Description
This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a hands-off dinner. Tender chicken breasts are slow-cooked with Cajun seasoning, garlic, onions, and bell peppers, then combined with creamy Parmesan sauce and penne pasta for a rich, hearty meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables and Broth
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (14 ounces) chicken broth
Sauce and Pasta
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the crock pot and evenly sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the top to infuse the meat with flavorful spices.
- Add Aromatics and Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, then add the minced garlic, chopped onion, and sliced red and green bell peppers around the chicken to create a fragrant and savory base.
- Slow Cook the Chicken: Cover the crock pot and cook on low heat for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked through.
- Shred Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts and shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks, then return the shredded chicken to the crock pot to blend with the juices.
- Add Cream, Cheese, and Pasta: Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and uncooked penne pasta into the crock pot, ensuring the pasta is submerged in the liquid for even cooking.
- Cook Pasta: Cover again and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes until the pasta is al dente and tender, absorbing the creamy sauce.
- Season and Serve: Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving to add color and a fresh herbal note.
Notes
- You can adjust the level of Cajun seasoning depending on your preference for spice.
- Use a low-sodium chicken broth to control salt levels in the dish.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the creamy liquid slightly before adding pasta.
- Fresh parsley adds a bright garnish but can be omitted if unavailable.
- Ensure the pasta is fully submerged in the cooking liquid to cook evenly.
