Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you’re looking for an easy dinner that bursts with flavor, you can’t go wrong with creamy Cajun chicken pasta. This dish embodies everything you desire in a weeknight meal: it’s comforting, packed with bold spices, and oh-so-simple to prepare—especially when the slow cooker takes care of all the hard work! I first stumbled upon this recipe during a busy week, and it quickly became a family favorite. The creamy texture paired with the zesty Cajun seasoning transforms the everyday chicken and pasta into something truly special.
Reasons to fall in love with creamy Cajun chicken pasta
There are countless reasons to whip up this dish. It’s amazing how easily the flavors meld together in the slow cooker, making it the ultimate hands-off dinner solution. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’re providing a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that your whole family will adore! Plus, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion, whether it’s a busy weeknight or a laid-back weekend gathering.
"This creamy Cajun chicken pasta was a hit with my kids! It’s the perfect blend of spices without overwhelming them, and they went back for seconds!" – Sarah, a satisfied home cook.
Preparing Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: The Cooking Process Explained
Let’s break down how this recipe works. You’ll start by seasoning your chicken and allowing it to soak up those delicious Cajun spices. Then, it’s all about tossing everything into your slow cooker and letting it work its magic! Shredding the chicken after cooking adds a nice touch, allowing it to absorb even more flavors. The final steps include stirring in the creamy goodness and cooking your pasta separately. Easy peasy!
What you’ll need
To bring this flavorful dish to life, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1/2 yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
For those looking to add a bit more heat, consider using spicy Cajun sausage or swapping out the bell peppers for a spicier pepper variety!
Step-by-step instructions
Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these straightforward steps:
- Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you have the time, marinate the chicken for 15-20 minutes to really lock in the flavors.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Once done, carefully remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and creamy. Allow it to cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and mix it into the slow cooker mixture.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added spice.
Serving suggestions
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta can be the star of the show on its own, but you can elevate the meal with a fresh green salad or some crusty garlic bread. Need something lighter? Pair it with roasted veggies or a side of steamed broccoli to balance out the richness. For a touch of elegance, sprinkle chopped green onions or a dash of lemon juice over the final dish just before serving!
How to store & freeze
Leftovers? No problem! Store any remaining pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore its creamy consistency. For longer storage, you can freeze the creamy mixture without the pasta. Just make sure to store it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to use, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, reheat, and cook fresh pasta to serve!
Pro chef tips
- To avoid overcooking the pasta, remember to cook it just al dente, as it will continue to absorb liquid when it’s mixed into the creamy chicken mixture.
- Make sure to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Depending on the Cajun seasoning you use, you might want to add more salt or pepper.
- If you’re pressed for time, using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can speed up the process. Just toss it in at the end after you’ve melted the cream cheese and Parmesan.
Creative twists
Feeling adventurous? Here are some fun twists to this classic dish:
- Swap the chicken for shrimp to create a delightful seafood version.
- Add in some sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the Cajun spices perfectly.
- For a lighter dish, try using cauliflower noodles instead of pasta.
Common questions
How long does this take to prepare?
This recipe has a hands-on prep time of about 20 minutes, while the slow cooker does the bulk of the work, requiring 6-7 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
Can I use other pasta varieties?
Absolutely! Penne and rotini are great choices, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand—farfalle or whole wheat pasta would work wonderfully, too.
Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?
Yes! You can use dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy and flavorful finish.
Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate the chicken for 15-20 minutes if time allows.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Carefully remove the chicken and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese until everything is melted and creamy. Cook on low for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and mix it into the slow cooker mixture.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper flakes for added spice.
