Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
This comforting dish combines tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and creamy sauce, cooked effortlessly in a slow cooker for a meal that pleases everyone.
Ingredients
Chicken Preparation
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Base
- 1 sliced bell pepper
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- 1 cup chicken broth
Creamy Elements
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Pasta
- 8 oz penne pasta
Garnish
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Place the chicken breasts in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil. Sprinkle Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the chicken. Mix to coat well.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken on both sides for approximately 2-3 minutes. Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker.
- Layer sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken in the slow cooker. Pour in diced tomatoes with their juices and chicken broth.
Cooking
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Remove the chicken and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Meanwhile, cook the penne pasta according to package instructions. After draining, mix pasta into the slow cooker.
- Allow everything to heat together for an additional 15-20 minutes, then serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
For added flavor, consider pairing with garlic bread or a simple green salad and a glass of white wine.