This Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a warm and comforting dish, packed with juicy chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and creamy sauce. It’s as simple as toss, cook, and enjoy!
When I make this, I love how the flavors blend together while I do absolutely nothing. Perfect for busy days when dinner just magically sorts itself out! 🍝✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the best choice for this recipe as they stay tender and juicy. You can swap them for thighs if you prefer dark meat or if you want a richer flavor.
Cajun Seasoning: This blend is what gives the dish its signature kick! If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can mix paprika, garlic, and black pepper for a similar taste. Adjust the spice according to how much heat you like.
Pasta: I love using penne for its perfect sauce-holding shape. However, feel free to use any pasta like fusilli, farfalle, or bow tie. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
Cream: Heavy cream adds richness, but if you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even coconut milk can work here. Just keep in mind the flavor will slightly change.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Turns Out Perfectly Shredded?
Shredded chicken is a key element here! To ensure it’s perfectly shredded, follow these tips:
- Cook the chicken until it’s tender and easily falls apart—timing is key, so don’t rush it!
- Use two forks to pull apart the meat gently. Start from the thicker end to make it easier.
- For a time-saving option, you can toss the cooked chicken into your stand mixer with the paddle attachment for quick shredding!
By taking care with these steps, you’ll have perfectly shredded chicken to mix back into your pasta, making each bite delicious.
Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (e.g., Rotel)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz penne pasta or any pasta shape you prefer
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious meal will take about 15 minutes to prep and then 4-5 hours to cook on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crock pot. Simply set it and forget it! The end result is a comforting, creamy pasta dish that everyone will love.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Get Your Crock Pot Ready:
Start by spraying the inside of your crock pot with non-stick spray. This helps everything not stick and makes for easier cleanup later.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts directly into the crock pot. Make sure they’re laying flat so they cook evenly.
3. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the chicken to coat it well with those delicious spices!
4. Add the Liquids:
Pour the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) over the chicken. Then, add the chicken broth and the heavy cream to bring a rich, creamy flavor to the dish.
5. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crock pot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the chicken to be tender and fully cooked through before shredding.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. It should fall apart easily if it’s cooked right!
7. Cook the Pasta:
While the chicken is cooking, you can prepare your pasta. In a large pot, boil salted water and cook the pasta according to the package directions until al dente. Drain it and set it aside.
8. Combine Cheeses:
Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir in the shredded Parmesan and mozzarella cheeses. Let it mix until everything is melted and creamy.
9. Mix in the Pasta:
Add the cooked pasta to the crock pot and gently stir until all the pasta is well-coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
10. Final Touches:
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning if you like it spicier. Your flavorful meal is almost ready!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the Cajun chicken pasta hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chopped green onions. It’s ready for everyone to dig in and enjoy!
Happy cooking! Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Easy 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 breasts; just be sure to extend the cooking time by about 1-2 hours on low or 30-60 minutes on high. It’s best to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) before shredding.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of cream or chicken broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or use firm tofu. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, cooking only until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper. You can always add more spice at the end if desired, but it’s best to start low if you’re unsure!
