This Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a warm and spicy delight! You’ll love how tender the chicken gets while cooking slowly with creamy sauce and pasta.
I usually make this on busy days when I need a quick meal. Just toss everything in, set it, and go! By dinner, you’ll have a hearty dish that tastes like a restaurant treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they stay tender and absorb flavors. You can substitute with chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor or even use precooked shredded chicken to save time.
Cajun Seasoning: This blend adds the signature spiciness. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can mix paprika, cayenne pepper, garlic powder, and oregano to create a homemade version.
Pasta: I choose penne because its shape holds sauce well. However, you could use another type of pasta like fusilli or rotini, but make sure to adjust your cooking time based on the pasta type.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or evaporated milk can be used. Coconut cream is a great dairy-free alternative that still provides creaminess.
How Do I Get My Chicken to Be Tender and Flavorful?
Cooking the chicken perfectly in a crock pot is essential. Here’s how to do it right:
- Before cooking, coat the chicken with Cajun seasoning evenly. This ensures maximum flavor.
- Layer the veggies around the chicken to infuse their taste as they cook together.
- Cook on low for several hours; low and slow is key to tender chicken. If you are crunched for time, use high heat but keep an eye on it.
- After shredding the chicken, returning it to the pot helps it soak up more of the sauce.
These steps will ensure your chicken comes out tender and bursting with flavor!
parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and 4 to 5 hours to cook on low (or 2 to 3 hours on high) in the crock pot. You can set it and forget it, letting the flavors blend beautifully as your dinner cooks while you go about your day. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by coating the chicken breasts evenly with Cajun seasoning. This will give them a flavor-packed kick! Place the seasoned chicken at the bottom of your crock pot.
2. Add Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion, green bell pepper, and red bell pepper around the chicken in the crock pot. Then, sprinkle the minced garlic on top. This makes sure your dish is full of tasty veggies!
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour the chicken broth over the chicken and veggies. This will help keep everything moist while cooking.
4. 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 can go about your day while it cooks!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. It should pull apart easily and be super tender!
6. Add Pasta and Cream:
Now it’s time for the penne pasta! Add the uncooked pasta, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese to the crock pot. Give everything a good stir to mix it well.
7. Combine Everything:
Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and mix it in with the pasta and sauce. Cover the crock pot and cook on high for another 30-45 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked and the sauce has thickened nicely.
8. Season to Taste:
After everything is cooked, taste the dish and add salt and pepper as needed to make it perfect for your palate.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta!
Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz (225g) penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
- Fresh
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! If using frozen chicken, add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time. It’s essential to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Make sure to check it before shredding!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to a month. When reheating, add a splash of cream or broth to maintain creaminess.
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 evaporated milk. For a dairy-free version, try coconut cream for that rich texture without the dairy!
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini. Just remember that cooking times may vary, so add tougher veggies earlier and softer ones closer to the end of cooking.
