Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful slow cooker dinner loaded with tender shredded chicken, Cajun seasoning, Parmesan cheese, and perfectly cooked penne pasta. This easy crockpot recipe delivers restaurant-quality comfort food with minimal effort.
Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients
Method
- Lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray.
- Place the chicken breasts in the slow cooker.
- Season the chicken with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the minced garlic, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes.
- Cover and cook on LOW for 5 to 6 hours or HIGH for 2½ to 3 hours.
- Remove the chicken and shred it using two forks.
- Stir the softened cream cheese, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese into the slow cooker until smooth.
- Return the shredded chicken to the sauce and stir well.
- Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Fold the cooked pasta into the slow cooker until evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Cover and cook for another 10 minutes on LOW.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Freshly grated Parmesan melts more smoothly than packaged cheese.
- Cook the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning to make the dish milder or spicier.
- Full-fat cream cheese creates the richest sauce.
- Stir well before serving for the creamiest texture.
Variations
- Add sliced bell peppers during the last hour.
- Stir in fresh spinach before serving.
- Use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts.
- Add cooked smoked sausage for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with mozzarella and broil for a baked pasta version.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with garlic bread.
- Pair with a Caesar salad.
- Add roasted broccoli or asparagus.
- Enjoy with buttery dinner rolls.
- Finish with extra Parmesan and fresh parsley.
Tips
- Shred the chicken while it’s still warm for the easiest texture.
- Cook the pasta just before serving.
- Add a splash of chicken broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
- Refrigerate leftovers for up to 4 days.
- Freeze the chicken and sauce without the pasta for up to 3 months.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
Servings
Serves: 6
Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 610
- Protein: 39g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fat: 31g
- Sodium: 760mg
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs become extra tender in the slow cooker and work perfectly in this recipe.
Can I cook the pasta in the slow cooker?
It’s best to cook the pasta separately and stir it in at the end. This prevents it from becoming overcooked and mushy.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a mild to medium Cajun kick. You can reduce the Cajun seasoning for a milder version or add extra for more heat.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Prepare the chicken and sauce ahead of time, then cook fresh pasta when you’re ready to serve.
How do I thicken the sauce?
If needed, let the sauce cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes, or stir in a slurry made from 1 tablespoon cornstarch and 1 tablespoon cold water.
What sides go well with Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, green beans, or steamed broccoli are all excellent choices.
