.

I first fell in love with this dish on a trip to New Orleans, where Cajun cuisine reigns supreme. The blend of spices, fresh seafood, and comforting creaminess instantly won me over. Back home, I knew I had to recreate it, and after some experimenting, I found the perfect balance of spice, cream, and savory goodness.

Why You'll Love This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Get ready to fall in love with your new go-to pasta dish. This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is not only packed with flavor but also surprisingly easy to make.

First, it’s a one-pan wonder (aside from boiling the pasta). This means fewer dishes and an easy cleanup, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

The spice level is customizable, so whether you like it mild or fiery hot, you can adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste.

It’s also restaurant-quality at home. The creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce rivals anything you’d find at a fancy Cajun bistro—without the hefty price tag.

And let’s not forget the versatility. This dish works beautifully with different proteins, pasta shapes, and even dairy alternatives for those who need a lighter version.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each one plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and heartiness.

Pasta: I recommend penne or fettuccine, as they hold onto the creamy sauce well. However, you can use any pasta shape you prefer.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Thighs add extra juiciness, while breasts provide a leaner option.

Shrimp: Use large, deveined shrimp, preferably fresh. If using frozen shrimp, thaw them completely before cooking to avoid excess moisture.

Cajun Seasoning: A good homemade or store-bought Cajun seasoning is key. If using store-bought, watch for salt content, as some blends can be very salty.

Cream and Parmesan: The sauce gets its luxurious texture from heavy cream and freshly grated Parmesan cheese, making it rich and indulgent.

How To Make This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Creating this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is simpler than you might think. Let me walk you through the process step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta in a large pot of salted boiling water. Drain and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

In a large skillet, heat some olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, then add it to the pan. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked through. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

In the same pan, add more oil if needed, then toss in the shrimp, seasoned with Cajun spices. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and slightly curled. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Lower the heat and add butter, garlic, and diced onions, letting them sauté until fragrant. Then, pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, scraping up the browned bits from the pan for extra flavor.

Stir in Parmesan cheese and let the sauce simmer until it thickens. Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the pan, tossing everything together to coat in the creamy sauce.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, they store well! Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken, but a splash of cream or broth when reheating will bring it back to life.

For longer storage, you can freeze this dish for up to 2 months. However, be aware that the cream-based sauce may change slightly in texture when thawed and reheated.

Reheat leftovers gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can overcook the shrimp and dry out the sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is how adaptable it is. Here are some ways you can switch it up:

Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or swap in coconut milk for a dairy-free version.

Go all seafood: Skip the chicken and use only shrimp, or add scallops or crab meat for extra seafood goodness.

Switch up the pasta: Try whole wheat pasta, gluten-free pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a low-carb version.

Add veggies: Bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms would make a delicious and nutritious addition.