Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
A hearty and creamy pasta dish made with tender chicken, vibrant bell peppers, and a rich cheese sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Optional: for browning the chicken
For the Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 0.5 yellow onion sliced
For the Sauce and Pasta
- 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, for serving
Instructions
Preparation
- Season the chicken by combining Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Rub this mixture onto the chicken breasts evenly.
- Optional: Marinate the chicken for 15 to 20 minutes for extra flavor.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Briefly sear the chicken until lightly browned, then transfer it to the slow cooker.
- Add sliced red and green bell peppers and onion to the slow cooker.
- Pour chicken broth over the chicken and veggies.
Cooking
- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
- Once cooked, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks and return it to the slow cooker.
- Add cream cheese and shredded Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and integrated into the broth to create a creamy sauce.
- Cover and cook on low for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain well.
- Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and gently toss everything together.
Serving
- Serve immediately in large, shallow bowls, garnished with parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
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Notes
Adjust the spice level by using more or less Cajun seasoning. For a creamier sauce, use high-quality cheese. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.