Description
Make this Crock Pot creamy Cajun chicken pasta for an easy weeknight dinner with juicy chicken, bold spices, and a silky sauce that’s full of flavor. Tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and pasta soak up a rich, spicy-smooth sauce with just the right amount of heat. Everything cooks low and slow for melt-in-your-mouth texture and effortless cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small yellow onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 ounces penne pasta
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub to coat evenly.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Sear chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side until lightly golden.
- Transfer chicken to the slow cooker. Add sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic on top.
- Pour diced tomatoes with juices and chicken broth over the vegetables.
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours until the chicken reaches 165°F internally.
- Remove chicken and shred it with two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth.
- Cook pasta in boiling water according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
- Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and stir to coat in sauce.
- Let the mixture warm together for 15 to 20 minutes on low until creamy and thickened.
- Serve hot, sprinkled with chopped parsley.
Notes
- This recipe uses Cajun seasoning for heat; adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
- Shredding the chicken while warm makes the process easier.
- The sauce thickens as it rests with the pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: American