Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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Imagine coming home to the enticing aroma of a rich, creamy Cajun dish waiting for you. That’s the magic of this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! Perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings, this dish combines tender, seasoned chicken with the delightful flavors of Cajun cuisine, all simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. It’s comforting, filling, and oh-so-easy to make — a true crowd-pleaser you’ll cherish.

What Makes This Recipe Special

This recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to create a delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Here are a few reasons why you’ll love it:

  • Convenience: With just a few minutes of prep and your trusty crock pot doing the work, you can set it and forget it!
  • Flavor Explosion: The combination of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and smoky paprika ensures every bite packs a punch of flavor.
  • Budget-Friendly: Using simple pantry staples and chicken breast makes this a wallet-friendly option without compromising taste.
  • Family Approved: This creamy pasta dish is sure to please both kids and adults, making it a fantastic choice for dinner.
  • Customizable: The recipe easily adapts to your taste—add more veggies or spice it up with additional Cajun seasoning!

“I made this for dinner last night, and everyone couldn’t stop talking about how flavorful and creamy it was! Definitely adding it to my regular rotation!”

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a breeze! Start by seasoning your chicken and browning it slightly for flavor retention. Layer it with colorful veggies in the slow cooker, let everything meld together while you’re busy with your day, and have a delightful meal waiting for you at dinnertime. You’ll have juicy chicken, flavorful veggies, and creamy pasta all in one dish.

Everything You Need for This Recipe

Gather your ingredients to whip up this delectable meal:

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  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Ingredient notes

Feel free to swap in different veggies based on what’s in season or available in your fridge! Zucchini, spinach, or even sun-dried tomatoes would all work nicely here.

Step-by-Step Directions

  1. Start by placing the chicken breasts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spices into the chicken for an even coating.

  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the chicken on both sides for about 2–3 minutes. This helps seal in those savory flavors.

  3. Transfer the chicken to the bottom of your slow cooker.

  4. Layer the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.

  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken broth.

  6. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.

  7. Once the chicken is cooked, remove and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.

  8. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

  9. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and then mix the cooked pasta into the crock pot, stirring until well combined with the sauce and chicken.

  10. Allow everything to heat together in the slow cooker on low for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Best Way to Serve

To elevate your serving experience, plate the creamy Cajun chicken pasta with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp side salad or crusty garlic bread. For an extra layer of flavor, consider offering a side of spicy garlic aioli or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely because it’s so good!), here’s how to handle them:

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
  • Freezing: To freeze, portion out the pasta in freezer-safe bags and store for up to three months. Just remember to separate the pasta if you want to reheat for the best texture.
  • Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until hot. Add a splash of cream if it seems a bit thick.

Pro Chef Tips

  • Don’t Rush the Browning: Taking a little extra time to brown the chicken will significantly enhance the flavor of your dish.
  • Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, start with less Cajun seasoning, and add more to taste!
  • Pasta Perfection: Cook the pasta just until al dente since it will absorb some of the sauce once combined.

Creative Twists

Feeling adventurous? Here are some ideas to play with the recipe:

  • Add Spinach: Toss in fresh spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost.
  • Swap Pasta Types: Use whole wheat, gluten-free pasta, or even zucchini noodles for a healthier twist.
  • Spicy Kick: Include some jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for an extra heat level.

Your Questions Answered

How long does it take to prepare?

Prep time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crock pot.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes! You can use frozen chicken without thawing, but you may need to increase the cooking time.

What’s the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For long-term storage, freeze portions in freezer bags for up to three months.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the heavy cream and Parmesan with your favorite dairy-free alternatives.

How do I make it spicier?

For more spice, increase the Cajun seasoning or add in some crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken before cooking.

Enjoy this delightful dish and share it with your family — it’s bound to become a favorite on dinner tables everywhere!

Print
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Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta


  • Total Time: 255 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Dairy-Free Option

Description

A rich and creamy Cajun dish prepared in a crock pot, featuring seasoned chicken, colorful veggies, and pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
  • 1 small onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 8 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the spices into the chicken for an even coating.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the chicken on both sides for about 2–3 minutes.
  3. Transfer the chicken to the bottom of your slow cooker.
  4. Layer the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the chicken broth.
  6. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
  7. Once cooked, remove and shred the chicken using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  8. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
  9. Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and mix into the crock pot.
  10. Allow everything to heat in the slow cooker on low for an additional 15-20 minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to swap in different veggies based on what’s available. This recipe is easily customizable and can be made dairy-free if desired.

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 240 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Slow Cooking
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: Cajun chicken, creamy pasta, crock pot recipe, easy dinner, family meal

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