This Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo combines tender chicken, juicy shrimp, and a rich, creamy sauce with a spicy Cajun kick. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings, this recipe delivers a restaurant-quality dish made at home. The flavorful Cajun seasoning adds a smoky, spicy element to the creamy Alfredo sauce, while the fettuccine ties everything together in a comforting, hearty meal. This one-pan dish is a must-try for anyone looking to create a satisfying and impressive dinner.

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked fettuccine
2 chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1/2 pound shrimp (31/40 size), thawed and peeled
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, divided (use a low-salt or no-salt variety)
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy/whipping cream
4 ounces cream cheese (1/2 block, softened)
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients
- Soften cream cheese by letting it sit at room temperature for 30+ minutes or microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
- Boil a large pot of salted water and cook the fettuccine until al dente according to package instructions.
- If shrimp are frozen, thaw them under cool running water, then pat dry. Leave tails on if desired.
Season and Cook Proteins
- Sprinkle chicken and shrimp with garlic powder and 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add shrimp and cook for about 3 minutes, flipping once. Remove shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, cook chicken pieces for 5-6 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Remove chicken and set aside with shrimp.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Take the skillet off the heat and add butter, heavy cream, softened cream cheese, remaining 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, and minced garlic. Return the skillet to medium heat and stir until the cream cheese melts into the sauce.
- Let the sauce simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. Stir in Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
Combine and Serve
- Return shrimp and chicken to the skillet, letting them heat through. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
- Optionally, stir in a splash of hot pasta water (about 1-2 tablespoons) to thin the sauce slightly.
- Toss drained fettuccine with the sauce until evenly coated.
Garnish
- Serve immediately, topped with more Parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, and a squeeze of lemon if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Combines succulent shrimp, tender chicken, and creamy Alfredo sauce with a bold Cajun kick.
Perfect for quick dinners or special occasions with minimal prep time.
Customizable to suit various dietary preferences or ingredient availability.

Tips

Cream Cheese Tip: Soften cream cheese ahead of time for a smooth sauce.
Cajun Seasoning: Use a no-salt blend to control sodium levels.
Cooking Shrimp: Be careful not to overcook the shrimp; they only need a few minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein Options: Substitute chicken with turkey or shrimp with scallops.
Spice Level: Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred heat level.
Pasta: Swap fettuccine with linguine, spaghetti, or penne.
Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese for a lactose-free version.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
It’s best served fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the proteins.

What can I use instead of cream cheese?
Mascarpone or a thick, plain yogurt can work as substitutes for cream cheese.

Serving

Serve hot with a side of garlic bread and a fresh Caesar salad.
Pair with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon.

Suggestions

Top with red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Garnish with freshly chopped chives or basil for added flavor.
For a complete meal, serve alongside roasted vegetables or a light soup.