Name: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: PT-487631H33M59S
Total time: PT-487631H33M59S
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 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; Extra Parmesan cheese; Crushed red pepper flakes

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a cozy, flavor-packed meal that brings New Orleans spirit right to your table, Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a must-try! This dish combines tender, juicy chicken seasoned with just the right amount of Cajun spice, tossed with colorful veggies and a totally decadent, cheesy sauce—all slow-cooked to perfection. By the time you swirl your fork through those creamy noodles, you’ll be hooked on the smoky, savory magic of this comfort food classic. It’s an easy family dinner with bold flavors and irresistible creamy texture that tastes like a hug on a plate.

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best parts about Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is how each ingredient plays its own starring role—whether it’s providing heat, creaminess, color, or the hearty backbone of the dish. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few tips to make every element shine.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts (1 1/2 pounds): These soak up all the Cajun flavors and stay perfectly tender in the slow cooker.
Cajun seasoning (2 tablespoons): Don’t be shy—this blend is key for that authentic Southern kick!
Paprika (1 teaspoon): Adds depth and a gorgeous reddish hue.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers a mellow, background warmth without overpowering the dish.
Salt and pepper, to taste: Trust your taste buds and adjust at the end for perfect balance.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Helps the spices stick and gently browns the chicken as it cooks.
Red bell pepper, sliced (1): Sweetness and vibrant color to brighten every bite.
Green bell pepper, sliced (1): Earthy notes and more visual pop—essential for Cajun flair.
Yellow onion, sliced (1/2): Softens and melts into the sauce for deep flavor.
Low-sodium chicken broth (3 cups): Keeps everything juicy and forms the cheese sauce base.
Cream cheese, cubed (8 ounces): Magic ingredient for that rich, creamy finish.
Shredded Parmesan cheese (1 cup): Gives the sauce extra cheesiness and a touch of savory sharpness.
Penne or rotini pasta (12 ounces): Twists, tubes, or whatever you love—just make sure the pasta holds plenty of sauce!
Fresh parsley: For a fresh, herby finish when serving.
Extra Parmesan cheese: Never say no to more cheese on top.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For an extra kick, if you’re feeling spicy.

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Prep the Chicken

Start by rubbing the chicken breasts all over with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you have a little extra time, let the chicken marinate for 15 to 20 minutes—this really intensifies the flavors and gives the chicken loads of personality. A drizzle of olive oil helps those bold spices cling to every inch.

Step 2: Load Up the Slow Cooker

Lay your perfectly seasoned chicken in the slow cooker, then tuck the sliced bell peppers and onion around the sides for pops of sweetness and color throughout. Pour in the chicken broth, which will become the base for your luscious creamy sauce. Cover, set the slow cooker on low for 6 to 7 hours (or high for 3 to 4 hours), and let the magic happen.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fall-apart tender, carefully take it out and shred with two forks. This step not only makes the dish hearty and easy to eat, but lets the flavorful shreds soak in even more sauce. Return the chicken to the slow cooker so it can mingle with the veggies and broth.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Now it’s time for the creamy Cajun twist! Stir in the cubed cream cheese and shredded Parmesan. Give everything a good mix, then let it cook on low for another 10 to 15 minutes. Watch as the cheeses melt into the broth and veggies, creating a gorgeous, cheesy sauce that hugs every bite.

Step 5: Cook and Add the Pasta

While the sauce melts, cook your pasta according to package directions until just al dente. Drain well, then stir the pasta right into the slow cooker. All those wonderful flavors and melty cheese will coat the noodles perfectly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Spoon generous helpings onto plates or into bowls, then sprinkle with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan, and (if you like things spicy) a pinch of red pepper flakes. Dive in while it’s hot, creamy, and bursting with Cajun flavor!

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Bright, fresh parsley and a shower of shredded Parmesan make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta look as good as it tastes. For heat seekers, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds a fiery finish that tickles the tongue. These little touches elevate every bowl from simple to sensational.

Side Dishes

This hearty pasta absolutely shines on its own, but it’s even better with a sidekick or two. A crisp green salad drizzled with a zesty vinaigrette makes the perfect fresh contrast, or try some warm, crusty bread to soak up every drop of that creamy Cajun sauce. Roasted veggies also pair well, especially asparagus or broccoli for a pop of color and crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling a little fancy? Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta in deep pasta bowls, topped with a swirl of sauce and extra cheese. Or, pack it in thermoses for a steamy office lunch. For a playful, crowd-pleasing meal, set up a DIY pasta bar with bowls of garnishes and let everyone build their perfect bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors just get deeper and more delicious as they sit, making for some truly irresistible next-day lunches or quick dinners.

Freezing

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta freezes surprisingly well. Transfer cooled pasta and sauce to a freezer-safe bag or container, squeezing out excess air. Freeze up to two months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for comfort food at your fingertips.

Reheating

To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir often so everything heats evenly and stays silky, not sticky. Top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan to revive those first-day flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs stay even juicier and pack a bit more flavor. Just remove any excess fat, and cook as directed for a rich, satisfying twist on the original recipe.

Is this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta very spicy?

The heat level is pretty balanced, but it all depends on the Cajun seasoning you use. If you love more zing, add extra red pepper flakes—or, for a milder dish, use a gentle Cajun blend and skip the flakes on top.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, simply swap in your favorite gluten-free pasta. Watch the cooking time, as gluten-free varieties sometimes cook faster than regular pasta, and be sure your Cajun spices are certified gluten-free.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to toss in mushrooms, spinach, or even a few halved cherry tomatoes before slow cooking. This recipe is flexible, so use up what you have or add extra color and nutrition as you like!

How can I make it vegetarian?

Replace the chicken with drained chickpeas, extra bell peppers, and some sliced zucchini or eggplant. Use vegetable broth, and you’ll have a luscious vegetarian version that keeps all the spicy, creamy Cajun charm.

Final Thoughts

I can’t say enough about how satisfying, simple, and downright irresistible Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is. If you haven’t tried this recipe yet, now is the perfect time to bring some Southern comfort and a bit of spice into your weeknight routine. Give it a go, and don’t be surprised if it becomes an instant family favorite!

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 6 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: 4 hours 20 minutes to 7 hours 20 minutes
Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that is easy to make in a slow cooker. Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and creamy cheeses combine with Cajun spices for a delicious pasta meal.

Instructions

Rub chicken breasts: Season chicken with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Optional: marinate for 15–20 minutes.
Cook chicken: Place seasoned chicken in slow cooker with bell peppers, onion, and broth. Cook on low 6–7 hours or high 3–4 hours.
Shred chicken: Remove and shred chicken, then return to slow cooker.
Add cheeses: Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan until melted and creamy. Cook an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
Cook pasta: Cook pasta separately until al dente, then stir into the slow cooker mixture.
Serve: Garnish with parsley, extra cheese, or red pepper flakes before serving hot.

Notes

You can adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference.
For a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry and cook for a few more minutes.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours on high or 7 hours on low
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Cajun