If you have a craving for bold flavors combined with creamy comfort, this Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe is about to become your new go-to dinner. Picture tender strips of chicken and succulent shrimp, both kissed with smoky Cajun seasoning, swirling through a luscious, cheesy sauce loaded with vibrant red and yellow bell peppers. It’s the perfect harmony of spice, creaminess, and a touch of zest that dances on your taste buds, delivering a satisfying dish that’s as impressive as it is easy to make. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe brings the essence of Cajun soul food right to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe shines because of its simple, fresh ingredients that each play a crucial role: the Cajun seasoning provides that signature kick, the bell peppers add a sweet crunch and bright color, and the heavy cream creates a dreamy sauce that pulls everything together. Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand before you start cooking:
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): The perfect base for sautéing, adding richness and depth without overpowering the flavors.
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts (2, sliced into strips): Tender and lean, these provide the hearty protein that carries the dish.
- Large shrimp (½ pound, peeled and deveined): Adds a sweet, ocean-fresh element that matches beautifully with the spices.
- Cajun seasoning (1 tablespoon plus extra for shrimp): The heart and soul of this dish, bringing warmth, spice, and complexity.
- Paprika (1 teaspoon): For added smokiness and a subtle earthiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in perfect balance.
- Fettuccine or penne pasta (12 oz): Choose your favorite pasta shape that will soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Helps sauté the veggies with a silky finish.
- Red bell pepper (1, sliced): Adds sweetness and a vibrant pop of red color.
- Yellow bell pepper (1, sliced): Balances the sweetness with sunny brightness and crunch.
- Garlic cloves (3, minced): Gives the sauce its inviting aroma and subtle bite.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates the luscious, creamy base that envelops every ingredient.
- Chicken broth (½ cup): Adds depth and moisture without heaviness.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (½ cup): Melts into the sauce, giving it that signature cheesy tang.
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional): A fresh, herbal finish to brighten each serving.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Pasta
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add your pasta and cook until just tender according to the package instructions – usually about 9 to 11 minutes. Drain and set aside, but don’t forget to reserve a little pasta water; it can be handy if your sauce needs thinning later.
Step 2: Season and Cook the Chicken
While the pasta is cooking, season your sliced chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the chicken strips. Cook each side for 4 to 5 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and has a wonderful sear. Once done, remove the chicken and set aside to rest.
Step 3: Sauté the Shrimp
In the same skillet, lightly coat the shrimp with a bit more Cajun seasoning. Add them to the pan and cook for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque – be careful not to overcook or they’ll get rubbery. Remove the shrimp and keep them alongside the chicken for later.
Step 4: Cook the Bell Peppers and Garlic
Now melt 1 tablespoon of butter in your skillet. Toss in the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, cooking for about 3 to 4 minutes until they soften but still retain some crunch. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant, making your kitchen smell irresistible.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Sauce
Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, stirring to combine and bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Let the sauce thicken just a bit, becoming rich and velvety, perfect for coating the pasta and proteins.
Step 6: Combine Everything
Add the drained pasta back into the skillet and toss to coat it in that gorgeous sauce. Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the pan, stirring gently until everything is heated through and evenly mixed. This is where the flavors truly marry, creating that unforgettable Cajun magic.
How to Serve Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh herbal brightness that complements the spice and creaminess beautifully. If you like, a little extra Parmesan on top never hurts to elevate the cheesy goodness.
Side Dishes
This dish is so flavorful and filling it can stand alone, but you can serve it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in lemon vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up every last drop of sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like asparagus or green beans also pair wonderfully here.
Creative Ways to Present
Try plating the pasta in individual shallow bowls, allowing those vibrant peppers and juicy shrimp to shine on top. For a fun twist, garnish with a slice of lemon on the side for a light squeeze of acidity that brightens each bite. Adding a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top enhances that smoky note even more.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe, cool any leftovers quickly and transfer them to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay tasty for up to 3 days without losing that saucy charm.
Freezing
While this dish tastes best fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags and make sure to press out as much air as possible. To avoid mushy pasta, slightly undercook it when prepping if you plan to freeze.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream, milk, or chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it warms. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and maintain that silky texture. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring every minute or so for even heating.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked shrimp in the Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
Yes! Using pre-cooked shrimp is a great way to save time. Simply add them at the very end to warm through, so they don’t get rubbery or overcooked.
How spicy is this Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe?
The spice level is moderate thanks to the Cajun seasoning, but you can always adjust it to your taste by using less or more seasoning or choosing a milder blend if preferred.
Can I substitute the heavy cream with a lighter option?
Absolutely! For a lighter dish, substitute half of the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk, though the sauce will be slightly less rich.
What type of pasta works best?
Fettuccine or penne works best because their shapes hold onto the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use your favorite pasta if you prefer something different.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The original recipe uses regular pasta, but you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to make the dish gluten-free while keeping all the great flavors intact.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe is a delicious way to bring bold, southern-inspired flavors to your dinner table without spending all night in the kitchen. The combination of spicy seasoning, creamy sauce, and fresh veggies creates a dish that satisfies every craving. I promise once you try it, it will quickly become a beloved favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a go and enjoy every savory bite!
Print
Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Pasta recipe features tender chicken strips and juicy shrimp seasoned with Cajun spices, tossed with sautéed bell peppers in a rich, creamy Parmesan sauce. Perfectly cooked fettuccine or penne pasta brings it all together into a flavorful, comforting main course with a spicy kick.
Ingredients
Proteins
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts, sliced into strips
- ½ pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, plus extra for shrimp
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or penne pasta
Sauce and Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine or penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Season and cook the chicken: Season the sliced chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and golden brown. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Season and cook the shrimp: Lightly season the peeled and deveined shrimp with Cajun seasoning. Using the same skillet, cook the shrimp over medium heat for 1 to 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
- Sauté vegetables and make the sauce: Melt butter in the skillet. Add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers and sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until they are tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add liquids and cheese: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly while stirring continuously.
- Toss pasta with sauce: Add the cooked pasta directly to the skillet with the sauce and toss well so the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Combine protein and serve: Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet. Stir everything together until heated through and well combined. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your preferred spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce the richness.
- You can use pre-cooked shrimp to save time—just add them at the end to warm through instead of cooking from raw.
