Introduction
Warm, creamy, and packed with flavor, this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a meal that your family will adore. Let the slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day, and come home to a delightful dish that features tender chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and perfectly cooked pasta—all in one pot!
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1 (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 7 hours
Total Time: 7 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the bottom of the crock pot.
- Add the diced onion, diced bell pepper, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- In a bowl, combine the cream of chicken soup, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth and pour over the ingredients in the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken back to the pot.
- Stir in the penne pasta and heavy cream. Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked.
- Once the pasta is ready, stir in the mozzarella cheese until melted and creamy.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes or Tips
- For extra spice, consider adding chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes.
- Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp for a delightful twist.
- This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it great for meal prep!
Cooking Techniques
Achieving a creamy texture in this dish relies on the slow cooking method, which allows the chicken to tenderize and the flavors to meld beautifully. The crock pot ensures that everything cooks evenly and infuses the pasta with Cajun goodness.
FAQ
- Can I use a different type of pasta? Yes, but adjust the cooking time accordingly for different pasta shapes.
- Is this dish gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta and check the cream of chicken soup for gluten-free options.
- Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, you can freeze the dish, but the pasta may change texture upon thawing.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is not just about convenience; it’s a hearty, soul-satisfying dish that brings warmth to any table. With minimal prep and an abundance of flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. Enjoy every mouthful!