Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table. This recipe is simple to make and offers a delicious blend of spices and creamy flavors. With the perfect balance of chicken, pasta, and vegetables, it provides a wonderful meal option for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The beauty of this dish lies in its ease of preparation; all you need is a slow cooker to create a flavorful, satisfying dinner. Let’s explore why this dish is perfect for your next meal.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to consider making Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. First and foremost, it is incredibly easy to prepare. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to focus on other tasks or spend time with family while dinner cooks. This is perfect for those who lead busy lives but still want to enjoy a homemade meal.
Another reason to make this dish is the amazing flavor. The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, while the creamy sauce beautifully balances the spices. The combination of chicken, pasta, and colorful bell peppers not only looks appealing but also adds to the overall flavor profile. Moreover, it is easily customizable. You can modify the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand, making it a versatile choice for any cook.
Lastly, this dish is comforting and filling. It is great for feeding a crowd or having leftovers for lunch the next day. The creamy sauce coats the pasta and chicken perfectly, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Let’s dive into how to make this fabulous dish.
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes if possible.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker along with the sliced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, sliced onion, and chicken broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces and return to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente, then drain and stir it into the slow cooker mixture.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and crushed red pepper flakes if desired.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Creating this delicious Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is easy and requires simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
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 topping
- Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat
Directions
Prepare the Chicken: Start by rubbing the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you have time, let it marinate for 15–20 minutes to enhance the flavor.
Add Ingredients to Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in your slow cooker. Next, add the sliced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, sliced onion, and chicken broth.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Shred the Chicken: Once the cooking time is up, remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return it to the slow cooker.
Add Creamy Ingredients: Add the cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker. Stir well until the mixture is melted and creamy. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low until heated through.
Cook the Pasta: While the sauce is cooking, prepare the pasta separately according to the package directions. Make sure to cook it until al dente. Drain and then stir the pasta into the slow cooker mixture.
Serve: Serve your delicious Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hot. Garnish with fresh parsley, a sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes for a little extra spice if desired.
How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
When it comes to serving this delicious dish, presentation can make a big difference. Scoop the creamy pasta onto plates and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan cheese will make it look even more appealing. To add a bit of heat, offer crushed red pepper flakes on the side, so your guests can adjust the spice level to their liking.
Pair this creamy pasta with a fresh garden salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc, can also complement the flavors beautifully. Enjoy sharing this heartwarming dish with family and friends!
How to Store Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, storing them properly is important to maintain taste and quality. Let the dish cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator where it should last for about 3–4 days.
If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing. Place the leftovers in a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. The dish should stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2–3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Marinating the Chicken: If you have the time, marinate the chicken in the spices for a stronger flavor. The longer you leave it, the more pronounced the taste.
Use Low-Sodium Broth: Using low-sodium chicken broth helps you control the saltiness of the dish. You can always add more salt if needed but starting with less is a good approach.
Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables, such as zucchini or mushrooms, to make the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
Adjust the Spiciness: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning. Alternatively, you can add more crushed red pepper flakes for those who enjoy extra heat.
Make it Cheesy: If you love cheese, feel free to add more Parmesan or even include other cheese types like mozzarella or Monterey Jack for a cheesier version.
Variation
While the original recipe is delicious as is, there are several variations you can try. For instance, if you prefer a more traditional Italian flavor, you could swap out the Cajun seasoning for Italian herbs like oregano and basil. You could also add sun-dried tomatoes or spinach for added flavor and texture. Additionally, using a different type of pasta, such as fettuccine or farfalle, can also give the dish a new twist.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! They will take a little longer to cook, so ensure the slow cooker is set on low for 8–9 hours instead of 6–7 hours if using frozen chicken.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply substitute the regular pasta with gluten-free pasta. There are many great gluten-free options available that will work well in this dish.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To make the dish spicier, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning. You can also add extra crushed red pepper flakes when serving for those who like it hot.
With these instructions and tips, you’re ready to make your own Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and the comfort of a homemade meal!