why make this recipe

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a fantastic choice for a busy weeknight dinner. It offers rich flavors without requiring much effort. The slow cooker allows the chicken to become tender and juicy while soaking up the delicious spices. Plus, the creamy sauce and colorful veggies not only make this dish tasty but also visually appealing.

how to make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

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, for garnish
Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish

Directions:

Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can marinate the chicken for 15–20 minutes if you have time.
Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and chicken broth.
Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
Once cooked, remove the chicken and shred it with forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
Add the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until melted and creamy. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
Meanwhile, cook the pasta separately according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and stir it into the slow cooker mixture.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra cheese, or crushed red pepper flakes.

how to serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Serve this dish warm right from the slow cooker. It pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread. You can top each plate with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor and color.

how to store Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

To store leftovers, let the pasta cool down first. Place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should be good for 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
For added flavor, mix in some diced tomatoes or corn while cooking.
If you want a bit of a crunch, try adding some chopped green onions when serving.

variation

You can substitute the chicken with shrimp for a different protein source. Just add the shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent overcooking. Another alternative is to use whole wheat pasta for a healthier option.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by 1-2 hours.

Can I make this recipe without pasta?
Absolutely! You can serve the creamy chicken mixture over rice or quinoa instead of pasta.

Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on the amount of Cajun seasoning you use. You can adjust it to make the dish milder if needed.