Why Make This Recipe
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a great dinner choice for busy families or anyone who wants a quick, flavorful meal without a lot of effort. This dish is rich, creamy, and full of zesty Cajun flavors, making it a hit for both adults and kids. Plus, you can set it and forget it while it cooks slowly, allowing all the flavors to meld together perfectly.
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 the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. You can marinate the chicken for 15–20 minutes if you have the time.
- 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 high for 3–4 hours.
- After cooking, remove the chicken and shred it using forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and creamy. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
- Cook the pasta separately according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and then stir into the slow cooker mixture.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or crushed red pepper flakes.
How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This dish is best served warm right after cooking. You can garnish it with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor. Pair it with a simple salad or some garlic bread for a complete meal.
How to Store Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
To store leftovers, let the pasta cool down to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. It can last for about 3–4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Just make sure to keep it in a freezer-safe container, and it can last for up to 2 months.
Tips to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- For an extra kick, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add more crushed red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to use different vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
- If you’re a fan of spice, consider adding some diced jalapeños to the slow cooker for an extra layer of heat.
- Using half-and-half instead of cream cheese can give it a different texture if you prefer.
Variation
Try swapping out the chicken for shrimp or sausage for a different take on this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time as shrimp cooks faster than chicken.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you may need to increase the cooking time by an hour or so.
2. Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! Any pasta you like can work, but make sure to slightly adjust the cooking time if it’s different from penne or rotini.
3. Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, this recipe stores well and is perfect for meal prep. Just reheat portions as needed!
