why make this recipe
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a wonderful dish for busy days. It brings together the flavors of Cajun spices and creamy cheese with ease. Just toss everything in the slow cooker, and let it do the work for you. This meal is not only easy to make but also very flavorful. The combination of spices and creamy sauce makes it a hit with both kids and adults.
how to make Crock Pot Creamy 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
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crushed red pepper flakes
Directions
- Rub chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Optional: marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add cream cheese and Parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
- Cook the pasta separately according to package directions until al dente. Drain and stir it into the slow cooker mixture.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley, extra cheese, or red pepper flakes.
how to serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve this dish hot right out of the slow cooker. You can add a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a touch of color. Extra Parmesan cheese is great if you want more flavor. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes on your plate.
how to store Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers, let the pasta cool down to room temperature. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it in a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or milk to help bring back the creamy texture.
tips to make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Marinating the chicken for 15–20 minutes can enhance the flavor.
- Feel free to add more veggies like mushrooms or spinach to boost the nutrition.
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to meet your spice preference.
- For an even creamier dish, consider adding a bit more cream cheese.
variation
If you want a lighter version, you can use turkey breast instead of chicken. You can also try using whole wheat pasta for a healthier option. Adding cooked shrimp instead of chicken offers a delicious seafood twist to this recipe.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts. Just increase the cooking time by an hour if you are cooking on low.
2. What can I substitute for cream cheese?
You can use Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a different texture.
3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare all the ingredients and store them in the fridge the night before. Just place them in the slow cooker in the morning and set it to cook!
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Rub chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Optional: marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.
- Remove the chicken, shred it with forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add cream cheese and Parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
- Cook the pasta separately according to package directions until al dente. Drain and stir it into the slow cooker mixture.
- Serve hot, garnished with parsley, extra cheese, or red pepper flakes.