Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that can easily become a family favorite. It’s simple to make, rich in flavor, and brings a touch of Cajun spice to your dinner table. The slow cooker does all the work, allowing you to enjoy your day while the ingredients meld together beautifully. With creamy cheese and tender chicken, this pasta dish is truly comforting.
Preparing Your Delicious 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 serving
- Crushed red pepper flakes, for added heat
Instructions
- Start by rubbing the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you have some extra time, marinate the chicken for 15–20 minutes to boost the flavors.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and pour in the chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is nice and tender.
- Once done, remove the chicken and shred it with forks. Then return it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese. Keep cooking on low for an additional 10–15 minutes until everything is melted and creamy.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta in a separate pot according to the package directions until it’s al dente. Drain the pasta and mix it into the slow cooker mixture.
- Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like it spicy.
Serving Up Your Cajun Delight
To serve your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, dish it out while it’s hot and steamy. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a burst of color. For an extra touch, offer more grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes at the table so everyone can customize their meal to their liking.
Saving Leftovers for Later
If you find yourself with leftovers, you’re in luck! Let the pasta cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stove with a little extra chicken broth to bring back its creamy texture.
Tips to Perfect Your Cajun Chicken Pasta
- For an even spicier kick, add sliced jalapeños or increase the amount of Cajun seasoning.
- Consider adding vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
- Use half-and-half or milk instead of cream cheese if you prefer a lighter dish.
Making It Your Own
Feel free to switch up the pasta shapes if you want. You can use bow-tie pasta or fusilli instead of penne or rotini for a fun twist. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp for a different seafood flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is typically high in protein and provides a good source of calcium from the cheese. Be mindful of portion sizes, especially if you’re watching calorie intake.
Dinner Ideas for the Whole Family
Pair this creamy pasta with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. For those who enjoy a crunch, add some toasted nuts or seeds to your salad.
Perfect Pairings to Enhance Flavor
Serve this dish with a chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, to complement the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning. On the non-alcoholic side, a refreshing iced tea works wonders.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to increase the cooking time by an hour when using frozen chicken.
What if I don’t have Cajun seasoning?
No problem! You can create your own mix using paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in the morning and let it cook all day, or make it the night before and reheat it for an easy weeknight dinner.
With so much flavor and a hands-off cooking method, Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is sure to be a hit at your next family dinner! Enjoy every delicious bite!
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- to taste Salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 0.5 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
- to taste Fresh parsley for garnish
- to taste Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
- to taste Crushed red pepper flakes for added heat
Instructions
Preparation
- Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, marinate the chicken for 15–20 minutes.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and pour in the chicken broth.
Cooking
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken and shred it with forks, then return it to the slow cooker.
- Stir in the cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese. Continue cooking on low for an additional 10–15 minutes until everything is melted and creamy.
- Cook the pasta in a separate pot according to package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta and mix it into the slow cooker mixture.
Serving
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for those who like it spicy.
