Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful dish that combines tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and creamy pasta for a satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. This dish is perfect for busy weekdays since it requires minimal prep time and lets your slow cooker do all the work, giving you a hearty and comforting meal with little hassle.
Why Make This Recipe
There are several reasons you should consider making Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. First and foremost, it delivers an explosion of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. The Cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick, while the creamy sauce balances it out perfectly. Secondly, this recipe is incredibly easy to prepare. With just a bit of mixing in the beginning, your slow cooker will take care of the cooking, making it a hugely convenient option for families on the go. Finally, this dish can be tailored to accommodate various dietary preferences. Feel free to swap out pasta types or add vegetables to suit your needs.
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Follow these steps to create your own delicious Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
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Directions:
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Begin by placing the chicken breasts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to ensure even coating.
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In a large skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the chicken on both sides for about 2-3 minutes per side. This step helps seal in the flavors.
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Remove the chicken and place it in the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken in the crock pot.
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Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth.
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Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
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Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the crock pot. Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the crock pot.
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Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.
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In the meantime, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the crock pot and stir well to combine with the sauce and chicken.
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Allow everything to heat together in the crock pot for another 15-20 minutes on the low setting to ensure it’s thoroughly warmed.
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Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
Pro Tips for Success Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
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Chicken Options: If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier flavor.
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Seasoning Adjustment: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your taste. Start with a smaller amount if you’re unsure, as you can always add more later.
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Pasta Variations: While penne is recommended, you can use any pasta shape you like. Just adjust the cooking time based on the type you choose.
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Veggie Add-Ins: Feel free to incorporate your favorite vegetables like zucchini or spinach. Just add them during the last hour of cooking to avoid overcooking.
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Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the lid from the slow cooker for the last 30 minutes of cooking to allow some moisture to evaporate.
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Serving Size: This recipe is flexible, so you can easily double it for larger gatherings or meal prep.
Flavor Variations Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
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Spicy: For an extra kick, add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños.
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Cheesy: Toss in a variety of cheeses like mozzarella or cheddar along with the Parmesan for a richer flavor.
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Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like thyme or basil for a fragrant touch that complements the dish wonderfully.
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate a dash of liquid smoke to infuse a deeper smoky flavor into the dish.
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Experiment with Creams: Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
Serving Suggestions Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta pairs beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with crusty rolls or biscuits to soak up the creamy sauce, making for a delightful dining experience. Don’t forget to sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor before serving!
Storage and Freezing Instructions Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, allow the pasta to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the dish in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth to help revive the sauce.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
| Nutrients | Amount |
|————|———-|
| Calories | 420 |
| Protein | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 49g |
| Fat | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
FAQ About Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I use frozen chicken breasts in this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just note that the cooking time may vary, and it’s best to cook on high for about 4-5 hours if your chicken is frozen.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can replace the chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or chickpeas. For a tasty vegetarian sauce, add mushrooms for a meatier texture.
What should I do if the sauce is too runny?
If your sauce turns out too runny, you can thicken it by cooking on high without the lid for about 30 minutes. Alternatively, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the sauce to thicken up.
Can I adjust the spiciness of the dish?
Certainly! You can mild down the heat by reducing the amount of Cajun seasoning or omitting spices like cayenne. On the other hand, if you like it spicy, feel free to add more heat with hot sauce or crushed red pepper.
What type of pasta works best with this dish?
While penne is recommended for its ability to hold onto the sauce, you can use any pasta you prefer, such as fettuccine, rotini, or even gluten-free alternatives!
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish that brings the flavors of the South to your dining table with ease. The convenience of a slow cooker combined with the robust taste of Cajun spices makes this recipe a must-try for anyone looking to spice up their meal rotation. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this comforting dish is sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy this luscious pasta and happy cooking!
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Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 255 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish combining tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and creamy pasta, perfect for busy weekdays.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in a large bowl, drizzle with olive oil and seasonings, and rub to coat.
- In a skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the chicken for about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Transfer the chicken to the bottom of the slow cooker.
- Add the bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth.
- Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken, shred it, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan until the cheese is melted.
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and add to the slow cooker.
- Mix everything until combined and heat together for another 15-20 minutes on low.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
You can customize the dish by adjusting the seasoning, using different pasta shapes, and adding vegetables. For thicker sauce, remove the lid during the last 30 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 240 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
