Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo
This creamy Cajun Chicken and Shrimp Alfredo is a comforting dish with tender chicken, sweet shrimp, and a rich Alfredo sauce, perfect for an enjoyable dinner.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 8 ounces uncooked fettuccine Cook according to package instructions.
Protein
- 2 pieces chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
- 1/2 pound shrimp (31/40 size) thawed & peeled Pat dry after thawing.
Seasonings
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning Use a low or no salt variety.
- 1/2 tablespoon Cajun seasoning For use in sauce.
- Salt & pepper to taste
Fat
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For cooking protein.
- 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness to the sauce.
Sauce Base
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 4 ounces cream cheese Softened before use.
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese For added flavor in sauce.
Instructions
Preparation
- Take the cream cheese out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before starting to cook.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Cooking
- Cook fettuccine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Thaw shrimp under cool running water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
- Season shrimp and chicken with garlic powder and half a tablespoon of Cajun seasoning.
- Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned shrimp and cook for about three minutes, then set aside.
- Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Transfer to plate with shrimp.
- Remove skillet from heat and add butter, heavy cream, cream cheese, remaining Cajun seasoning, and minced garlic.
- Return the skillet to the stove over medium heat, stirring gently until the cream cheese is fully incorporated.
- Allow sauce to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in grated parmesan cheese until melted and well blended.
- Add cooked shrimp and chicken back into the pan to warm through.
- Add a splash of hot pasta water if needed for sauce consistency, then toss drained pasta with the sauce.
Serving
- Serve hot with additional parmesan and chopped parsley, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.
Notes
For best results, ensure cream cheese is softened and adjust seasoning to taste. Serve alongside a fresh salad or bread.