Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
If you’re looking for a dinner that’s comforting, full of zippy flavor, and downright effortless, Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is exactly what you need. This dish takes tender chicken, a creamy and spicy sauce, and colorful veggies, and lets your slow cooker work its magic while you get on with life. The result? A Louisiana-inspired pasta that’s perfect for busy weeknights, easy entertaining, or whenever you crave a big bowl of something sensational. With just a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients, you’ll enjoy a Cajun classic that tastes like it simmered all day — because it actually did!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe earns its place. Each one brings something essential, whether it’s bold spice, creamy richness, or vibrant color. Gather these kitchen heroes for absolutely mouthwatering results:
- Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: Lean and hearty, they soak up all those Cajun flavors and cook to tender perfection in the crock pot.
- Cajun Seasoning: This blend is the soul of the dish, delivering bold, peppery spice and a touch of smokiness; add more if you like a little extra kick!
- Olive Oil: A quick sear in olive oil adds depth and keeps the chicken juicy, even after hours of slow cooking.
- Red & Yellow Bell Peppers: These vibrant peppers not only look beautiful but add sweet, mellow flavor to balance the Cajun spice.
- Red Onion: Sliced onion melds into the sauce, giving a subtle sweetness and wonderful aroma.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the entire dish with that irresistible, savory zing you crave in any good pasta.
- Diced Tomatoes (with juice): Canned tomatoes bring juiciness and a hint of tang, helping to create the sauce’s base.
- Low-Sodium Chicken Broth: This keeps things moist and adds savory flavor without overdoing the salt.
- Cream Cheese: Cubed and melted in, cream cheese gives the sauce its luscious, creamy texture.
- Heavy Cream: For that extra indulgent, silky-smooth finish that clings to every bite of pasta.
- Pasta (Penne or Rotini): Cooked separately so it maintains the perfect texture; both shapes catch the sauce beautifully.
- Parmesan Cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and helps finish the sauce with a flourish.
- Chopped Parsley or Green Onions (for garnish): Fresh and green, these brighten up each serving right before it hits the table.
How to Make Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken
Start by giving those chicken breasts a generous rub with Cajun seasoning, really pressing it in so every bite pulls in that wonderful heat and flavor. If you have a few extra minutes, sear the chicken quickly in some hot olive oil. This is optional, but it adds tons of flavor and locks in juiciness — you’ll be glad you did!
Step 2: Layer the Veggies and Chicken in the Crock Pot
Next, transfer the seasoned (and, if you seared, browned) chicken breasts into your crock pot. Scatter the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, red onion, and minced garlic over the top. Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes — juice and all — and the chicken broth. This vibrant mix will cook down into a beautifully savory, spicy base for your Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Pop the lid on your slow cooker and let it all work its magic. Cook everything on low for 5 to 6 hours or on high for 2 1/2 to 3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is so tender it shreds apart with just two forks — which is exactly what you’ll do next!
Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Add Creamy Goodness
Carefully shred the chicken right in the crock pot, mixing it gently into all those savory juices. Add the cream cheese cubes and pour in the heavy cream, then stir until it melts beautifully into the sauce, giving it that signature creamy Cajun richness.
Step 5: Add Pasta and Finish the Dish
Stir in your freshly cooked pasta, tossing until every noodle is coated in saucy, spicy, creamy goodness. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top and give it one last gentle toss. Before serving, pile on the parsley or green onions for a deliciously fresh finish — and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Garnishes
A sprinkle of grated Parmesan and a handful of chopped parsley or green onions brings a burst of color, freshness, and just a little extra bite to Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta. Feel free to add a dash of extra Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes if you want an extra punch of heat on top!
Side Dishes
This hearty pasta loves the company of lighter sides. A crisp green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette or garlic bread for scooping up the creamy sauce are always crowd-pleasers. If you’re going full Cajun, serve with a side of steamed green beans or buttery corn on the cob.
Creative Ways to Present
You don’t need to fuss much, but for special occasions, try swirling portions onto plates and topping each with a flourish of fresh herbs and an extra shaving of Parmesan. Serve family-style from the crock pot for a casual, festive vibe, or pile the pasta into a large pasta bowl flanked by rustic bread for soaking up every drop of that incredible sauce.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta keeps beautifully in the fridge. Transfer any extras to airtight containers (let it cool slightly first) and store for up to 4 days. The flavors get even more delicious as they meld overnight.
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, freeze the fully cooled pasta in single-serve containers for easy lunches or quick dinners. Just be sure to use freezer-safe containers, and enjoy within 1 to 2 months for the best texture and flavor. The creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing, but will come back together when reheated.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen up the sauce. Stir well and add a touch more Parmesan if you’d like—it helps bring back that creamy texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of chicken?
Absolutely! While chicken breasts are classic here for their lean texture, boneless skinless chicken thighs work just as well and bring a richer flavor to the Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Is this recipe really spicy?
It’s flavorful with a good kick, but you can completely control the heat. Start with less Cajun seasoning if you’re spice-sensitive, or add more for extra heat—taste and adjust as you go!
Can I add extra veggies?
Go for it! Mushrooms, spinach, or even zucchini are perfect additions. Add heartier veggies at the beginning and more tender ones, like spinach, near the end so they don’t overcook.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Just swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta to make Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta accessible for everyone at your table.
Can I prep this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble everything except for the cream cheese, cream, and cooked pasta in your crock pot insert the night before. Store it covered in the fridge, then pop it into your slow cooker in the morning and finish with the creamy elements and pasta just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta truly brings a taste of Louisiana home, without the fuss or hours at the stove. Give it a try, play with the spiciness, and make it your own—you’re just a slow cooker away from a dish your family and friends will rave about!
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Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in a creamy and flavorful dish with this Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta. Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and savory spices come together with pasta in a rich cream sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Veggies:
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 small red onion (sliced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
Sauce:
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese (cubed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Others:
- 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta (cooked separately)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped parsley or green onions (for garnish)
Instructions
- Rub the chicken: Season chicken with Cajun seasoning. Sear in a skillet.
- Cook: Place chicken in crock pot with veggies, tomatoes, and broth. Cook until chicken is tender.
- Shred and add sauce: Shred chicken, add cream cheese and cream. Mix in cooked pasta.
- Finish: Sprinkle with Parmesan, garnish, and serve.
Notes
- You can customize with mushrooms, spinach, or shrimp.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to taste.
- Great for meal prep and leftovers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours (low) or 3 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 125mg
