Description
Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights. Slow-cooked chicken, bold Cajun seasoning, and a rich, cheesy sauce combine with tender pasta for an irresistible dish. This easy-to-make recipe is packed with flavor and can be customized with different proteins, spice levels, and pasta options.
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 bell peppers (red, yellow, or green), sliced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 12 oz penne or fettuccine pasta
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken – Season chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning.
2. Add to Crock Pot – Place the chicken in the slow cooker with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and chicken broth.
3. Cook on Low – Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours (or on high for 2-3 hours) until chicken is tender and fully cooked.
4. Shred the Chicken – Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
5. Make it Creamy – Stir in heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and well incorporated.
6. Cook the Pasta – Boil pasta separately according to package instructions. Drain and add to the crock pot, stirring until well combined.
7. Final Touches – Taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan before serving.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, let the pasta sit in the crock pot for 5-10 minutes before serving.
- Adjust spice levels by adding more or less Cajun seasoning or mixing in a mild seasoning blend.
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken in butter before adding it to the slow cooker.
- Best served fresh, but leftovers taste even better as the flavors meld!
