This Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a one-pot wonder filled with tasty chicken, creamy sauce, and just the right kick of Cajun spice. It’s comforting and oh-so-satisfying!
I love how I can just toss everything in the pot and let it cook. Less fuss in the kitchen means more time to binge-watch my favorite shows! Who’s with me? 😄
Plus, serving it with some garlic bread makes every bite even better. It’s a cozy meal that’s perfect for weeknights when you want something hearty but easy to make!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless is the way to go for this recipe. If you’re short on time, shredded rotisserie chicken works just as well, saving you some prep time!
Cajun Seasoning: This blend gives the dish its signature flavor. If you can’t find it, a mix of paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and dried herbs will work. Always adjust to your taste if you enjoy it spicier!
Cream Cheese: Adds creaminess to the sauce. You could swap it for Greek yogurt for a lighter version, but it won’t be as rich.
Pasta: While penne is great for holding onto that creamy sauce, feel free to experiment with other pasta like fusilli or rigatoni if you have those on hand!
Bell Peppers: I love using both green and red for color and sweetness. You can easily substitute them with frozen mixed peppers or even other vegetables like zucchini.
How Do I Cook Perfectly Tender Pasta in the Crock Pot?
Cooking pasta in a crock pot can be tricky. To ensure it’s perfectly tender, follow these steps closely:
- Add the uncooked pasta near the end of the cooking time to avoid overcooking.
- Stir the pasta in well after adding, making sure it’s submerged in the creamy sauce.
- Check for doneness after 30 minutes and stir every 10 minutes to prevent sticking.
Taking these simple steps will guarantee your pasta turns out deliciously al dente!
Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1.5 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 (8 oz) package of cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 12 oz uncooked penne pasta
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes for prep work and 4-5 hours of slow cooking on low (or 2-3 hours on high). Just let the crock pot do its magic while you enjoy your day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Seasoning the Chicken:
Start by rubbing the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, and some salt and pepper. Make sure every piece is nicely coated in those bold flavors!
2. Preparing the Crock Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken into the crock pot. It’s the star of the show! Next, add the diced tomatoes, chopped green and red bell peppers, and minced garlic right on top.
3. Adding the Creamy Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then add the softened cream cheese on top. This will create a flavorful, creamy sauce for your pasta!
4. Slow Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. You want it to be fall-apart good!
5. Shredding the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. It should come apart easily—don’t hesitate to get in there!
6. Mixing in the Pasta and Cheese:
Return the shredded chicken back to the pot. Now, add your uncooked penne pasta and shredded cheddar cheese. Give everything a good stir to combine.
7. Final Cooking:
Cover and cook on high for another 30-40 minutes until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
8. Taste and Serve:
Once the pasta is cooked and the dish is creamy, taste it and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun chicken pasta made effortlessly in the crock pot! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts! Just make sure to cook it on high for the full 3 hours instead of low. The chicken should reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F for best results.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that using milk may result in a slightly less creamy texture, so you might want to add a bit more cream cheese to maintain richness.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover Cajun chicken pasta in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of broth or milk if it seems too thick.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. Just remember to chop them into bite-sized pieces. If adding more moist vegetables, reduce the liquid slightly to keep the sauce from becoming too watery.
