Description
This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta combines bold Cajun spices, creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta into a rich, flavorful dish. Perfect for an easy family dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional, depending on Cajun seasoning)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, softened and cubed
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces pasta (penne or fettuccine recommended)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken
- Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Sear the Chicken (Optional)
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and sear chicken for 2–3 minutes per side.
- Add Ingredients to Crock Pot
- Place chicken in the slow cooker. Add diced peppers, onion, garlic, and chicken broth. Stir gently.
- Slow Cook
- Cook on low for 4–6 hours or on high for 2–3 hours until chicken is tender.
- Prepare the Sauce
- Remove chicken and shred with two forks. Add heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese to the crock pot, stirring until smooth.
- Cook the Pasta
- Prepare pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Combine & Serve
- Return shredded chicken to the crock pot. Add cooked pasta and toss until coated. Garnish with parsley and extra Parmesan, if desired.
Notes
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days or freeze for 2 months.
- Reheating: Add a splash of broth or milk for creaminess when reheating.
- Customizations:
- Use gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
- Swap chicken with shrimp, sausage, or plant-based proteins.
- Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or broccoli for variety.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–6 hours on low / 2–3 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Cajun/Creole
Keywords: Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Creamy Cajun Pasta Slow Cooker Cajun Pasta Family Dinner Recipes Easy Meal Prep Recipes