There's nothing quite like the bold flavors of Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta to liven up your dinner routine. This dish brings together succulent shrimp, tender chicken, and a rich, spicy cream sauce that clings to every bite of pasta. The best part? It comes together in under 40 minutes, making it the perfect choice for busy weeknights.

I first made this recipe when craving a restaurant-style Cajun pasta but wanted something homemade and budget-friendly. One bite in, and I knew this would become a regular in our meal rotation. It's hearty, indulgent, and packed with just the right amount of heat to keep things interesting.

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

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious. This creamy Cajun pasta is packed with bold flavors and creamy goodness in every bite.

First off, it’s incredibly quick and easy. With a cook time of under 40 minutes, you can have a restaurant-quality meal on the table faster than takeout.

The Cajun seasoning gives this dish a smoky, slightly spicy kick that balances beautifully with the creamy sauce. If you love big flavors, this pasta won’t disappoint.

It’s also versatile. You can adjust the spice level, swap out proteins, or even add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to make it your own.

Best of all, it’s a one-pan wonder (aside from the pasta). Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, which is always a win on busy nights.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of this dish comes from simple ingredients that work together to create a perfectly balanced, creamy, and spicy pasta dish.

Cajun seasoning is the key to that signature smoky, slightly spicy flavor. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and black pepper. Adjust the spice level based on your preference.

Shrimp and chicken bring a variety of textures and flavors to the dish. Use large shrimp for a juicy, plump bite and boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs for tender, flavorful meat. Be sure to pat them dry before cooking to achieve a good sear.

Heavy cream and Parmesan cheese form the base of the rich, velvety sauce. The cream helps mellow out the spice, while the Parmesan adds a salty, umami depth to the dish.

Pasta is the foundation that soaks up all the creamy, spicy sauce. Penne or fettuccine works best, as their shapes hold onto the sauce well, but you can substitute with any pasta you have on hand.

Garlic and onions add extra depth and flavor to the sauce, enhancing the Cajun spices and making the dish even more aromatic and delicious.

How To Make This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta

Cooking this creamy Cajun pasta is easier than you might think. Let’s walk through the process step by step.

Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions. Be sure to salt the water generously—it helps flavor the pasta. Once cooked, drain and set aside, reserving a cup of pasta water for later.

While the pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning and cook until golden brown and fully cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

In the same skillet, add a little more oil and toss in your shrimp. Cook for about 2-3 minutes per side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove and set aside with the chicken.

Next, reduce the heat to medium and add butter, garlic, and onions to the skillet. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, stirring continuously until a smooth sauce forms. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen it up.

Return the cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing it in the sauce to coat evenly. Add back the chicken and shrimp, stirring everything together until well combined.

Let the pasta simmer for a minute to absorb all the flavors, then remove from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, you’re in luck—this pasta stores well and tastes just as good the next day!

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce will thicken as it sits, so you may need to add a splash of milk or cream when reheating.

To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a bit of milk or cream to bring back the sauce’s creamy consistency. Avoid microwaving on high, as it can make the shrimp rubbery.

Freezing is not recommended since the creamy sauce can separate upon thawing, altering the texture.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how adaptable it is. Here are some fun ways to switch it up:

Want to make it spicier? Add extra cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for even more heat.

Looking for a lighter version? Swap the heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lower-fat alternative.

Prefer a different protein? Substitute the shrimp and chicken with sausage, tofu, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian-friendly option.

Need to make it gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and double-check that your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

For an extra veggie boost, toss in some sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to add color and nutrients.

This Creamy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Pasta is guaranteed to become a favorite in your household. Whether you stick to the original recipe or put your own spin on it, one thing’s for sure—you’re in for a flavor-packed, comforting meal!