If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting meal that requires minimal effort, Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the dish for you. This one-pot wonder combines tender chicken, creamy sauce, and flavorful spices, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for busy weeknights or a lazy weekend, this pasta dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Why We Love This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta recipe stands out for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can set it up in the morning and let your slow cooker do the work while you go about your day. The rich, creamy sauce brings a delightful flavor, enhanced by the kick of Cajun seasoning that adds a layer of warmth without overwhelming your taste buds. Plus, it’s versatile enough to please both adults and kids, making it an ideal choice for family dinners. Not to mention, cleanup is a breeze since everything is made in one pot!
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Parmesan cheese for serving
- Fresh parsley for garnish
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
To prepare your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, start by placing the diced chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker. This will be your base, allowing the chicken to absorb all the delicious flavors as it cooks.
Next, layer the pasta on top of the chicken. You can use either penne or fusilli; both shapes hold onto the creamy sauce beautifully. Now, add your chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic. The vegetables will add not only flavor but also some nice texture to the dish.
In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk it all together until you have a smooth mixture. Carefully pour this creamy goodness over the ingredients in the slow cooker. Use a spoon to gently stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken and pasta are well coated with the sauce.
Put the lid on your crock pot and set it to cook on low for about 4 to 6 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and the pasta is tender. Once cooking is complete, give it a good stir and taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add a little more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning to suit your preference.
When you’re ready to serve, dish out generous portions onto plates or bowls. Top each serving off with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is delicious enough to stand on its own, but there are a few ways to elevate your dining experience. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad complements the rich flavors of the pasta perfectly.
If you’re in the mood for something heartier, crusty bread or garlic bread is an excellent choice. The bread can soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite even more enjoyable. For a complete meal, you might also want to add steamed vegetables, such as broccoli or green beans, to add some color and nutrition to your plate.
Expert Tips: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
To ensure your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, here are some expert tips to consider:
- Choose the Right Chicken: Chicken breast works well for this recipe, but you can also use thighs for more moisture and flavor. Just make sure to trim any excess fat.
- Pasta Decisions: If you prefer a specific type of pasta, just keep in mind cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. Whole grain or gluten-free pasta can also work, but you might need to check for doneness before serving.
- Seasoning Balance: It’s easier to add more seasoning at the end than to adjust flavors that have already been cooked in. Start with less Cajun seasoning if you’re unsure about the spice level, and you can always add more later.
- Check the Consistency: After cooking, if the pasta seems a little too dry, you can add a splash of chicken broth or additional cream to make it creamier. Stir thoroughly to combine.
- Garnishing: While Parmesan and parsley are fantastic toppings, consider adding some red pepper flakes if you enjoy extra heat.
How to Store Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
If you have leftovers (which is often the case since this recipe is quite generous), storing your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is quite simple. Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days.
If you’d like to make it ahead or have more left for later, you can freeze it. Portion the cooled pasta into freezer-safe containers, and it should be fine for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Variations of Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This recipe is incredibly versatile, and you can easily customize it to suit your tastes or the ingredients you have on hand. Here are a few variations to inspire you:
- Seafood Twist: Substitute the chicken for shrimp or crawfish for a delightful seafood version. Just add them in the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking.
- Vegetarian Version: Make it meatless by omitting the chicken and adding more vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or spinach. You could also add white beans for protein.
- Cheesy Delight: For an extra cheesy flavor, mix in your favorite melty cheeses, like mozzarella or Monterey Jack, in the last moments of cooking.
- Spice Level: Adjust the Cajun seasoning to match your taste. Using a milder blend or even omitting it can make this dish more kid-friendly.
- Whole Wheat Option: Use whole wheat pasta for a healthier profile without sacrificing the delicious creamy flavor.
FAQ
What is Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a slow-cooked dish that combines diced chicken, pasta, creamy sauce, and Cajun seasoning for a flavorful meal.
How long does it take to cook Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
It typically takes about 4 to 6 hours on low in your slow cooker.
Can I use different types of pasta in this recipe?
Yes! Penne or fusilli works best, but you can use any pasta shape you prefer, keeping in mind cooking times.
Is this dish spicy?
The level of spice depends on the Cajun seasoning used. You can adjust to your preference for heat.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, diced Can substitute with chicken thighs for more flavor.
- 8 ounces pasta (penne or fusilli) Both pasta shapes work well.
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Adjust based on spice preference.
- to taste salt and pepper
- for serving Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is best.
- for garnish Fresh parsley
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the diced chicken at the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Layer the pasta on top of the chicken.
- Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic.
- In a separate bowl, combine the heavy cream, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Whisk until smooth.
- Pour the mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker and stir gently to coat.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours.
- Once cooked, stir the mixture and adjust seasonings as needed.
Serving
- Serve in bowls, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
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