Name: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-489007H56M7S
Total time: PT-489007H56M7S
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 pounds Chicken Breasts; 2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream; 4 cups Chicken Broth; 4 Tablespoons Butter; 2 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 pound Penne Pasta; 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

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If you’ve been searching for that perfect combination of creamy, spicy, and downright comforting, I have to share this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe with you—it’s an absolute game-changer! Imagine tender chicken slow-cooked to juicy perfection, bathed in a dreamy Cajun-spiced cream sauce, all mingling effortlessly with tender penne pasta. This dish brings together Southern charm with rustic simplicity, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner that feels like a warm hug on your plate. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become one of your go-to favorites for impressing family and friends or just treating yourself.

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe plays a starring role. They are simple but essential, coming together to create layers of incredible flavor, luscious texture, and an inviting color that makes the dish as beautiful as it is delicious.

2 pounds Chicken Breasts: The tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the flavors beautifully during slow cooking.
2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream: Adds a rich, velvety texture that makes the sauce irresistibly creamy.
4 cups Chicken Broth: Builds a savory base that keeps the dish moist without overpowering the creaminess.
4 Tablespoons Butter: Provides a silky richness and helps meld the spices and cream into one harmonious sauce.
2 Tablespoons Cajun Seasoning: Infuses the entire dish with just the right amount of smoky, spicy kick you crave.
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Offers a subtle aromatic touch that enhances every bite.
1 pound Penne Pasta: A sturdy pasta shape that holds up to the creamy sauce while adding a satisfying bite.
1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese: Stirred in at the end for a nutty, salty finish that melts beautifully.

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Combine and Cook the Chicken

Start by placing the chicken breasts, heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning into your 6-quart crock pot. This blend is the secret for locking in flavors and ensuring the chicken cooks up tender and infused with spice. Cover and set your crock pot to low for 4 to 6 hours, or high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken reaches 165 degrees F internally, ensuring juicy, safe-to-eat meat.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot and shred or dice them into large, satisfying pieces. This texture is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce and makes every bite hearty and comforting.

Step 3: Whisk the Sauce and Add Pasta

Give the sauce in the crock pot a good whisk to combine all those fantastic flavorful bits left behind by the chicken. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and then stir in the uncooked penne pasta. This step allows the pasta to cook directly in the creamy, spicy sauce, soaking up all that lusciousness.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta Until Tender

Cover the crock pot and set to high for about 20 to 30 minutes. Keep an eye on the texture—once the penne is tender and perfectly cooked, it’s time to add the finishing touch.

Step 5: Stir in Parmesan Cheese

Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly, then cover and let it sit for 5 minutes so the cheese can melt into the sauce, adding a rich nutty depth. The cheese transforms the dish’s creaminess into something truly decadent.

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or green onions adds a fresh pop of color and brightness that balances the richness wonderfully. A dash of extra Cajun seasoning on top can bring a little extra heat if you’re feeling adventurous.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or some garlic bread to soak up every last bit of that irresistible cream sauce. Roasted or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus can add a healthy, crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve this dish in rustic bowls for a cozy, comfort-food vibe or plated elegantly with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh herbs for dinner guests. Individual mini cast iron skillets or ramekins can also make a fun presentation, keeping servings warm right at the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors tend to deepen overnight, making the next day’s meal just as delightful if not more so.

Freezing

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe also freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and freeze for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture of the pasta may soften slightly after freezing.

Reheating

For best results, reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce needs loosening. Microwaving works too—just do it in short bursts, stirring in between to keep it creamy and smooth.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs tend to be juicier and can work wonderfully in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time slightly if needed until the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

Is there a way to make this recipe less spicy?

If you prefer a milder flavor, reduce the Cajun seasoning by half or opt for a mild Cajun blend. The cream and cheese balance the spices, so it will still be flavorful and comforting.

Can I prep ingredients ahead of time?

You can absolutely combine all ingredients except the pasta in the crock pot insert the night before, keeping it refrigerated. Add the pasta fresh when you’re ready to cook to avoid it becoming mushy.

What pasta types work best in this recipe?

Penne is classic because it holds the sauce well, but rigatoni, rotini, or shells can also be delicious alternatives depending on your preference.

Can this recipe be made on the stovetop?

Yes! You can cook the chicken and sauce in a large pot, then add the pasta and cook until tender. Just be sure to stir frequently and monitor the liquid levels to prevent burning or sticking.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is comfort food elevated to a whole new level of flavor and ease. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual weekend feast, this dish delivers rich creaminess, lively spice, and hearty satisfaction all in one bowl. I’m so excited for you to try it and make it a beloved staple at your table just like I have!

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 13 reviews

Author: Zoe
Total Time: Approximately 4 hours 40 minutes (low) or 2 hours 40 minutes (high)
Yield: 6 to 8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and comforting one-pot meal perfect for busy weeknights. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked in a rich and creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, then combined with penne pasta and Parmesan cheese for a satisfying dish with bold Southern-inspired flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Sauce

2 pounds Chicken Breasts
2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
4 cups Chicken Broth
4 Tablespoons Butter
2 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder

Pasta and Cheese

1 pound Penne Pasta
1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Add the chicken breasts, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning into a 6-quart crock pot, ensuring all ingredients are evenly combined for consistent flavor.
Slow Cook Chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, indicating it is fully cooked.
Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred or dice it into large pieces, ready to be mixed back into the sauce.
Combine Sauce and Chicken: Whisk the sauce in the crock pot to blend the ingredients smoothly, then return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir in the uncooked penne pasta.
Cook Pasta: Cover and cook on high for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and fully cooked to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
Add Cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, cover the crock pot, and let it sit for 5 minutes so the cheese can melt, creating a creamy texture.
Serve: Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta warm and enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.

Notes

You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts for extra moisture and flavor.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
For a lower-fat version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
To prevent the pasta from sticking, stir occasionally during the cooking process after adding the pasta.
Leftovers keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat nicely.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (low) or 2 to 3 hours (high) plus 20 to 30 minutes for pasta
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooker/Crock Pot
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern American