Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a cozy, easy meal that mixes tender chicken, creamy sauce, and a little spicy kick from Cajun seasoning. It’s all cooked together low and slow in the crock pot, which means the flavors really blend and the chicken comes out perfectly juicy and flavorful.
I love making this dish when I want something comforting but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. The best part is that you can set it up in the morning and come home to a warm, hearty dinner waiting for you. I usually add some bell peppers or a little extra seasoning to give it my own twist.
For me, this pasta feels like a little celebration on a weeknight. I like serving it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread to soak up all that creamy sauce. It’s the kind of dish that everyone asks me to make again, and it always brings a smile to the table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: I like using boneless skinless chicken breasts because they cook evenly and shred nicely. You can swap for chicken thighs if you want juicier, more flavorful meat.
Cajun seasoning: This adds the spicy kick. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, you can mix paprika, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano to make your own blend.
Heavy cream: The cream makes the sauce rich and smooth. For a lighter version, try half-and-half, or use coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
Parmesan cheese: Adds a nice sharp flavor and creamy texture. Pecorino Romano or Asiago are good substitutes if you want a sharper taste.
Penne pasta: Penne holds the sauce well, but feel free to use rigatoni, ziti, or rotini depending on what you have.
How Can You Make Sure the Pasta Cooks Perfectly in the Crock Pot?
Cooking pasta in the crock pot can be tricky because it might get mushy or uneven. Here’s what I do:
- Add the uncooked pasta only after the chicken is cooked and shredded. This prevents pasta from overcooking during the long crock pot time.
- Use the high setting when cooking the pasta to speed up the cooking and keep it firm.
- Stir occasionally during pasta cooking time to keep the noodles from sticking together.
- Keep an eye on the liquid – make sure there’s enough creamy sauce or chicken broth so the pasta can absorb moisture without drying out.
Following these steps helps you get perfectly tender pasta with no mushy bits, and all the flavors blend nicely!
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock Pot or slow cooker – I use mine to set it and forget it while the flavors develop slowly.
- Skillet – for searing the chicken quickly to add extra flavor with a nice browned crust.
- Measuring spoons and cups – to ensure accurate seasoning and liquid parts.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping garlic and onion.
- Forks or tongs – for shredding the cooked chicken easily.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – to stir ingredients in the crock pot without scratching.
- Colander or strainer – to drain pasta if you want a separate batch; optional if cooking directly in crock pot.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add cooked sausage or shrimp to boost protein and flavor. Both pair well with Cajun spices for a seafood or meat combo.
- Mix in sautéed bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for extra veggies and color.
- Sprinkle extra cheese like Pepper Jack or Gouda at the end for a different cheesy twist.
- Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free version with a hint of sweetness.
Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 1/2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare, including searing the chicken and prepping ingredients. Cooking in the crock pot takes 4-5 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. After shredding the chicken, add pasta and cook for another 20-30 minutes until tender. In total, plan for around 5 hours if cooking on low, or just under 3.5 hours on high.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare and Sear the Chicken:
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts on both sides with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat the olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until nicely browned. This step adds flavor but is optional. Once seared, place the chicken in your crock pot.
2. Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot:
Add the minced garlic, chopped onion (if using), chicken broth, heavy cream, and the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to the crock pot. Stir gently to mix everything together.
3. Slow Cook the Chicken:
Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked and tender.
4. Shred the Chicken and Add Pasta:
Carefully remove the cooked chicken breasts and shred them with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot, then add the uncooked penne pasta. Stir to combine all ingredients.
5. Cook the Pasta:
Cover and cook on high for another 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure the pasta cooks evenly and doesn’t stick together. The pasta should be tender but not mushy.
6. Finish with Cheese and Seasoning:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste the dish and add salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning if you like it spicier.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Dish out the pasta and garnish with fresh parsley or chives and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you enjoy a little extra heat. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun chicken pasta!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but make sure to thaw them completely before starting. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for faster thawing. This helps ensure even cooking in the crock pot.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare and cook the chicken part in advance, then refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, just add the pasta and cook until tender. This saves time on busy days.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick.
Can I Substitute the Pasta?
Yes! Penne is great, but you can use rigatoni, rotini, or ziti. Just keep an eye on cooking time as some shapes might cook a little faster or slower in the crock pot.