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An Incredible Ultimate 1-Pot Wonder Recipe

An Incredible Ultimate 1-Pot Wonder Recipe

4.9 from 15 reviews

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful slow-cooker dish combining tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. It’s an easy, hands-off recipe ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasonings

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped

Liquids and Dairy

  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

Pasta

  • 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)

Garnish

  • Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, making sure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In the crock pot, add the seasoned chicken, chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and red pepper flakes if using. Mix lightly to combine.
  3. Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours until the chicken is tender and can be shredded easily with a fork.
  4. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it finely with two forks or chop into bite-sized pieces, then set aside.
  5. Add Cream and Pasta: Stir the heavy cream and uncooked penne pasta into the crock pot mixture, blending well.
  6. Finalize Cooking: Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender and creamy.
  7. Stir in Cheese: Add the shredded Parmesan cheese, stirring thoroughly to create a rich, creamy sauce.
  8. Return Chicken: Mix the shredded chicken back into the crock pot with the pasta and sauce for even distribution.
  9. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • For extra heat, include the optional red pepper flakes.
  • Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten free.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.
  • To reduce calories, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or milk, though sauce will be less rich.
  • Parmesan cheese adds umami and creaminess; pecorino or Asiago can be alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crock Pot, Cajun Chicken, Creamy Pasta, Slow Cooker Dinner, Easy Chicken Pasta, Comfort Food, Cajun Recipe