Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that perfectly balances rich flavors and comfort. Ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining guests, this recipe showcases tender chicken simmered in a creamy, zesty sauce with the perfect kick of Cajun spices. With minimal effort required, you can create a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless Cooking: Simply toss all ingredients into the crock pot and let it do the work for you.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of Cajun seasoning, garlic, and fresh vegetables ensures every bite is packed with taste.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this dish pleases both adults and kids alike.
- Creamy Comfort: The addition of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luscious texture that elevates the chicken pasta experience.
- One-Pot Meal: Enjoy easy cleanup with this all-in-one dish that leaves more time for you to relax.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Slow cooker: This is where the magic happens! It allows for low-and-slow cooking, making chicken tender and flavorful.
- Cutting board: A stable surface for chopping vegetables ensures safety while preparing your ingredients.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes quick work of chopping onions and slicing bell peppers.
- Mixing spoon: Use this to combine ingredients effortlessly without scratching your crock pot.
Ingredients
A rich and flavorful blend of tender chicken, Cajun spices, and creamy pasta all slow-cooked to perfection in a crockpot. Get ready for a zesty and comforting culinary experience!
For the Chicken
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
For the Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
For the Broth Base
- 1 can (14 ounces) chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
For the Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
For the Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces penne pasta
To Taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Slice your bell peppers, chop your onion, and mince your garlic so everything is ready to go.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot
Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts in the crock pot. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over them.
Next:
1. Add the chicken broth.
2. Mix in minced garlic, chopped onion, sliced red bell pepper, and sliced green bell pepper.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is cooked through.
Step 4: Shred the Chicken
Once cooked:
1. Remove the chicken from the crock pot.
2. Shred it using two forks.
Return shredded chicken back into the crock pot.
Step 5: Add Cream and Pasta
Stir in heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and uncooked penne pasta.
Step 6: Finish Cooking
Cover again:
– Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until pasta is tender.
Step 7: Season & Serve
Finally:
– Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
– Serve garnished with freshly chopped parsley for added flavor!
How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to elevate your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will surely impress your family and friends.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped parsley: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that complements the dish.
- Chives: Finely chopped chives provide a mild onion flavor that enhances the overall taste.
Pair with a Salad
- Caesar salad: A classic Caesar salad with crisp romaine and creamy dressing balances the richness of the pasta.
- Garden salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes can refresh your palate.
Serve with Bread
- Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Crusty baguette: A slice of crusty baguette adds texture and pairs well with the flavors of the dish.
Include Some Veggies
- Steamed broccoli: Tender steamed broccoli provides nutrients and adds a vibrant green color to the plate.
- Roasted asparagus: Roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon juice offers a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
How to Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
To ensure your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh spices: Always opt for fresh Cajun seasoning for maximum flavor. Old spices may lose their potency over time.
- Cook on low heat: Cooking on low allows the flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the chicken tender.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Add pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Adjust creaminess: Feel free to add more heavy cream or Parmesan cheese if you prefer an even creamier sauce.
Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is delicious on its own but pairs wonderfully with certain side dishes. Here are some ideal options:
- Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the creamy pasta perfectly.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce topped with parmesan and croutons provides a refreshing contrast.
- Steamed Green Beans: Lightly steamed green beans add crunch and freshness without overpowering the main dish.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw balances out the richness of the pasta and adds some crunch.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables offer depth and additional nutrients to your meal.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a fun side that pairs well with spicy dishes like this one.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to steer clear of:
- Neglecting to Season: Not seasoning the chicken before cooking can lead to bland flavors. Always use Cajun seasoning generously for a flavorful dish.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking the pasta too long in the crock pot can make it mushy. Add it towards the end of cooking and check for doneness.
- Ignoring Chicken Quality: Using low-quality chicken can affect the overall taste. Opt for fresh, high-quality boneless, skinless chicken breasts for best results.
- Skipping the Garnish: Forgetting to garnish with parsley can make your dish look less appealing. A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness.
- Rushing the Cooking Process: Trying to cook on high when low is recommended can result in uneven cooking. Stick to low for tender, juicy chicken.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- It stays fresh for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
- It can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring every minute until warm throughout.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and creamy pasta, all cooked slowly in a crock pot.
How do I customize this recipe?
You can add different vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms. Additionally, adjusting the level of Cajun seasoning allows you to control the spice level according to your preference.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! While penne is used here, you can substitute with fusilli, rotini, or even gluten-free pasta if desired.
How do I know when my chicken is done?
The chicken is cooked through when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). It should shred easily with forks when fully cooked.
Final Thoughts
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is not only a comforting meal but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize this dish by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spices. Give it a try and enjoy a warm, hearty dinner that’s sure to please everyone at your table!
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a deliciously comforting dish that combines tender chicken with a rich, creamy sauce infused with zesty Cajun spices. This easy slow cooker recipe allows you to throw everything into the pot and let it work its magic, perfect for busy weeknights or when entertaining guests. With just a handful of ingredients, including juicy chicken breasts, fresh bell peppers, and creamy Parmesan cheese, this hearty meal is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. Pair it with a crisp salad or some warm garlic bread for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 can (14 ounces) chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 12 ounces penne pasta
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by chopping vegetables and mincing garlic.
- Place chicken in the slow cooker and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning.
- Add chicken broth, garlic, onion, and bell peppers.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3-4 hours until chicken is cooked through.
- Shred chicken using two forks and return to the crock pot.
- Stir in heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, and uncooked penne pasta.
- Cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes or until pasta is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 hours
- Category: Main
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
