This Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a quick one-pot meal bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken and colorful veggies are mixed with creamy sauce and tasty spices.
Honestly, it feels like a party in your slow cooker! I love how the chicken gets super tender, and the pasta cooks perfectly. It’s a cozy dish perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: I prefer boneless, skinless chicken breasts for this dish because they cook up tender and juicy. If you want to lower the fat, chicken thighs can work well too and bring a richer flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a nice kick! If you don’t have it on hand, a mix of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper can be a great substitute. Adjust to your heat preference!
Bell Peppers: I like using red and green bell peppers for color and crunch. Feel free to substitute with yellow or orange peppers, or even throw in some zucchini for extra veggies.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or even milk can be used, but the sauce may not be as rich and creamy. You can also use coconut milk for a dairy-free version!
Pasta: Penna pasta works great here, but you can use fusilli or even gluten-free pasta if needed. Just make sure to adjust cooking time based on the type of pasta you choose.
How Do I Get Tender Shredded Chicken?
Getting perfectly tender shredded chicken is all about the cooking time and method! Here are some tips:
- Keep the slow cooker covered to trap steam, which helps cook the chicken evenly.
- Searing the chicken first adds flavor and helps lock in juices, so don’t skip this step!
- After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before shredding. This prevents it from becoming too dry.
- Use two forks to shred the chicken gently, avoiding overworking it, which helps maintain moisture.
This process will ensure your chicken is moist and full of flavor, perfect for mixing back into that creamy pasta. Enjoy cooking!
Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Dish:
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
For the Sauce:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
For the Pasta:
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
Optional Ingredients:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Total Time Needed:
This recipe requires about 10-15 minutes for prep and 4-5 hours of cooking time on low (or 2-3 hours on high). A perfect dish for starting early and coming home to a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
First, rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning on both sides. This helps to infuse the chicken with flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sear the chicken breasts until browned on both sides, about 2-3 minutes for each side. This step enhances the flavor and locks in moisture.
3. Set It Up in the Crock Pot:
Place the seared chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Then add sliced red and green bell peppers, chopped onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
4. Add the Liquids:
Pour the chicken broth over all the ingredients. This will ensure everything stays moist and delicious while cooking.
5. Cooking Time:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. The house will smell amazing during this time!
6. Shred the Chicken:
Remove the chicken from the crock pot, and shred it using two forks. It should come apart easily if cooked properly!
7. Combine with Pasta and Cream:
Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot, then add the uncooked penne pasta and heavy cream (or half-and-half). Stir everything well to combine.
8. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the crock pot again and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is cooked to your liking.
9. Final Touches:
If you’d like, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese at the end and allow it to melt in. This makes the dish extra creamy and flavorful.
10. Season and Garnish:
Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if needed. Finally, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions before serving.
Enjoy your creamy, spicy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta! It’s a delightful meal that’s sure to warm your heart!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just ensure that your slow cooker can handle it, as cooking time may increase. To thaw quickly, submerge the sealed chicken in cold water for about 30 minutes, then follow the recipe as usual.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or almond milk, but be aware that the flavor may change slightly.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and veggies in advance, store them in the fridge for up to a day, and then cook them in the slow cooker when you’re ready. Just add the pasta during the last cooking stage.
