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Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A comforting and creamy Cajun pasta dish made with tender chicken and delicious spices, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 500
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts Look for organic when possible for better flavor.
  • 1 tbsp olive oil Extra virgin is recommended for a richer taste.
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Homemade is great if you have it!
  • 1 tsp garlic powder Fresh garlic is even better!
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika Adds a nice depth of flavor.
  • 1 tsp salt
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 medium bell pepper Sliced (any color, but red or yellow adds sweetness).
  • 1 small onion Sliced.
  • 3 cloves garlic Minced (adjust to taste).
  • 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with juices Fire-roasted makes this extra flavorful!
  • 1 cup chicken broth Homemade or low-sodium store-bought.
  • 1 cup heavy cream For that irresistible creamy finish.
  • ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese Freshly grated is always best!
  • 12 oz penne pasta Or your pasta of choice.
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley Chopped (for garnish).

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, drizzle the chicken breasts with olive oil. Season generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub the seasonings into the chicken for even coating.
  2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden brown.
  3. Transfer the seared chicken to your slow cooker. Add the bell peppers, onions, and minced garlic on top. Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and add the chicken broth. Cover and set your slow cooker on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
  4. Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
  5. Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well blended and creamy.
  6. Cook the penne pasta separately according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and then stir it into the slow cooker.
  7. Let everything simmer together on low for an additional 15-20 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving hot.

Notes

Can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Freezing is an option, but freeze the pasta separately for best texture upon reheating.