I can’t believe how much my family loved this Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta! It was so easy to prepare, and the flavors were absolutely out of this world. I was impressed by how creamy and hearty it turned out, with just the right amount of Cajun spice to keep everyone asking for seconds.

It’s definitely a new favorite for busy weeknights and cozy weekends alike. Trust me, once you make this dish, it’ll become a regular in your meal rotation.

Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe — Source: eatingonadime.com

Ingredients

This recipe features simple ingredients that pack a punch of flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Use fresh chicken instead of frozen to ensure even cooking.
2 cups of heavy whipping cream: It adds a luxurious creaminess you just can’t skip.
4 cups of chicken broth: This serves as the base for our rich, flavorful sauce.
4 tablespoons of butter: Essential for creating that decadent, silky texture in the sauce.
2 tablespoons of Cajun seasoning: Adjust the quantity based on your spice tolerance!
1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder: Elevates the overall flavor without overpowering.
1 pound of penne pasta: Use dry pasta instead of pre-cooked for better texture in the slow cooker.
1 cup of grated Parmesan cheese: Freshly grate it for the best flavor and meltability.

Note: This recipe makes about 8 servings.

Variations

Feel free to make this dish your own with these fun variations:

Chicken Alternatives: Swap chicken breasts for thighs for extra juiciness, or try shrimp for a seafood twist.
Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
Extra Spice: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
Pasta Swap: Substitute penne with fettuccine, bowties, or rotini for variety.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to accommodate dietary needs.

For another creamy and flavorful dish, you might want to try this Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce Recipe, which is equally delightful.

Cooking Time

Here’s a breakdown of the time you’ll need:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours (on low) or 3 hours (on high)
Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes (approximately)

Equipment You Need

Here’s a quick list of the tools you’ll need for this recipe:

6-Quart Slow Cooker: For cooking everything evenly.
Cutting Board and Knife: For prepping the chicken.
Whisk: To ensure the sauce blends smoothly.
Tongs or Forks: For shredding the chicken easily.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.

How to Make Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Cooking this pasta is so straightforward, and the results are fantastic!

Step 1: Prepare the Base

Start by placing the chicken breasts, heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning into your slow cooker. Stir everything gently to combine. This base will create the rich, creamy sauce that makes this dish irresistible.

Step 2: Slow Cook

Cover your slow cooker and set it to low heat for 4–6 hours, or high heat for 2–3 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. The aroma filling your kitchen during this time is simply amazing!

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using tongs or forks. You can also dice it into chunks if you prefer. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to soak up the flavors of the sauce.

Step 4: Add the Pasta

Next, stir in your uncooked pasta. Make sure it’s fully submerged in the liquid for even cooking. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high heat for another 20–30 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente.

Step 5: Finish with Cheese

Finally, add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir it in until melted and smooth. Cover for another 5 minutes to ensure the cheese fully incorporates. Then, give the dish one last stir and get ready to serve!

Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better

Having made this a few times, I’ve learned a few tricks to enhance the dish:

Pre-Mix the Seasoning: I blend the Cajun seasoning and garlic powder beforehand for even flavor distribution.
Use Room-Temperature Ingredients: This helps your slow cooker heat everything evenly.
Stir Occasionally (if possible): It prevents the sauce from pooling and ensures all ingredients cook evenly.
Add Vegetables at the Right Time: If you’re adding veggies like bell peppers, toss them in during the last hour of cooking to maintain their texture.

For a different flavor profile, you might enjoy this Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice Recipe.

How to Serve Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Presentation matters as much as taste. Serve this dish straight from the crockpot or ladle it onto plates for a polished look. Sprinkle a little extra Parmesan on top and garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve with garlic bread to soak up the sauce and a crisp side salad to balance the richness. Trust me, this combo is hard to beat!

Nutritional Information

This hearty dish has solid nutritional benefits. Here’s a snapshot per serving:

Calories: 465
Protein: 33g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fat: 14g

Make Ahead and Storage

Planning ahead? This recipe is perfect for meal prepping.

Storing: Place leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Portion the pasta and sauce into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove. Add a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce as it reheats.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

This dish truly has something for everyone!

Effortless Prep: Toss everything in the crockpot and walk away. Simple!
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone from kids to spice lovers will adore this balanced Cajun flavor.
Customizable: Adjust ingredients to your family’s preferences.
Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.
Comfort Food Classic: Creamy, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. It’s comfort in every bite!

Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results

Before you start cooking, keep these tips in mind to ensure success:

Cooking with a slow cooker can be tricky, but avoiding a few common errors will guarantee the best result. For one, don’t add too much liquid. The chicken and pasta release moisture as they cook, so stick to the recommended amount of liquid in the recipe.

Using frozen chicken is another common mistake. It increases cooking time and may result in unevenly cooked meat. Always use fresh or properly thawed chicken for this recipe.

Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Pasta: Monitor the cooking time carefully once the pasta is added to avoid mushiness.
Not Shredding the Chicken Properly: Shred the chicken finely to ensure every bite is infused with flavor.
Skipping Fresh Cheese: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-clumping agents that may affect how well it melts.

With these tips, your Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is sure to be flawless every time! If you enjoy hearty meals like this, you can also explore other chicken recipes for more inspiration.

Ash Tyrrell