Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: Easy & Flavorful Dinner

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful meal that combines tender chicken with a rich and creamy sauce, making it a family favorite. This dish is easy to prepare and yields a comforting dinner with minimal effort. If you love pasta dishes full of flavor, this recipe is for you. With just a few ingredients and your trusty slow cooker, you can enjoy a hearty meal that will please everyone at your table.

WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE

This dish is perfect for several reasons. First, the Crock Pot allows you to set it and forget it. You can go about your day while the meal cooks slowly, melding all those lovely flavors together. The creamy sauce is not only rich and decadent but also complements the Cajun spices beautifully. Perfectly cooked chicken combined with tasty veggies and pasta makes this a well-rounded meal. Plus, it’s easily adjustable; you can add your favorite ingredients or swap out the pasta for what you have on hand. Overall, it’s an easy, flavorful, and comforting dish that will quickly become a staple in your household.

HOW TO MAKE Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

This recipe is simple and straightforward. You will need to gather your ingredients and follow the step-by-step instructions.

EQUIPMENT NEEDED

To make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you will need the following equipment:

• A slow cooker
• A cutting board and knife for prepping vegetables
• Measuring spoons and cups
• A large pot for cooking pasta
• A whisk or spoon for mixing

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 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 for garnish
• Extra Parmesan cheese for serving
• Crushed red pepper flakes for an optional spicy kick

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prep the Chicken: Start by rubbing the boneless chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. For a deeper flavor, you can let the chicken marinate for 15 to 20 minutes.
2. Load the Slow Cooker: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced red bell pepper, green bell pepper, yellow onion, and pour in the chicken broth.
3. Cook the Chicken: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shred with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
5. Make it Creamy: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker. Then, add the cubed cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Let it cook on low for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
6. Cook the Pasta: While the chicken is finishing up, cook the pasta according to the package directions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta before adding it to the slow cooker.
7. Combine and Serve: Stir the cooked pasta into the creamy Cajun chicken mixture. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

 

HOW TO SERVE Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta can be served in bowls for a cozy dinner. You can also pair it with side salads, crusty bread, or garlic bread to soak up any leftover creamy sauce. For an added punch, sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over each serving. This dish is not only filling but also visually appealing with the vibrant colors of the bell peppers and the garnish.

STORAGE & FREEZING: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

If you have leftovers, they can be stored easily. Place any remaining pasta in an airtight container and refrigerate. It can last in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or microwave until heated through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It should keep well in the freezer for about 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS

To make your meal more complete, consider serving the pasta with a fresh green salad. A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing touch. Garlic bread is another perfect partner, as its crispy texture and flavor complement the creamy pasta beautifully. A glass of white wine can also elevate the dining experience, making it feel extra special.

VARIATIONS

This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Here are some variations to consider:

• Different Proteins: Swap out the chicken for shrimp, sausage, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Extra Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.
• More Spice: Adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning or add jalapeños for extra heat.
• Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free cream cheese and nutritional yeast to keep the creamy texture without dairy.
• Gluten-Free: Choose gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version of this dish.

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the dish in the oven. After seasoning the chicken and adding the veggies and broth to a baking dish, cover it with foil and bake at 375°F for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Then follow the same steps to make the creamy sauce and combine it with the pasta.

2. Can this dish be made with frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken in the slow cooker. Just remember to add extra cooking time. It’s best to cook on low for about 8 to 9 hours if the chicken is frozen.

3. What can I do if my sauce is too thick?

If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a bit more chicken broth or some milk to loosen it up. Stir well until you reach the desired consistency.

4. How spicy is this dish?

The level of spiciness depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less seasoning or choose a milder brand. You can always add more spice later on if you want.

MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, you can prepare the chicken and veggies the night before. Simply season the chicken and place it in the slow cooker insert with the sliced vegetables and broth. Cover the insert and place it in the refrigerator. In the morning, you can plug in the slow cooker to cook while you go about your day.

Moreover, the creamy sauce can also be prepped a day before. Just mix the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese together in a bowl and keep it in the refrigerator until it’s time to add it to the slow cooker. This will save you time and ensure everything is ready for a delicious dinner.

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. With its rich flavors and comforting qualities, it promises to become a beloved recipe in your household. Enjoy the deliciousness!

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