If you’re searching for a cozy, hearty dinner that bursts with bold flavors yet requires minimal hands-on time, the 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is destined to become your new favorite. This dish combines tender, spice-kissed chicken slow-cooked to perfection with a luscious, creamy sauce that envelops perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s a vibrant, comforting meal that delivers a true cajun kick wrapped in the easiest slow cooker magic—ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward, essential ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. Each one adds something special, from smoky spices to creamy richness and fresh vegetable brightness, creating an irresistible symphony of flavor and texture.
- 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein base that soaks up all the Cajun spices beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: A spicy, aromatic blend that sets the authentic Cajun tone for the dish.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky depth and vibrant color to the sauce and chicken.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Boosts savory notes without overpowering the dish.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Delivers warmth and a subtle pungency crucial for that Cajun flavor profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the other flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a hint of heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps coat the chicken and veggies while locking in moisture.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings a sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds fresh, slightly bitter notes to balance richness.
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced: Provides a natural sweetness and aromatic base.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds punchy flavor beyond the garlic powder.
- 1 ½ cups low sodium chicken broth: Infuses moisture and depth without excess saltiness.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed: Melts into a velvety, tangy sauce that clings to the pasta.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Ensures luscious creaminess and smooth texture in the sauce.
- 12 ounces penne pasta, uncooked: The perfect sturdy pasta that holds up well in a slow cooker.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty, savory finish to the creamy sauce.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Fresh herbaceous brightness that livens up the dish at the end.
How to Make 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Layer the Flavors
Start by placing your chicken breasts directly in the crock pot and generously sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over them. Drizzle with olive oil to help the spices cling and add richness. Layer the sliced bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic right on top, and pour the chicken broth around—not over—the layers. This setup ensures the chicken and veggies slowly mingle flavors as they gently cook.
Step 2: Slow Cook Until Tender
Set your crock pot to low and let it work its magic for 4 to 5 hours, or if you’re short on time, use the high setting for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken will become tender and juicy, easily shredding with a fork. The vegetables and broth meld into a flavorful, aromatic base that’s truly irresistible.
Step 3: Shred Chicken and Create the Creamy Sauce
Once the chicken is tender, remove it from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir in the cubed cream cheese along with the heavy cream. Stir gently until the cream cheese has fully melted and the sauce is luxuriously smooth, ready to coat that pasta perfectly.
Step 4: Cook the Pasta Right in the Crock Pot
Add the uncooked penne pasta to the creamy mixture, pressing it down so it’s mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook on high for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta should be tender but still firm to the bite, soaking up that bold Cajun cream sauce.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Fresh Parsley
As a final touch, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. The cheese melts into the sauce giving it an extra layer of savory goodness, while the parsley adds a pop of fresh color and flavor, rounding out this delightful dish.
How to Serve 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate each serving, consider sprinkling extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of smoked paprika on top for an added smoky accent. A little fresh parsley or green onions can brighten the plate and add fresh herbaceous notes that balance the creamy richness beautifully.
Side Dishes
This creamy Cajun pasta is a meal on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans adds a refreshing crunch and balances the flavorful creaminess. For a heartier meal, serve alongside garlic bread or warm cornbread to soak up every last bit of that delicious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve this pasta in hollowed-out bell peppers or individual ramekins topped with breadcrumbs broiled until golden and crispy. It also works wonderfully layered in a casserole dish and baked briefly for a baked Cajun pasta casserole vibe that’s perfect for family-style dining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen even more after a day, making it a perfect next-day lunch or dinner option. Just keep the sauce and pasta moist by stirring in a splash of chicken broth or cream before reheating.
Freezing
This dish freezes nicely in portion-sized containers. Freeze for up to 2 months for the best quality. When freezing, it’s best to omit the Parmesan and parsley; add them fresh after reheating for maximum freshness and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating. Add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture to the perfect consistency.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it will increase the cooking time. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and tender before shredding. Cooking on low for an extra hour should do the trick.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and use coconut cream or a dairy-free heavy cream substitute. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan to keep that cheesy flavor.
Can I add other proteins like sausage?
Definitely! Andouille sausage is a classic Cajun addition and pairs beautifully here. Slice and add it about halfway through the slow cooking time so it heats through without drying out.
What type of pasta works best in this recipe?
Penne is ideal for holding the creamy sauce, but other sturdy shapes like rigatoni or rotini work well, too. Avoid delicate pastas that might get mushy during the slow cooker step.
How spicy is this dish, and can I adjust the heat?
The Cajun seasoning provides a moderate level of heat that you can easily adjust. Use less seasoning for milder flavors or add cayenne pepper to turn up the heat. Always taste and tweak it to your preference!
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth and rich flavors of the 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s slow cooker simplicity paired with bold, satisfying zest—a perfect combination for both busy nights and special dinners. I can’t wait for you to make this at home and see how it quickly becomes a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, easy-to-make slow cooker meal that combines tender Cajun-spiced chicken breasts with creamy cheese sauce and perfectly cooked penne pasta. Loaded with bell peppers, onions, and a touch of heavy cream, it delivers a comforting and rich dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta and Garnish
- 12 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Season the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot and evenly sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Drizzle olive oil over the top.
- Add vegetables and broth: Layer the sliced red and green bell peppers, sliced onion, and minced garlic evenly over the chicken. Pour in the low sodium chicken broth to provide moisture for the slow cooking.
- Cook the chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken is tender and easily shredded.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot and shred them using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot.
- Add cream cheese and heavy cream: Stir in the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream until the cream cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth, creating a rich and creamy base.
- Cook the pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the crock pot, making sure it is mostly submerged in the sauce. Cover and cook on high for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until the pasta is al dente.
- Finish with cheese and parsley: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Mix well to combine, then serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level for more or less heat.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or heavy cream to thin it out.
- For added flavor, consider adding sliced andouille sausage to the crock pot with the vegetables.
- Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate gluten sensitivity or dietary restrictions.
