If you’re craving a dish that perfectly marries bold spices with creamy indulgence, look no further than this Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe. It’s a vibrant celebration of flavors where tender chicken and succulent shrimp get lovingly coated in a luscious, cheesy Alfredo sauce that has just the right kick from Cajun seasoning. With its rich texture, lively heat, and comforting pasta goodness, this recipe transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a mouthwatering feast that feels special every time you make it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting great results with this Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe couldn’t be easier because each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor and texture. From the protein-packed chicken and shrimp to the smooth cream cheese, every component brings something essential to the table.
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccine: The perfect pasta canvas for soaking up the rich Alfredo sauce.
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1″ pieces: Provides juicy, tender bites that absorb seasoning beautifully.
- 1/2 pound shrimp (thawed & peeled): Adds a fresh, slightly sweet seafood element that complements the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided): Brings that signature smoky, spiced heat that makes this dish unforgettable.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: For searing the chicken and shrimp to golden perfection.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and helps create a silky sauce base.
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream: The silky smooth ingredient that gives the sauce its classic Alfredo creaminess.
- 4 ounces cream cheese: Creates extra decadence and a velvety texture in the sauce.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth.
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Adds natural saltiness and umami to the creamy sauce.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and lift every flavor.
How to Make Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season Your Proteins
Start by taking the cream cheese out of the fridge so it softens naturally, or pop it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds to speed things up. Meanwhile, thaw and peel your shrimp if needed, and pat them dry. Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized 1-inch pieces. Sprinkle both the shrimp and chicken evenly with garlic powder and half of the Cajun seasoning. This step ensures your proteins will be bursting with flavor once cooked.
Step 2: Cook the Pasta
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the fettuccine until al dente, according to the package instructions. Perfectly cooked pasta is key to this dish because it holds the sauce beautifully without becoming mushy.
Step 3: Sear the Shrimp
Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once shimmering, add the shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes, flipping once so they plate up pink and tender. Remove the shrimp and set them aside. Quick searing locks in their juicy sweetness and gives a slight caramelized edge that’s irresistible.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
In the same skillet, add the chicken pieces and cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown the edges. Cooking the chicken until golden adds beautiful texture and builds more complex flavor layers before mixing with the sauce. Transfer the chicken to the plate with the shrimp when done.
Step 5: Create the Creamy Alfredo Sauce
Remove the skillet from the heat, then stir in butter, heavy cream, softened cream cheese, remaining Cajun seasoning, and minced garlic. Place the pan back on medium heat and stir gently for a few minutes until the cream cheese has melted completely. Let it bubble a little to thicken, making the sauce luxuriously smooth and rich.
Step 6: Add Cheese and Return Proteins
Stir the freshly grated Parmesan into the sauce to add that signature cheesy punch, then add the shrimp and chicken back to the pan. Let them warm together for a couple of minutes so every bite is perfectly coated and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting to your preference for that perfect balance.
Step 7: Combine with Pasta and Finish
Before draining your fettuccine, scoop a tablespoon or two of the hot pasta water and add it to the sauce if it feels too thick — this simple trick loosens the sauce just right. Drain the pasta, toss it into the skillet, and coat every strand with the creamy Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo sauce. Serve immediately and prepare for compliments!
How to Serve Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of extra grated Parmesan adds a salty, nutty finish, while chopped fresh parsley introduces a pop of color and fresh vibrancy that cuts through the richness. A quick squeeze of lemon over the top brings a bright citrus note that balances the creamy sauce gracefully.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to refresh your palate. Garlic bread or warm crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of the luscious sauce. Roasted or steamed vegetables make a great, colorful side to round out your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party vibe, serve the Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe in beautiful shallow bowls, topped with a dusting of smoked paprika for an extra visual and flavor punch. You can also layer the pasta and proteins in clear glass lasagna dishes for a stunning buffet-style presentation that showcases all the layers of goodness.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the pasta coated with sauce to prevent it from drying out, and it will reheat beautifully without losing texture.
Freezing
Because Alfredo sauce is cream-based, freezing is generally not recommended as the texture may separate upon thawing. If you do freeze, place leftovers in a tightly sealed container and use within 1 month for best results, being aware that reheated texture might be slightly different.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much. Stir frequently to prevent the dairy from curdling and to retain that smooth, creamy consistency you love in this Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta in this Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe?
Absolutely! While fettuccine is traditional for Alfredo dishes due to its wide, flat shape that holds sauce well, penne, linguine, or even bowtie pasta can work beautifully.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?
The spice level is moderate and can be adjusted to your taste by increasing or decreasing the amount of Cajun seasoning. Using a low-salt Cajun blend helps control sodium while keeping the flavor bold and smoky.
Can I substitute heavy cream with something lighter?
You can try half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but keep in mind the sauce may not be as thick and creamy. Adding a bit more cream cheese can help maintain richness with lighter dairy.
Is it okay to cook everything in one skillet?
Yes! Using one skillet for cooking the shrimp, chicken, and sauce keeps things simple and helps the flavors mingle perfectly with minimal cleanup.
How do I make sure the shrimp don’t become rubbery?
Cook the shrimp quickly over medium-high heat and avoid overcooking—about 3 minutes total should give you perfectly tender shrimp that are juicy and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way the bold Cajun spices dance with the creamy Alfredo sauce in this Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that saves the day when you want comfort food with a bit of a kick. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or indulging in a cozy solo dinner, give this recipe a try — I promise it will become one of your all-time favorites!
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Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
A creamy, flavorful Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo that combines tender, seasoned chicken and succulent shrimp in a rich homemade Alfredo sauce. This dish features perfectly cooked fettuccine tossed in a Cajun-spiced sauce with garlic, cream cheese, and parmesan, delivering a delicious Southern twist to a classic Italian favorite.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccine
Protein
- 2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 pound shrimp (31/40 size), thawed and peeled
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (divided; use low or no salt variety)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Fats
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Sauce
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese (½ block, preferably Philadelphia)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Prepare Cream Cheese: Remove cream cheese from the fridge at least 30 minutes prior, or microwave for 20-30 seconds to soften for easier incorporation into the sauce.
- Cook Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add fettuccine and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, reserving a tablespoon or two of pasta cooking water if desired to thin the sauce later.
- Season Proteins: Pat shrimp dry after thawing and peeling. Cut chicken into 1-inch pieces. Sprinkle both shrimp and chicken evenly with garlic powder and half the Cajun seasoning (1/2 tablespoon).
- Cook Shrimp: Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes, flipping once, until pink and just cooked through. Transfer shrimp to a plate.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, add chicken pieces and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally to brown edges and ensure cooked through. Transfer chicken to the plate with shrimp.
- Make Alfredo Sauce: Remove skillet from heat momentarily. Add butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, remaining Cajun seasoning, and minced garlic to the skillet. Return to medium heat and stir continuously for a couple of minutes until cream cheese is melted and sauce starts to combine.
- Thicken Sauce: Allow the sauce to gently bubble for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Finish Sauce: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Return shrimp and chicken to the skillet, warming them through in the sauce for 2 minutes. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Toss with Pasta and Serve: Optionally add a splash of reserved hot pasta water to the skillet to loosen the sauce if desired. Toss the drained fettuccine in the skillet with the Alfredo sauce, shrimp, and chicken. Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a squeeze of lemon if desired.
Notes
- Softening the cream cheese before starting ensures it incorporates smoothly without lumps.
- Leaving shrimp tails on is optional, but can add presentation appeal and flavor.
- Using low or no salt Cajun seasoning keeps sodium levels in check; adjust salt at the end to taste.
- A splash of reserved pasta water can help adjust sauce consistency without diluting flavor.
- Garnishing with lemon juice adds a bright contrast to the rich, creamy sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southern American, Italian-American Fusion
