Introduction
Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a delightful bowl of Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta! This dish brings the rich, zesty flavors of Cajun cuisine right to your dinner table with minimal effort. Let your slow cooker do the hard work while you savor the comforting aromas wafting through your kitchen.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers (red, green, yellow)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 ounces cream cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 12 ounces penne pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot and season with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top of the chicken.
- Pour the diced tomatoes and chicken broth over the vegetables and chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Once the chicken is done, shred it in the crock pot using two forks.
- Add the cream cheese and heavy cream; stir until well combined and creamy.
- Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions; drain.
- Stir the cooked pasta into the crock pot mixture until evenly coated.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese.
Notes or Tips
- Feel free to customize with your favorite vegetables.
- If you like it spicier, add more Cajun seasoning or a dash of hot sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Cooking Techniques
For this recipe, a slow cooker is essential to achieve the tender, fall-apart texture of the chicken while allowing the flavors to meld beautifully over time.
FAQ
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, you can, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- What can I substitute for cream cheese? Greek yogurt works well for a lighter option.
- Is this recipe gluten-free? Use gluten-free pasta to make it suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Conclusion
With its creamy texture and bold flavors, this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is perfect for those busy weeknights when comfort food is a must. Gather your family, serve it up, and enjoy the satisfying warmth that only a hearty, homemade meal can provide!