why make this recipe
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a fantastic dish for anyone looking for a quick and delicious dinner. Cooking in a slow cooker means the flavors have time to meld beautifully, and the chicken turns out tender and juicy. Plus, it’s easy to make with minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
how to make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
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 (for garnish)
- Extra Parmesan cheese (for serving)
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions
- Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. If you have time, marinate them for 15–20 minutes for extra flavor.
- Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced bell peppers, onion, and chicken broth.
- Cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add the cream cheese and Parmesan cheese to the slow cooker. Stir until melted and creamy. Cook for an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
- Cook the pasta separately according to the package directions until al dente. Drain and stir it into the slow cooker mixture.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, or crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
how to serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Serve this creamy and flavorful pasta in large bowls. You can garnish each serving with fresh parsley, more Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes for added flavor. Pair it with a simple green salad or some crusty bread to complete the meal.
how to store Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should keep well for about 3–4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat until heated through.
tips to make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- If you want to add more vegetables, consider adding spinach or mushrooms.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference. You can use less for milder flavors.
- For a thicker sauce, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with water and add it during the last cooking phase.
variation
Feel free to swap out the pasta type for your favorite, such as fettuccine or whole wheat pasta. You can also use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood twist.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything the night before and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, just throw everything in the slow cooker and set it on low.
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 2 months. Just make sure to allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
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