Spicy Southern Comfort: Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Creamy, spicy, and packed with flavor, this crock pot Cajun chicken pasta recipe delivers a mouthwatering meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Tender chicken simmers in a rich, zesty sauce that captures the essence of louisiana cuisine.

The slow cooker works its magic, infusing every bite with bold Cajun spices and hearty goodness.

Each forkful promises a perfect blend of comfort and excitement on your dinner plate.

Weeknight dinners just got a whole lot more interesting with this simple yet impressive dish.

Prepare to be transported to the vibrant culinary landscape of the bayou with minimal effort and maximum taste.

Grab your ingredients and let the slow cooker do the heavy lifting for an unforgettable meal.

Why Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Works

• Dive into a mouthwatering one-pot meal that delivers bold, spicy flavors with minimal kitchen effort.
• Crock Pot magic transforms simple ingredients into a creamy, delicious dish that requires zero culinary expertise.
• Packed with kid-approved pasta and tender chicken, this recipe satisfies everyone from picky eaters to spice lovers.
• Enjoy a hearty dinner without drowning in dirty dishes – everything cooks and combines in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze.

What Goes in Cajun Chicken Pasta

Main Ingredients:

• Chicken Breasts: The primary protein that absorbs the rich Cajun flavors during slow cooking.

• Penne Pasta: The hearty pasta that soaks up the creamy Cajun sauce and completes the dish.

Sauce and Seasoning Ingredients:

• Heavy Cream, Butter, Parmesan Cheese: Create a rich, creamy base that adds depth and smoothness to the pasta.

• Cajun Seasoning, Garlic Powder: Provide the signature spicy and aromatic Cajun flavor profile to the dish.

• Chicken Broth: Adds moisture and enhances the overall savory taste of the recipe.

Making Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prepare Flavor-Packed Chicken Base

• Chicken breasts
• Heavy cream
• Chicken broth
• Butter
• Cajun seasoning
• Garlic powder

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours.

The slow cooking process allows the chicken to soak up all the delicious Cajun-inspired flavors.

Keep the lid closed to maintain consistent heat and cooking momentum.

Step 2: Transform Chicken Texture

Remove the cooked chicken and shred it completely using two forks.

Shredding helps the meat blend seamlessly with the pasta and sauce, creating a more harmonious dish.

Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Whisk the remaining sauce in the slow cooker to create a smooth, consistent base.

Add uncooked penne pasta directly into the liquid and return the shredded chicken.

Cover and cook on high for 20-30 minutes.

Watch carefully to prevent pasta from becoming mushy.

Step 4: Finish with Cheesy Goodness

Sprinkle Parmesan cheese into the pasta and stir gently.

Let the cheese melt for about 5 minutes, creating a creamy, rich finish.

The result is a spicy, comforting meal that brings Cajun flavors right to your dinner table.

Cajun Chicken Pasta Cooking Tips

• Monitor internal temperature closely to ensure juicy, tender meat without overcooking, aiming for exactly 165°F for perfect texture.
• Whisk sauce thoroughly before adding pasta to distribute Cajun seasoning evenly and create smooth, creamy coating.
• Watch pasta carefully during final cooking stage, checking texture every 10 minutes to avoid mushy or undercooked noodles.
• Consider toasting Cajun seasoning briefly in butter before adding to Crock Pot to intensify spice profile and release deeper aromatics.
• Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for dairy-free version, or use gluten-free penne for celiac-friendly alternative.

How to Store Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, ensuring the container is sealed tightly to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Place pasta in a microwave-safe dish, sprinkle a few tablespoons of water or chicken broth to prevent dryness. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel, heat in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval until thoroughly warmed.
• Transfer pasta to a skillet, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore moisture. Warm over medium-low heat, stirring consistently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating. Cook until the pasta reaches desired temperature.
• Pack cooled pasta in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating using microwave or stovetop methods.

Best Pairings for Cajun Chicken Pasta

Spice Up Your Palate: Cajun Chicken Pasta Pairings

• Cool Down with Crisp White Wine: Complement the spicy Cajun flavors with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These light, refreshing wines cut through the creamy sauce and balance the heat perfectly.
• Crunch with Cajun Coleslaw: Serve a tangy, crunchy coleslaw on the side to add texture and provide a cool contrast to the rich, spicy pasta. A vinegar-based slaw works best to cleanse the palate.
• Tame the Heat with Beer: Choose a light lager or wheat beer to soothe the Cajun spiciness. The carbonation and mild flavor help neutralize the dish's intense seasoning while keeping the meal enjoyable.
• Fresh Herb Garlic Bread: Prepare a quick garlic bread topped with fresh parsley or chives. Its crispy texture and herbal notes will complement the creamy pasta and provide a delightful side that soaks up the extra sauce.

Cajun Chicken Pasta Flavor Ideas

• Gluten-Free Pasta Option: Swap regular penne with gluten-free pasta made from rice, corn, or quinoa to accommodate those with wheat sensitivities.
• Dairy-Free Adaptation: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a creamy, lactose-free version that maintains rich flavor.
• Low-Carb Zucchini Noodle Version: Substitute penne pasta with spiralized zucchini noodles for a vegetable-packed, lower-carbohydrate alternative that keeps the Cajun spice profile intact.
• Vegetarian Protein Swap: Use plant-based chicken alternatives like tofu or jackfruit, seasoned with Cajun spices, to create a meat-free rendition of this hearty pasta dish.

FAQs

• What makes Cajun seasoning unique?

Cajun seasoning is a spicy blend originating from Louisiana, typically combining paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, and thyme. It delivers a bold, zesty flavor with a signature heat that gives dishes like this chicken pasta its distinctive kick.

• Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts directly in the Crock Pot. Just add about 1-2 hours to the cooking time to ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F. Thawed chicken is still recommended for more even cooking.

• How spicy will this pasta be?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning. Most store-bought blends offer a medium heat, but you can control the spiciness by using less seasoning or choosing a mild version. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with half the recommended amount and adjust to taste.

• Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Cajun chicken pasta reheats well and can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. The flavors often improve overnight, making it an excellent option for preparing meals in advance.

Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

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4.5 from 15 reviews

• Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Spicy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta brings Louisiana’s bold flavors straight to kitchen tables with minimal effort. Creamy, zesty sauce and tender chicken create a hearty meal that satisfies hungry families and delivers authentic southern comfort in every delicious bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Protein:

• 2 pounds (907 grams) chicken breasts

Dairy and Cream:

• 2 cups (480 milliliters) heavy whipping cream
• 1 cup (100 grams) grated parmesan cheese
• 4 tablespoons (56 grams) butter

Pasta and Seasonings:

• 1 pound (454 grams) penne pasta
• 4 cups (960 milliliters) chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons cajun seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Cajun chicken base by combining chicken breasts, heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder in the Crock Pot. Seal and slow-cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours, allowing the chicken to become infused with robust Cajun flavors.
2. Verify the chicken’s internal temperature reaches 165°F, then carefully extract and shred the meat into tender, bite-sized pieces using two forks.
3. Thoroughly whisk the remaining sauce in the Crock Pot to ensure a smooth, consistent texture.
4. Introduce uncooked penne pasta directly into the seasoned liquid, then gently fold the shredded chicken back into the mixture.
5. Cover and continue cooking on high for 20-30 minutes, periodically checking pasta’s tenderness to prevent overcooking.
6. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the dish, stirring to integrate. Allow the cheese to melt for 5 minutes, creating a creamy, luxurious coating.
7. Serve immediately, enjoying the rich, spicy Cajun-inspired pasta straight from the Crock Pot.

Notes

• Control the spiciness by reducing or increasing the Cajun seasoning to match your personal heat tolerance.
• Swap regular penne pasta with gluten-free pasta options like chickpea or rice pasta to accommodate dietary restrictions.
• Stir the pasta occasionally during the final cooking stage to ensure even cooking and prevent clumping at the bottom of the Crock Pot.
• Replace chicken with shrimp, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for a versatile meal that suits different preferences.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 3 hours (on high) or 6 hours (on low)
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 751
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 915 mg
• Fat: 45 g
• Saturated Fat: 25 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 16 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 54 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 43 g
• Cholesterol: 170 mg