Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo is a bold and creamy pasta dish that combines tender chicken, succulent shrimp, and a rich Parmesan Alfredo sauce with a kick of Cajun spice. This flavorful one-pan meal is a restaurant-quality dinner you can make at home in under 40 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold Cajun Flavor: Perfectly seasoned shrimp and chicken bring heat and depth to every bite.
Creamy and Comforting: Rich Alfredo sauce made with cream, butter, and Parmesan coats every strand of pasta.
Hearty and Balanced: A satisfying combination of protein, carbs, and dairy.
Quick Weeknight Meal: Ready in just 35 minutes, ideal for busy evenings.
Impressive Yet Simple: Elegant enough for entertaining, easy enough for any home cook.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Chicken breast, sliced into strips
Shrimp, peeled and deveined
Olive oil
Cajun seasoning
Garlic, minced
Heavy cream
Chicken broth
Parmesan cheese, grated
Fettuccine or pasta of choice
Unsalted butter
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

directions

Cook the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken strips, season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through (about 5–7 minutes). Remove from skillet and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp:
In the same skillet, add the shrimp. Cook until pink and opaque (about 3–4 minutes). Remove and set aside with the chicken.
Make the Sauce:
Lower heat to medium. Add butter to the skillet and sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stir to combine, and let simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
Add the Cheese:
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
Combine:
Return the cooked chicken, shrimp, and pasta to the skillet. Toss until everything is well coated in the sauce.
Serve:
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Calories: 590 kcal per serving

Variations

Extra Spicy: Add crushed red pepper flakes or hot sauce for more heat.
Vegetable Boost: Add sautéed bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms to the sauce.
Seafood Swap: Substitute shrimp with scallops or crab meat.
Low-Carb Option: Serve over spiralized zucchini or cauliflower rice.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating is possible but may affect the texture of the shrimp.

FAQs

Can I use pre-cooked shrimp?

Yes, but add them at the end just to heat through—overcooking will make them rubbery.

Can I make this dish without shrimp?

Absolutely. Simply double the chicken or add another protein such as sausage.

What’s the best pasta for this recipe?

Fettuccine holds up well to creamy sauces, but penne, linguine, or spaghetti also work.

Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?

It has a moderate heat level. Adjust the amount or choose a mild blend if you prefer less spice.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can use whole milk, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. For a compromise, try half-and-half.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

Don’t overheat the cream, and add the cheese gradually while stirring continuously.

What can I use instead of Parmesan?

Grated Pecorino Romano or Asiago can substitute, though they have a stronger flavor.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the components (meat and sauce) separately and combine before serving.

How do I peel and devein shrimp?

Use a paring knife or shrimp deveiner to make a shallow cut along the back and remove the vein with the tip.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free pasta and ensure your Cajun seasoning is gluten-free.

Conclusion

Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Chicken Alfredo is a luxurious, flavor-packed pasta dish that delivers both heat and comfort. With tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and a rich creamy sauce, it’s a perfect way to elevate your dinner routine with minimal effort and maximum satisfaction. Ideal for weeknights or entertaining, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite.