This Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken, creamy sauce, and zesty spices come together for a warm, comforting meal that’s super simple to make!
You just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it work its magic. Perfect on busy days when you want something delicious without a lot of fuss! Yum! 🍝
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy to shred. For a twist, use thighs! They stay juicier and are full of flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds a kick! If you don’t have any, make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne. Adjust to your spice preference!
Bell Peppers: Red and yellow peppers sweeten the dish. Feel free to swap them out for green peppers or even frozen mixed peppers. They work just as well!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, use half-and-half or even unsweetened almond milk. This will change the creaminess slightly but still gives a nice consistency.
Cheese: Cheddar is a crowd-pleaser, but you can use pepper jack for some heat or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Get Tender Shredded Chicken?
Getting your chicken tender is all about cooking it slowly. Here’s how to ensure it cooks perfectly:
- Season the chicken well with salt, pepper, and Cajun seasoning.
- Layer the vegetables first in the slow cooker; this helps them cook down and keep the chicken moist.
- Cook on low for longer (4-6 hours) for the best texture!
- When chicken is done, use two forks to shred it easily; it should fall apart without effort.
These simple tips help make sure your chicken is juicy and flavorful! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g. Rotel)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 8 ounces uncooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or a blend of cheddar and mozzarella
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This dish takes about 15 minutes to prep, plus 4-6 hours to cook on low or 2-3 hours on high. With just a little bit of hands-on time, you’ll have a delicious, hassle-free meal waiting for you when it’s time to eat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts on both sides with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. This gives it that delicious flavor throughout the dish!
2. Prepare the Vegetables:
In the bottom of your slow cooker, place the sliced red and yellow bell peppers, onion, and minced garlic. This mix will cook beautifully and add great taste to the final dish.
3. Layer the Chicken:
Lay the seasoned chicken breasts right on top of the vegetables. This helps to keep them moist and flavorful as they cook.
4. Add the Sauces:
Pour the diced tomatoes with green chilies and chicken broth over the chicken. You’ll love the zesty kick from the tomatoes!
5. Cook It Up:
Cover your slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the chicken to be nice and tender!
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred it into pieces and set aside.
7. Combine the Pasta:
Add the uncooked pasta, heavy cream, and shredded cheese to the slow cooker. Stir everything together nicely to combine.
8. Return the Chicken:
Put the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and mix everything evenly. This way, the chicken gets coated in that creamy, cheesy goodness!
9. Finish Cooking:
Cover and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes. This is until the pasta is tender and the sauce is nice and creamy. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
10. Taste and Adjust:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if you like it spicier!
11. Serve with a Smile:
Serve this delicious dish hot, and if you want, garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color!
Enjoy your easy, creamy, and flavorful Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so, as frozen chicken takes longer to cook through. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe to eat.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prep the ingredients in advance and store them in the fridge. Just cook it as directed when you’re ready to eat. Alternatively, you can prepare the entire dish and refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
What If I Don’t Have Cajun Seasoning?
No worries! You can create your own Cajun seasoning by combining paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme, oregano, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Adjust the spice level to suit your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through. You can add a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce if it thickens too much.
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions about the recipe! Enjoy your cooking!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to extend the cooking time by an hour or so, as frozen chicken takes longer to cook through. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
