When the weather turns chilly or when you’re craving a comforting, flavorful meal that practically cooks itself, this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta will become your go-to dish. Packed with rich, creamy sauce, zesty Cajun spices, tender chicken, and perfectly cooked pasta, this recipe has everything you could want in a comforting, one-pot meal. Plus, it’s super easy to make, requiring only minimal prep time and your trusty slow cooker.
If you’re on the hunt for a meal that is both indulgent and simple, this Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is calling your name. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing a meal for a cozy dinner for two, you’re sure to fall in love with this dish. Let’s dive into the ingredients, preparation, and step-by-step process that will turn your kitchen into the ultimate comfort food haven!
Ingredients for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this creamy, savory, and slightly spicy dish. Make sure to have these ingredients on hand before getting started!
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 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 (10 oz.) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
This combination of ingredients ensures you get a creamy, flavorful sauce with a slight kick from the Cajun seasoning. The chicken breasts cook to juicy perfection, infusing the entire dish with a mouthwatering savory goodness. It’s the kind of dish that’s perfect for both busy weekdays and weekend dinner parties.
Step-by-Step Directions for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s jump into the easy steps to make this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by placing the 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the bottom of your Crock Pot. These chicken breasts will serve as the flavorful base of the dish, absorbing all the seasonings and sauce as they cook.
Next, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper over the chicken breasts. This blend of spices will coat the chicken evenly, giving it that authentic Cajun flavor that will shine through the creamy sauce later on. Don’t be shy with the seasonings—this dish thrives on bold flavors!
Step 2: Add the Creamy Ingredients
In a separate bowl, take 1 can (10 oz.) of cream of chicken soup, 1 (8 oz.) package of softened cream cheese, 1 cup of chicken broth, and 1 cup of heavy cream. Use a whisk or a spoon to mix everything together until smooth and well-combined. This creamy mixture will form the luscious sauce that envelops the chicken and pasta.
Once the mixture is smooth, pour it over the seasoned chicken breasts in the Crock Pot. The cream cheese adds an extra layer of richness, while the cream of chicken soup and chicken broth provide a savory base for the sauce. The heavy cream makes the sauce ultra-creamy and gives it the perfect texture to coat the pasta.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Now that your chicken and creamy sauce are all set in the Crock Pot, cover the pot with its lid and cook the chicken on low for 4 hours. The slow cooking process allows the chicken to become tender and infused with the delicious flavors from the seasoning and sauce.
At the end of the 4 hours, the chicken should be fully cooked and easy to shred. You’ll know it’s done when the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is easily shredded with a fork.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken has cooked, it’s time to shred it. Use two forks to carefully pull the chicken apart right in the Crock Pot. The chicken should be so tender that it practically falls apart, making it easy to shred. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy sauce to ensure each piece is coated with that rich, flavorful goodness.
This is where the magic happens—shredding the chicken into the sauce ensures that every bite is packed with flavor, and the chicken blends seamlessly into the creamy sauce, making every bite utterly satisfying.
Step 5: Add the Pasta
Now, it’s time to add the uncooked penne pasta to the Crock Pot. Pour the pasta directly into the pot, stirring to make sure the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy sauce. You may need to press the pasta down gently to make sure it’s submerged in the sauce for even cooking.
Once the pasta is in, cover the Crock Pot again and cook on low for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the pasta reaches your desired tenderness. Stir occasionally to ensure the pasta cooks evenly. The pasta will soak up the creamy sauce, and the result will be a dish full of comforting goodness.
Step 6: Finish the Dish
Once the pasta is cooked to perfection, it’s time to add the final touch! Stir in 1/2 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese. The Parmesan will melt into the sauce, giving it an extra boost of flavor and creaminess. Give everything a good stir to make sure the cheese is evenly distributed throughout the dish.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Now, you’re ready to serve this delicious Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! For a beautiful touch and a hint of freshness, garnish the dish with some fresh parsley. The green color adds a pop of vibrancy to the creamy pasta, making it look as good as it tastes.
Serve the dish hot, and enjoy the rich, spicy flavors in every bite. This meal is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or a casual gathering with friends. It’s bound to be a hit with anyone who loves creamy, comforting dishes.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional values for each serving of Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta:
- Calories: 600 kcal per serving
- Protein: 34g
- Fat: 31g
- Carbs: 44g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sodium: 700mg
This recipe provides a hearty serving of protein, which makes it a filling and satisfying meal. The rich, creamy sauce and perfectly cooked pasta make it a total comfort food winner, while the Cajun spices give it that little kick of heat that’ll have you coming back for more.
Tips for Making the Best Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
How to Get the Perfect Creamy Sauce
To make sure the sauce is perfectly creamy, don’t skip the cream cheese and heavy cream. These ingredients are essential for achieving the rich and smooth texture that makes this dish stand out. Additionally, stirring the Parmesan cheese in at the end will help create a silky texture that coats the chicken and pasta beautifully.
Can I Use a Different Type of Pasta?
While penne is the perfect pasta for this dish, you can definitely experiment with other pasta shapes, such as rotini or rigatoni. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time based on the type of pasta you use. The key is to make sure the pasta is well-coated with the creamy sauce, so it cooks evenly.
How Do I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love spice, feel free to add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce to the dish. You can also increase the smoked paprika for an extra layer of smokiness. Adjust the spice level to suit your personal taste!
Can I Make This in Advance?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making in advance! You can prepare the chicken and creamy sauce up to 24 hours ahead of time. Simply assemble everything in the Crock Pot, refrigerate it, and then cook it when you’re ready to eat. The flavors will have even more time to meld together, making the dish even more flavorful.
Can I Freeze This Recipe?
While this recipe is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2-3 months. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then heat in the microwave or on the stove until warmed through.
Pairing Suggestions
To make this meal even more satisfying, consider pairing it with a few side dishes. Here are some options to complete your meal:
- Garlic Bread: Serve a slice of warm, buttery garlic bread alongside this dish for a classic comfort food pairing.
- Green Salad: A fresh, light salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy pasta.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or broccoli make a great side dish to complement the creamy pasta.
Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
If you’re looking for more comforting, flavorful recipes to add to your collection, check out these links for some tasty inspiration:
- Smash Burgers with Baconnaise
- One-Pan Bold Honey BBQ Sausage Garlic Fettuccine
- Creamy Bacon and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the epitome of comfort food – creamy, cheesy, and just the right amount of spice. The slow cooker makes it a hands-off meal, so you can spend your time doing other things while your dinner cooks itself. With tender chicken, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta, this dish is sure to become a staple in your home. Give it a try, and enjoy the creamy, zesty goodness in every bite!
Print
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta – Comfort Meal Recipe
- Total Time: 4 hours 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich and flavorful comfort meal made with tender chicken, creamy sauce, and the perfect balance of Cajun spices. This easy recipe requires minimal prep time and cooks in your Crock Pot, leaving you with a delicious, creamy pasta dinner everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 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 (10 oz.) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz.) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of your Crock Pot. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper over the chicken breasts, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Add the Creamy Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, and heavy cream until smooth. Pour the mixture over the seasoned chicken in the Crock Pot.
- Cook the Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, use two forks to shred the chicken directly in the Crock Pot. Stir the shredded chicken into the creamy sauce.
- Cook the Pasta: Add the uncooked penne pasta to the Crock Pot, stirring to combine with the creamy sauce. Cover and cook on low for an additional 30-45 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked to your desired tenderness. Stir occasionally for even cooking.
- Finish the Dish: Stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese and mix well.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute penne pasta with other types like rotini or farfalle.
- For a lighter version, try using low-fat cream cheese or reduced-fat cream.
- This recipe can easily be doubled for larger gatherings or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Dinner
- Method: Crock Pot (Slow Cooker)
- Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 140mg
Keywords: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, easy Cajun pasta, creamy chicken pasta, slow cooker Cajun pasta, Cajun chicken recipe, Crock Pot chicken pasta, creamy pasta dish