This Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a one-pot meal that’s packed with flavor! Juicy chicken, zesty spices, and creamy sauce come together with pasta for a tasty treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this recipe. If you’re looking for variety, you could use thighs for extra moisture or even shrimp if you’re keen on seafood.
Cajun Seasoning: This adds the signature flavor twist! If you want to control the heat, make your own blend with paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne. You can also opt for a milder seasoning if it’s for kids.
Pasta: Penne or rotini is perfect because they hold the sauce well. Don’t have those? Fusilli or farfalle can work too. If you’re gluten-free, try chickpea or rice pasta instead!
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its creamy texture, but for a lighter option, half-and-half or even evaporated milk can be used. If you’re dairy-free, coconut milk can add richness too.
How Do You Ensure Your Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken in a crock pot is easy, but timing is key. Start by searing it; that adds flavor! Here’s how to make sure it comes out tender:
- Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Don’t lift the lid too often while cooking; it lets the heat escape and can prolong cooking time.
- After cooking, let the chicken rest before shredding. This keeps it juicy!
With these tips, you’ll have a deliciously creamy and satisfying meal ready to enjoy!
Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 8 oz uncooked penne or rotini pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or a Cajun cheese blend)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 10 minutes of prep time and a total cook time of 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high in the crock pot. After you throw everything in, let it cook and enjoy the delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season the Chicken:
Start by lightly seasoning the chicken breasts with the Cajun seasoning on both sides. This will infuse flavor right from the start!
2. Sear the Chicken (Optional):
If you want to build more flavor, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Lightly sear the chicken breasts for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This adds a nice depth to the dish but is completely optional.
3. Assemble in the Crock Pot:
Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of the crock pot. Then add the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, minced garlic, and drained diced tomatoes on top.
4. Add Liquids:
Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream (or half-and-half) over the ingredients in the crock pot. This will create the creamy base for your pasta.
5. Set to Cook:
Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You want the chicken to be cooked through and tender when ready.
6. Shred the Chicken:
Once the cooking time is done, carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred it using two forks. It should break apart easily!
7. Add the Pasta:
Add the uncooked penne or rotini pasta to the crock pot and stir it into the sauce well. This step makes sure the pasta absorbs all the delicious flavors.
8. Return the Chicken:
Put the shredded chicken back into the crock pot and mix everything thoroughly.
9. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the crock pot and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes or until the pasta is tender. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
10. Add Cheese and Season:
Once the pasta is ready, stir in the shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy goodness. Taste your dish, and feel free to adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more Cajun seasoning if you like it spicier!
11. Garnish and Serve:
Finally, garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving. Enjoy your homemade creamy, spicy, and comforting 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! Just add an extra hour to the cooking time on low or 30 minutes on high to ensure it cooks through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use half-and-half or even evaporated milk. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works great and adds a hint of sweetness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat in the microwave or on the stove; just add a splash of broth or cream to revive the creamy texture.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Absolutely! Feel free to add more Cajun seasoning, or toss in some red pepper flakes for an extra kick. You can also use spicy sausage or diced jalapeños for additional heat.
