Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a delicious twist on classic Alfredo pasta, featuring juicy chicken and tender shrimp spiced up with a flavorful Cajun seasoning. The creamy Alfredo sauce coats every bite, blending perfectly with the smoky, slightly spicy taste of the seafood and chicken. It’s a dish that balances rich and bold flavors, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels both fancy and comforting. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken and shrimp a nice kick, and I always add a little extra for myself because I enjoy that warm spice. It’s quick to prepare on a busy night, but it still feels like a treat. Plus, using both chicken and shrimp makes it feel like a special meal that everyone can enjoy.
My favorite way to serve this is with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and a side of garlic bread to soak up every bit of that creamy sauce. It’s perfect for dinner parties or just a relaxing meal at home. Whenever I make it, the leftovers are just as good, which makes me happy the next day too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Fettuccine Pasta: This wide, flat pasta is perfect for holding onto creamy Alfredo sauce. You can substitute with linguine or even spaghetti if that’s what you have.
Chicken & Shrimp: Using both adds great flavor and texture. If you prefer, swap shrimp for scallops or just double the chicken. For a vegetarian take, try grilled mushrooms instead of meat.
Cajun Seasoning: This brings the signature spicy, smoky kick. Store-bought works well, but you can make your own with paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. Adjust the heat to your taste.
Heavy Cream & Parmesan Cheese: These create the rich Alfredo sauce. For a lighter version, use half-and-half and reduce the cheese, but expect a thinner sauce. Freshly grated Parmesan always melts better!
Red Bell Pepper & Garlic: They add color and savory flavor. If you want more veggies, sliced mushrooms or spinach would be great additions.
How Do You Cook Chicken and Shrimp Perfectly Without Overcooking?
Chicken and shrimp cook fast, so timing is key to keep them juicy and tender.
- For Chicken: Cut into bite-sized pieces to cook evenly. Sear over medium-high heat until golden, about 5-6 minutes total. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if needed.
- For Shrimp: Cook just 2 minutes per side until pink and opaque. Shrimp cook quickly and become rubbery if overdone, so watch closely.
- Cook chicken and shrimp separately, then combine after making the sauce to avoid overcooking.
Cooking them separately also helps you get a nice sear on both, adding flavor and texture to your dish.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet – perfect for searing chicken and shrimp and making the sauce all in one pan.
- Large pot – to boil the pasta without crowding.
- Colander – for easy draining of the pasta.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring the sauce without scratching your pan.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your seasoning and cream just right.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for andouille sausage to add smoky, spicy depth that matches the Cajun theme.
- Use penne instead of fettuccine for a different pasta shape that holds sauce nicely.
- Add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies and texture.
- Mix in a pinch of smoked paprika or chipotle powder for more smoky heat.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta and Proteins:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Sauce:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley (plus more for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, 15 minutes to cook, and you can serve right away. In just around 25 minutes total, you’ll have a creamy, flavorful dish ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Pasta:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the fettuccine and cook according to package directions until al dente. Once done, drain the pasta and set it aside.
2. Cooking the Chicken:
Season the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
3. Cooking the Shrimp:
Season the shrimp with the remaining 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Add the shrimp and cook for about 2 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set aside with the chicken.
4. Making the Alfredo Sauce:
Lower the heat to medium. Melt the butter in the skillet, then add the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 2-3 minutes. Pour in the heavy cream and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy and smooth.
5. Combining Everything:
Add the cooked pasta, chicken, and shrimp back into the skillet with the creamy sauce. Toss everything together gently to coat the pasta and proteins evenly with the Alfredo sauce. Stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and add salt and pepper as needed.
6. Serving:
Serve the Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo hot, garnished with extra fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese, if you like. Enjoy your delicious, creamy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, just make sure to thaw the shrimp completely before cooking. Thaw them overnight in the fridge or place the sealed bag in cold water for quicker thawing. Pat dry before seasoning to avoid extra moisture.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk mixed with a little butter for a lighter version. Keep in mind the sauce may be less rich and creamy, so add the cheese slowly to help thicken it up.
Can I Make Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! Prepare the sauce, chicken, and shrimp separately and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk to bring back the creamy texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly and prevent the sauce from separating.
