Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious twist on the classic creamy Alfredo pasta. This dish combines tender pieces of chicken and juicy shrimp, all seasoned with a kick of Cajun spices. The sauce is rich and cheesy, wrapping every bite in a smooth, comforting blanket of flavor.
I love making this meal when I want something that feels a little special but doesn’t take forever to cook. The Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of spice without overpowering the creamy sauce, and the chicken and shrimp cook quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner. I find that using fettuccine noodles works great here, but you can easily swap in your favorite pasta.
When I serve this dish, I like to add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top and a side of garlic bread to soak up all the delicious sauce. It’s always a hit with family and friends because it’s both filling and full of flavor. Plus, cleaning up is pretty simple, which is a nice bonus when you’re hungry and ready to eat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken & Shrimp: Using both gives you great texture and flavor variety. If you want, swap chicken for turkey or even tofu for a veggie twist.
Cajun Seasoning: This spice mix brings the dish to life. If you don’t have a Cajun mix, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and oregano for a quick version.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan Cheese: These make the sauce smooth and cheesy. For a lighter option, try half-and-half instead of cream and use a bit less cheese.
Fettuccine Pasta: I like fettuccine because it holds the sauce well. Penne or linguine also work if that’s what you have.
How Do You Cook Chicken and Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Both chicken and shrimp cook fast, but shrimp can get rubbery if overcooked, and chicken dry. Here’s how I manage it:
- Pat dry well; moisture slows browning.
- Season just before cooking to keep flavors fresh.
- Cook chicken over medium-high heat until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Remove immediately.
- Cook shrimp quickly for 2-3 minutes each side; they’ll turn pink and opaque when done.
- Use the same pan to keep flavors and fats, helping the sauce come together.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – for boiling the pasta; big enough to let noodles cook evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet or frying pan – perfect for cooking chicken, shrimp, and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Tongs or pasta fork – great for tossing pasta and mixing everything without breaking noodles.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the seasoning, cream, and cheese amounts just right for a balanced sauce.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – helps you stir gently without scraping the pan’s surface.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap shrimp for scallops or crab meat for a different seafood taste that pairs well with Cajun spices.
- Use smoked sausage with chicken instead of shrimp to add smoky depth and hearty texture.
- Add bell peppers or spinach for a fresh crunch and extra color in the creamy sauce.
- For more heat, sprinkle in extra cayenne or red pepper flakes to kick up the spice level.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pasta and Protein:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Sauce:
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 to 40 minutes from start to finish. Most time is spent cooking the pasta and proteins, and making the creamy sauce. It’s a relatively quick and totally tasty meal perfect for weeknights or when you want something special without the fuss.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Fill a large pot with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside while you prepare the chicken and shrimp.
2. Prepare the Chicken and Shrimp:
Pat the chicken and shrimp dry with paper towels. Season them evenly with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, plus salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook 2 to 3 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Remove shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
3. Make the Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Add the butter to the skillet. Once melted, sauté the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms for 2 to 3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Continue cooking and stirring until the sauce thickens, about 3 to 5 minutes.
4. Combine Everything:
Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss them together to coat evenly with the creamy sauce.
Add the cooked fettuccine to the skillet, gently mixing everything so the pasta is well coated with sauce and combined with the protein.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Plate your Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo, sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley, and add extra Parmesan cheese if you like. Serve hot and enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the shrimp before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or quickly under cold running water in a sealed bag. Pat them dry to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a bit of flour or cornstarch to help thicken the sauce. Keep in mind the sauce may be a little less rich and creamy.
Can I Make Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare all components and store separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, warm gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a creamy texture without separating.
