If you’re craving a hearty, comforting dish that bursts with bold flavors and velvety creaminess, then this 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine tender chicken infused with spicy Cajun spices, slow-cooked to perfection with vibrant bell peppers and onions, all swirling together in a luscious, cheesy sauce that hugs every perfectly cooked penne noodle. It’s an effortless slow cooker meal that tastes like you spent hours fussing over it, making it a true winner for busy weeknights or anytime you want a soul-satisfying dinner with minimal stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet punchy ingredients, each one carefully chosen to create that classic Cajun flair and creamy texture you’ll love. From the aromatic Cajun seasoning to the rich cream cheese and Parmesan, every component plays a crucial role in bringing this dish to life.
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The tender protein base that soaks up all the fabulous seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning: Adds that unmistakable spicy, smoky kick essential to Cajun cuisine.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Boosts color and depth with a subtle smoky sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Gives a warm, mellow garlic background without overwhelming.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory notes for well-rounded flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Just enough to lift and balance all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Provides gentle heat and complexity.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Adds sweetness and vibrant color contrast.
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Brings a fresh, slightly bitter crunch that complements the richness.
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced: Contributes natural sweetness and aroma.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic sharpens and brightens the dish.
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained: Introduces a gentle tang and mild heat for extra dimension.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and flavorful during slow cooking.
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed: The secret weapon for ultra-creamy texture and richness.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Elevates the sauce with luxurious smoothness.
- 12 ounces penne pasta: The perfect sturdy noodle to soak up the creamy Cajun sauce.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finishing touch to the sauce.
- Chopped parsley for garnish: A fresh, green pop that brightens each serving.
How to Make 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. This is where all the magic begins as the chicken will soak up every bit of flavor. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper evenly over the chicken. This spice blend is essential for giving the dish its authentic Cajun spirit and mouthwatering aroma that will fill your kitchen.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Liquids
Layer the sliced red and green bell peppers, along with the yellow onion and freshly minced garlic on top of the chicken. Pour in the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained—this adds vibrant color and a mild, smoky heat that complements the Cajun spices perfectly. Finally, pour in the chicken broth which helps everything cook evenly and keeps the chicken tender and juicy throughout the slow cooking process.
Step 3: Slow Cook Until Tender
Cover your crock pot and set it to low for 4 to 5 hours or, if you’re pressed for time, cook on high for 2 to 3 hours. Throughout this gentle simmer, the chicken becomes beautifully tender and infused with flavors, while the vegetables soften and blend with the savory broth to create the perfect base for the creamy sauce.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken and Add Creamy Ingredients
Once the slow cooker timer dings, carefully remove the chicken breasts and shred them using two forks—this shredding step is what distributes that juicy, spiced chicken throughout the dish, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot, then add the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the cream cheese melts completely, creating a decadent, silky sauce that clings to the chicken and vegetables like a dream.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta and Combine
While the sauce is finishing up, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain the pasta well to prevent any watery sauce. Fold the pasta into the crock pot, stirring in the grated Parmesan cheese until everything is beautifully coated with the creamy Cajun sauce. This step finishes off the dish with cheesy richness and a slightly nutty undertone that makes it irresistible.
How to Serve 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top before serving to add a fresh, herbal brightness and a burst of color. The green parsley balances the richness of the creamy sauce and gives the dish a welcoming, polished look. You can also add a few extra cracks of black pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika for a final touch of flavor.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. For extra comfort, serve alongside crusty garlic bread or warm cornbread to soak up any leftover sauce. If you want to keep things light, steamed green beans or roasted asparagus offer vibrant, crunchy contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the creamy cajun chicken pasta in edible bell pepper “bowls” by hollowing out fresh bell peppers and filling them with the pasta. Another idea is to sprinkle toasted breadcrumbs on top for a delightful crunch or mix in some cooked bacon bits for smoky indulgence. These little presentation details make it feel special and perfect for sharing with guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers of this 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Simply stir gently before reheating to recombine the sauce with the pasta evenly.
Freezing
This creamy Cajun chicken pasta freezes well, making it a fantastic option for batch cooking. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some headspace for expansion, and freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid texture changes in the pasta, it’s best to slightly undercook the noodles if you plan to freeze the dish.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers either on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to evenly warm the creamy sauce without separating. If the sauce thickens too much during storage, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it back up to that perfect, luscious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?
Absolutely! While penne holds the sauce well, other sturdy shapes like rigatoni, fusilli, or even shells will work beautifully. Just make sure the pasta you choose has grooves or tubes to catch all that creamy Cajun goodness.
Is this recipe spicy? Can I adjust the heat level?
This recipe has a medium heat level thanks to the Cajun seasoning and tomatoes with green chilies. You can easily dial it down by reducing the Cajun seasoning or omit the chilies. For more heat, add crushed red pepper flakes or extra Cajun spice to taste.
Can I make this recipe without a crock pot?
Yes! If you don’t have a crock pot, you can cook the chicken and vegetables in a covered skillet or Dutch oven over low heat until the chicken is tender, about 30-40 minutes. Then proceed with adding cream cheese, cream, and pasta as instructed.
Is there a lighter version of this creamy Cajun chicken pasta?
For a lighter twist, try swapping half the cream cheese with Greek yogurt and using a reduced-fat cream or milk instead of heavy cream. It will still be creamy and delicious but with fewer calories and less fat.
Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Definitely! Shrimp, sausage, or even turkey breast are great alternatives. Just adjust cooking times accordingly—shrimp cooks faster, so add it towards the end, while sausage or turkey can be cooked from the start like the chicken.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a fuss-free yet indulgently flavorful meal, this 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe delivers every time. It’s one of those dishes that feels like a celebration with each bite, balancing spice, creaminess, and heartiness in perfect harmony. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how your slow cooker can transform simple ingredients into a seriously memorable dinner. Trust me—you’re going to want this recipe in your regular meal rotation!
Print
5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Description
This 5-Star Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a deliciously hearty and flavorful dish combining tender chicken breasts slow-cooked with Cajun spices, bell peppers, and creamy cheese sauce. The penne pasta is mixed in for a perfectly creamy, comforting meal that’s ideal for easy weeknight dinners with a spicy Southern twist.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
Liquids and Dairy
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Pasta and Cheese
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Sprinkle evenly with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to infuse flavor directly into the meat as it cooks.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: Layer sliced red and green bell peppers, yellow onion, minced garlic, and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained) on top of the seasoned chicken. Pour in 1/2 cup of chicken broth to add moisture and create the base for the sauce.
- Slow Cook the Mixture: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, until the chicken is completely cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot and shred them thoroughly using two forks. Return the shredded chicken back into the crock pot with the vegetables and juices.
- Create the Creamy Sauce: Add the cubed cream cheese and heavy cream into the crock pot. Stir gently until the cream cheese is completely melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy, coating all the ingredients.
- Cook the Pasta: While the sauce finishes, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain well to prevent extra water from thinning the sauce.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the drained pasta into the crock pot. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until the pasta is fully coated with the creamy Cajun sauce and evenly mixed with the chicken and vegetables.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the top as a fresh finishing touch. Serve the creamy Cajun chicken pasta hot for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can adjust the spice level by increasing or decreasing the amount of Cajun seasoning or adding crushed red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- For a lighter and tangier sauce, substitute part of the cream cheese with Greek yogurt.
- This recipe adapts well with shrimp or sausage as an alternative to chicken.
