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Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in slow cooker

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – Easy Weeknight Wonder


  • Author: Veronica Taylor
  • Total Time: 4 hrs 35 mins
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

This creamy Cajun chicken pasta brings together tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich, savory sauce that will elevate your weeknight dinners effortlessly.


Ingredients

Scale

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1⁄2 teaspoon smoked paprika

1⁄2 teaspoon salt

1⁄4 teaspoon black pepper

1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)

1 small onion, thinly sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices

1 cup chicken broth

1⁄2 cup heavy cream

1⁄2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

8 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)

Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish


Instructions

1. Begin by placing the chicken breasts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle with the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings into the chicken to ensure even coating.

2. In a large skillet over medium heat, lightly brown the chicken on both sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. This will help seal in the flavors.

3. Remove the chicken and place it in the bottom of your slow cooker.

4. Add the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken in the crock pot.

5. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth.

6. Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is cooked thoroughly.

7. Once the chicken is done, carefully remove it from the crock pot. Shred the chicken with two forks and return it to the crock pot.

8. Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese, mixing until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy.

9. In the meantime, cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and add the cooked pasta to the crock pot and stir well to combine with the sauce and chicken.

10. Allow everything to heat together in the crock pot for another 15-20 minutes on the low setting, to ensure it’s thoroughly warmed.

11. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper when seasoning the chicken.

Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

This dish can be prepped the night before and left to cook while you go about your day.

Leftovers of this pasta can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added nutrition.

  • Prep Time: 15 mins
  • Cook Time: 4 hrs
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Slow Cooker
  • Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1.5 cups
  • Calories: 550
  • Sugar: 5g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, slow cooker pasta, creamy cajun chicken, easy crock pot dinner