Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a creamy, spicy pasta dish that brings together tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and rich Alfredo sauce with a little kick. The Cajun seasoning adds a bold, smoky flavor that makes this dish stand out from the usual creamy pastas, giving it a perfect balance of heat and comfort.
I love making this dish when I want something that feels special but is still easy to put together on a weeknight. The combination of the creamy sauce with the spices from the Cajun seasoning makes every bite exciting, and the shrimp and chicken add just the right amount of protein without feeling too heavy. I like to sprinkle a bit of fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
My favorite way to enjoy Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is with a simple green side salad or some garlic bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. It’s the kind of meal that always makes everyone at the table smile and want seconds, so it’s perfect for sharing with friends or family. Plus, leftover Alfredo is just as good the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cajun Seasoning: This is the star for that bold, spicy flavor. If you can’t find it, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and dried oregano to make your own. Adjust the cayenne to control the heat.
Chicken & Shrimp: Using both adds great texture and flavor. You can swap chicken for turkey or skip it for a shrimp-only dish. Frozen shrimp works fine—just thaw and pat dry first for better searing.
Heavy Cream & Milk: This combo creates a creamy yet light Alfredo sauce. For a lighter option, try half-and-half or use only milk, but the sauce won’t be as thick.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan melts smoothly and brings that classic Alfredo taste. Pre-grated cheese can be used but may not melt as well.
How Can I Get the Perfect Creamy Alfredo Sauce?
Making Alfredo sauce that’s creamy and thick can seem tricky, but here’s a simple way to do it:
- Start by gently warming the butter and garlic—don’t let it brown to avoid bitterness.
- Add the cream and milk slowly and bring to a gentle simmer to prevent the sauce from separating.
- Whisk in the Parmesan cheese gradually while the sauce is warm but not boiling. This helps it melt smoothly.
- Season with salt and pepper last—taste often to avoid over-salting.
Keep the heat low once the cheese is in, and stir often to keep the sauce smooth and rich. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up. This tip keeps your sauce velvety while coating the pasta perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot – perfect for boiling pasta evenly without sticking.
- Large skillet – roomy enough to cook chicken, shrimp, and make the sauce all in one pan.
- Tongs – great for tossing pasta with sauce and easily turning shrimp and chicken.
- Whisk – helps blend the Alfredo sauce smoothly without lumps.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – for chopping chicken and garlic safely and quickly.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for smoked sausage for a smoky, spicy twist that pairs well with Cajun seasoning.
- Stir in sautéed bell peppers and onions to add sweetness and extra crunch.
- Use Parmesan mixed with Romano cheese for a sharper, tangier sauce.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes in the sauce for more heat if you like it spicy.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Pasta:
- 8 oz fettuccine pasta
Protein:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
Seasonings and Oils:
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Ingredients:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Garnish:
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing and cooking the pasta and proteins, and about 10-15 minutes making the creamy Cajun Alfredo sauce and combining everything together. It’s a quick yet impressive meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Pasta:
Begin by cooking the fettuccine pasta according to the package instructions until it’s al dente. Once cooked, drain the pasta and set it aside for later use.
2. Prepare and Cook the Chicken:
In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning to coat them evenly. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook it until nicely browned and fully cooked, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Cook the Shrimp:
Toss the shrimp with the remaining 1 teaspoon of Cajun seasoning. In the same skillet, add the last tablespoon of olive oil. Cook the shrimp for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside with the chicken.
4. Make the Alfredo Sauce:
Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the skillet, letting it melt. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring everything together and bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Slowly whisk in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
5. Combine and Serve:
Return the cooked chicken and shrimp to the skillet and gently toss them in the Alfredo sauce. Add the cooked fettuccine pasta and stir to coat it well with the creamy sauce. Once everything is warmed through and combined, divide the pasta onto serving plates. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese if you’d like. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo!
Can I Use Frozen Shrimp for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to thaw the shrimp fully before cooking. The best way is to leave them in the fridge overnight or place them in a sealed bag and submerge in cold water for about 15-20 minutes. Pat them dry before seasoning and cooking to get a nice sear.
How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Simply substitute the fettuccine with gluten-free pasta. Cook it according to package instructions, as cooking times can vary. The rest of the recipe stays the same and remains deliciously creamy and flavorful.
Can I Prepare Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken, shrimp, and sauce separately and store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove and toss with freshly cooked pasta for best texture.
What Side Dishes Pair Well with Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo?
This dish goes great with a simple green salad, steamed or roasted veggies, or some garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce. These sides add freshness and balance to the rich, spicy flavors.
