Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – Easy, Spicy

Introduction

Are you searching for a hearty, flavorful meal that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum taste? Look no further than our Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! This comforting dish combines tender, juicy chicken with perfectly cooked pasta, all smothered in a rich and creamy Cajun sauce, thanks to the magic of slow cooking. The perfect balance of creamy and spicy flavors will delight your taste buds while keeping things simple and easy.

Whether you’re planning a cozy family dinner, need a convenient recipe for a busy weeknight, or just want something indulgent that adds a kick to your meal plan, this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ideal choice. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages—the kind of dish that can be prepared in advance and left to cook while you focus on your day. It’s no wonder that slow-cooked pasta recipes have become favorites for busy households and food enthusiasts alike.

In this recipe, the combination of bold Cajun spices, tender chicken breast, and a luxurious creamy sauce creates a delicious balance of heat and comfort. As the pasta and chicken cook in the Crock Pot, the flavors come together beautifully, offering an irresistibly creamy texture that’s filled with spicy, savory goodness. Pair this meal with some garlic bread or a fresh green salad, and you’ll have a complete, satisfying dinner with little fuss. Let’s dive in and discover how easy it is to bring this mouthwatering Cajun-inspired dish to life with the help of your trusty Crock Pot.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta is not just another pasta dish. It’s a rich and spicy twist on a comfort food classic that stands out because:

• Easy to Make: With minimal prep and a slow-cooker method, it’s a set-it-and-forget-it kind of recipe.
• Incredible Flavor: The Cajun seasoning, Parmesan cheese, garlic, and bell peppers combine to create a creamy, spicy sauce that’s perfect over pasta.
• Versatile Ingredients: This recipe is adaptable; use fresh or canned tomatoes, add extra veggies, or swap chicken for a meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
• One-Pot Cooking: Everything cooks in the crock pot, even the pasta, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy.

Ingredients for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

To make this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and even distribution in the dish.
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning – Adds that iconic Cajun flavor. Adjust according to spice preference.
• 2 cups heavy cream – For a rich, creamy sauce.
• 1 cup chicken broth – Adds depth and thins out the sauce slightly, balancing the creaminess.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a savory, cheesy flavor and helps thicken the sauce.
• 1 cup diced tomatoes – Use either canned (drained) or fresh diced tomatoes.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds sweetness and color.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced – Provides a slight bitterness that complements the spice.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – For flavor and aroma.
• 8 oz penne pasta – This pasta shape holds the sauce well and cooks perfectly in the crock pot.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish, adding freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

1. Season and Prepare the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large bowl and sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning. Toss the chicken until evenly coated.

2. Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot

Transfer the seasoned chicken to the crock pot. Add the heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and garlic. Stir everything together until combined.

3. Slow Cook

Cover and cook the mixture:

• On Low: Cook for 4–5 hours.
• On High: Cook for 2–3 hours. This allows the chicken to cook thoroughly, becoming tender and juicy, while the flavors meld together.

4. Add the Pasta

About 15 minutes before the end of cooking, add the penne pasta to the crock pot. Stir it well to make sure the pasta is submerged in the sauce.

5. Finish Cooking

Cover and continue cooking for another 15–20 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and has absorbed some of the flavors from the sauce.

6. Season and Serve

Once the pasta is cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper, if needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve.

Tips for Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder flavor, start with half the Cajun seasoning and gradually increase.
• Cream Alternatives: If you’re looking for a lighter option, try using half-and-half or coconut milk in place of heavy cream. Keep in mind that these substitutes may alter the flavor slightly.
• Add Vegetables: Consider adding mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Pasta Timing: For best results, add the pasta near the end of cooking. If left too long, the pasta may become mushy.
• Cheese Substitutions: Try grated Asiago or Pecorino Romano cheese for a twist on the classic Parmesan flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Seafood Twist: Try substituting the chicken with shrimp; just add it toward the end of the cooking process to avoid overcooking.
• Spicy Boost: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
• Cheesy Cajun Bake: Transfer the finished pasta to a baking dish, sprinkle with mozzarella or cheddar cheese, and broil until bubbly for a cheesy, baked version.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Each serving of this Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta offers approximately:

• Calories: 625 kcal
• Protein: 28 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fat: 38 g
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 4 g

This dish is rich in protein and calcium (from the Parmesan and heavy cream), but it’s also high in fats and calories, so it’s best enjoyed as an indulgent treat.

Storage and Serving Suggestions for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Storing Leftovers

This pasta dish keeps well in the fridge for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed.

Freezing

To freeze, transfer the cooled pasta to a freezer-safe container, leaving a bit of space for expansion. Freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this pasta with a side of crusty garlic bread or a fresh garden salad to balance the richness. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli for added texture and nutrition.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use pre-cooked pasta for this recipe?

While you can, it’s best to cook the pasta directly in the crock pot for the last 15 minutes to allow it to absorb the flavors of the sauce. Pre-cooked pasta may become mushy.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Yes, but milk won’t yield the same creamy thickness as heavy cream. Consider using half-and-half, or add a bit of cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce if using milk.

What’s the best type of Cajun seasoning to use?

Any store-bought Cajun seasoning works, but if you prefer homemade, combine paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

Simply replace the regular pasta with your favorite gluten-free pasta. Check the pasta for doneness around the 10-minute mark as gluten-free pasta may cook faster.

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• Spicy Korean Cucumber Salad Recipe
• Cheesy Beef and Nacho Wrap – Quick & Flavorful Tex-Mex Recipe
• Slow-Cooked Cuban Sandwiches | Easy Cuban Sandwich Recipe

Conclusion

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a cozy, flavorful dish that brings restaurant-quality flavors to your home kitchen with minimal effort. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and onions, paired with a rich, creamy, and slightly spicy sauce, creates a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will love.

Whether you’re hosting a casual family dinner, celebrating a special occasion, or just looking for a delicious yet simple dish to get you through a busy day, this recipe will become your go-to. The beauty of this dish is in its convenience—let the crock pot do all the work while you take care of everything else that needs your attention.

The bold Cajun spices will bring a touch of southern comfort to your dinner table, while the creamy sauce balances out the heat for a truly satisfying experience. Plus, it’s versatile—you can adjust the spice level to suit your family’s preference, and it pairs wonderfully with a crisp side salad or some warm, crusty bread.

So go ahead, give this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta a try, and let the slow cooker work its magic while you enjoy more time with your loved ones. We hope it becomes a favorite in your household as it has in ours. Don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below, and feel free to let us know if you added any personal touches to make it your own.

Happy cooking, and may your kitchen always be filled with warmth, love, and delicious food!

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – Easy, Spicy

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• Author: Emma
• Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful, and spicy dish that’s both comforting and effortless. Juicy chicken, tender pasta, and a creamy Cajun-infused sauce come together in the slow cooker for a perfect weeknight or family dinner. Simple ingredients and one-pot cooking make it as easy as it is delicious.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts – Cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning – Adjust to taste
• 2 cups heavy cream – For a creamy base
• 1 cup chicken broth – Balances the richness
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds depth and thickness
• 1 cup diced tomatoes – Fresh or canned
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced – Adds sweetness
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced – Adds a hint of bitterness
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Aromatic and flavorful
• 8 oz penne pasta – Perfectly holds the sauce
• Salt and pepper – To taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped – For garnish

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Instructions

• Season the Chicken:
  Toss chicken with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
• Combine Ingredients:
  Place chicken, heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and garlic in the crock pot. Stir well.
• Cook Slowly:
  • Cook on Low for 4–5 hours, or
  • Cook on High for 2–3 hours, until chicken is tender.
• Add Pasta:
  Stir in penne pasta 15 minutes before the end of cooking, ensuring it’s submerged.
• Finish Cooking:
  Continue cooking for 15–20 minutes, or until pasta is tender.
• Season and Serve:
  Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley and serve warm.

Notes

• For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Add veggies like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Ensure pasta isn’t overcooked by adding it near the end of cooking time.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hour
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 625 kcal
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 820 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Protein: 28 g
• Cholesterol: 120 mg

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy pasta, slow cooker recipes