Name: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-487919H30M7S
Total time: PT-487919H30M7S
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 yellow onion, sliced; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Extra Parmesan cheese, for garnish; Crushed red pepper flakes, for garnish

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This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate comfort food for those nights when you want something big on flavor but easy on effort. Imagine juicy shredded chicken, colorful bell peppers, and pasta all swimming in a rich, Cajun-spiced creamy sauce — it’s a dish that tastes like you’ve spent all day in the kitchen, when really your slow cooker has done most of the work! Irresistibly hearty and packed with just the right amount of kick, this pasta is guaranteed to become a weeknight favorite you’ll crave again and again.

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this recipe plays an important role in building layers of flavor, creamy texture, and beautiful color. While the list is simple, each component contributes something special that will make your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta truly memorable.

Chicken breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for easy shredding and lean protein that soaks up all the flavors.
Cajun seasoning: This robust spice blend delivers bold Southern flavor and a gentle heat that defines the dish.
Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and gorgeous color to the sauce.
Garlic powder: For that irresistible background savory note without the fuss of mincing garlic.
Salt and pepper: Season the chicken and sauce to taste, enhancing all the other ingredients.
Olive oil: Helps distribute the seasoning and keeps the chicken moist during cooking.
Red bell pepper: Brings sweetness and a pop of bright color to the finished dish.
Green bell pepper: Offers a mild, slightly bitter contrast that balances the other flavors.
Yellow onion: Adds gentle sweetness and depth to the sauce as it cooks down.
Chicken broth: Provides richness and ensures your chicken and veggies stay juicy in the crock pot.
Cream cheese: The secret to that ultra-luxurious, creamy sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that boosts the creaminess and flavor.
Penne or rotini pasta: Use sturdy shapes so they grab onto all that glorious sauce.
Fresh parsley: Finishes the dish with freshness and a pop of green.
Extra Parmesan cheese: For sprinkling over the top just before serving — the more, the merrier!
Crushed red pepper flakes: Optional, but perfect for those who want to dial up the heat.

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by rubbing the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For even more depth and flavor, let them marinate for 15 to 20 minutes — but don’t worry if you’re short on time; the slow cooker will work its magic either way!

Step 2: Layer in the Crock Pot

Carefully add the seasoned chicken to the bottom of your slow cooker. Top it with the sliced red and green bell peppers, onions, and pour in the chicken broth. This arrangement lets the vegetables infuse their sweet and savory notes directly into the chicken while it cooks low and slow.

Step 3: Let It Cook

Cover and cook everything on low for 6 to 7 hours (or on high for 3 to 4 hours if you’re in a hurry). As the hours pass, your kitchen will fill with those irresistible Cajun aromas, and the chicken will become unbelievably tender and juicy.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot so it can soak up even more flavor from the simmering broth and veggies.

Step 5: Make It Creamy

Scatter the cubes of cream cheese and shredded Parmesan over the mixture in the slow cooker. Stir everything together until the cheeses melt into a silky, indulgent sauce. Let it cook for another 10 to 15 minutes on low so all the flavors meld.

Step 6: Cook and Add Pasta

While the sauce finishes, cook the pasta separately in a pot of salted boiling water until just al dente. Don’t overcook! Drain it well, then stir the pasta right into the crock pot, coating every noodle in that luscious creamy Cajun sauce.

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Serve your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta hot from the slow cooker, garnished with fresh parsley, more Parmesan, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little extra zip.

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

The right garnish can really make your dish pop! For Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, sprinkle on an extra shower of Parmesan cheese and a handful of chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness. If you love a kick, a few pinches of crushed red pepper flakes add a beautiful touch of heat and color.

Side Dishes

This pasta is a showstopper on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a lemony vinaigrette, or some warm, crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce from your plate. Steamed broccoli or roasted asparagus also make fantastic companions if you want a little something extra on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pile the Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta into shallow bowls and top with a swirl of extra cream, or serve in a family-style platter for sharing. For gatherings, you can serve it straight from the slow cooker to keep it hot, letting everyone customize their bowl with their favorite toppings like pepper flakes or extra cheese.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers of this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta are just as delicious the next day! Transfer cooled pasta into airtight containers and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before storing, make sure everything is well mixed so the sauce stays silky.

Freezing

If you want to freeze your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, let it cool completely before portioning into freezer-safe bags or containers. Lay flat in the freezer for easy stacking and try to use within 2 months for the best texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating; note that creamy sauces may separate slightly upon thawing, but a good stir will bring things back together.

Reheating

When ready to enjoy again, reheat your pasta gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or chicken broth if the sauce looks a little thick. Stir often to keep it creamy and heat until it’s piping hot throughout. It’s just as comforting for lunch or dinner the second time around!

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring even more flavor and stay wonderfully moist during slow cooking. Just be sure to remove any excess fat before shredding, if desired.

Is there a way to make this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta spicier?

You can definitely turn up the heat by adding more Cajun seasoning, a dash of cayenne, or extra crushed red pepper flakes. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the spice level to your liking.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes — any short, sturdy pasta like rigatoni, fusilli, or even cavatappi works well. Just make sure to cook it separately until barely al dente so it doesn’t get mushy in the sauce.

What if I don’t have cream cheese?

No cream cheese? You can substitute with mascarpone or even a splash of heavy cream, although the texture will be a bit different. The sauce may not be as thick, but it will still be wonderfully creamy and delicious.

Can I prep this dish ahead of time?

Definitely! You can rub and marinate the chicken, slice the veggies, and even shred the cheese the night before. In the morning, just layer everything in the crock pot and go about your day — dinner will be ready when you are.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a cozy, flavor-packed meal to bring some spice to your week, give Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta a try. It’s a foolproof crowd-pleaser that’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to serve to friends. Trust me, once you taste how the bold Cajun spices, creamy sauce, and tender chicken come together, you’ll find yourself making it again and again!

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 14 reviews

Author: Olivia
Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes on high, 7 hours 15 minutes on low
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A delicious and creamy Cajun chicken pasta made easy in the crockpot. This recipe combines tender chicken, Cajun spices, bell peppers, onions, and creamy cheese sauce served over pasta.

Instructions

Season Chicken: Rub chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Optionally, marinate for 15–20 minutes.
Cook Chicken: Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker with sliced bell peppers, onion, and chicken broth. Cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.
Shred Chicken: Remove chicken, shred with forks, then return to the slow cooker.
Add Cheese: Add cream cheese and Parmesan. Stir until melted and creamy. Cook an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
Cook Pasta: Cook pasta separately until al dente. Drain and stir into the slow cooker mixture.
Serve: Serve hot, garnished with parsley, extra cheese, or red pepper flakes.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 4 hours on high, 7 hours on low
Category: Main Dish
Method: Slow Cooker
Cuisine: Cajun