If you’ve been craving something creamy, a little spicy, and ridiculously easy to throw together, let me introduce you to your new favorite dinner: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.
This isn’t just another slow cooker dinner idea. This is the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with smoky Cajun aroma, makes everyone wander in asking “What’s cooking?”, and disappears fast once it hits the table.
We’re talking about tender shredded chicken, bold Cajun seasoning, sweet bell peppers, and a rich Parmesan cream sauce hugging every bite of penne pasta. And the best part? It’s a true set and forget dinner. You get about 15 minutes of prep, then your crockpot Cajun chicken handles the rest.
Whether you’re looking for an easy family dinner, a comforting weeknight slow cooker meal, or a freezer friendly pasta recipe, this slow cooker Cajun chicken pasta checks all the boxes.
Let’s get into it.
Why You’ll Love Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is one of those comfort food pasta recipes that feels fancy but couldn’t be simpler.
Here’s why this creamy Cajun pasta recipe works so well:
First, it’s beginner friendly. Even if you’ve never made a slow cooker creamy pasta before, this one is straightforward and forgiving.
Second, it’s packed with flavor. The Cajun seasoning blend, smoked paprika flavor, garlic and onion base, and diced tomatoes with juice all layer together as the chicken slowly cooks.
Third, it’s flexible. Want it spicier? Add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes. Need a dairy free Cajun pasta option? Swap the heavy cream for coconut milk and skip or replace the Parmesan.
And finally, it’s meal prep friendly. This make ahead pasta dinner reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeks.
If you enjoy cozy dinners like this, you can also browse more easy and satisfying dinner recipes like Savory Apple Cider Braised Pork Shoulder for Cozy Nights for inspiration beyond this Southern style chicken pasta.
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Ingredients
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta keeps things simple. No complicated techniques, no hard-to-find ingredients.
Here’s what you’ll need:
chicken and seasoning:
- 1 lb 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
sauce and vegetables:
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
creamy finish:
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
pasta:
- 8 oz penne pasta recipe style (or pasta of choice)
Each ingredient plays a role. The Cajun seasoning blend brings that Louisiana inspired pasta recipe flavor. The heavy cream pasta sauce and Parmesan cream sauce combination transforms the tomato broth into something rich and velvety. The bell peppers and chicken add color and sweetness to balance the spice.
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta comes together in layers. And layering is what gives this slow cooker Cajun chicken pasta its depth.
Step 1: Season the Chicken
Place the boneless skinless chicken breasts in a bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and coat generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub everything in well so the spices cling to the meat.
Step 2: Brown for Flavor
Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear the chicken for about 2–3 minutes per side. You’re not cooking it through. You’re building flavor. Those golden bits matter in a one pot Cajun pasta style dish like this.
Step 3: Load the Slow Cooker
Transfer the chicken to the bottom of your crock pot. Layer sliced bell peppers, onion, and garlic on top. Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth.
This is now officially a 4 hour crock pot recipe in the making.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and shred easily. This is the heart of your slow cooker dinner idea.
Step 5: Shred and Cream
Remove the chicken, shred it using two forks, and return it to the crockpot Cajun chicken mixture. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until you have a smooth, creamy spicy chicken pasta base.
Step 6: Cook Pasta Separately
Boil penne pasta until al dente. Drain and add it to the slow cooker. Let everything sit together on LOW for 15–20 minutes so the pasta absorbs that creamy Cajun goodness.
This is how to make creamy pasta in a slow cooker without ending up with mushy noodles: cook the pasta separately, then combine.
Spice Level and Customization
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta has warmth, not overwhelming heat. But you can adjust it.
For more spice:
- Add cayenne pepper
- Stir in chopped jalapeño
- Use a spicy Cajun seasoning blend
For less heat:
- Reduce Cajun seasoning
- Add extra cream
Want more vegetables in your Cajun chicken pasta with penne? Try mushrooms, zucchini, spinach, or kale. Softer vegetables like spinach can go in during the last 20 minutes.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a freezer friendly pasta recipe, which makes it perfect for meal prep chicken pasta plans.
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer:
Freeze portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating:
Warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. You can also microwave in intervals, stirring between each.
If you’re building a weekly meal rotation, this creamy Cajun pasta recipe pairs well with Delicious Seafood Casserole
Frequently Asked Questions About Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can you put pasta in a crock pot from the beginning?
Technically yes, but for the best texture in this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, cook the pasta separately. It prevents overcooking and keeps the sauce creamy.
Can I use frozen chicken?
Yes. If using frozen chicken breasts, cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Always confirm the chicken reaches 165°F.
Can I make it dairy free?
Absolutely. Replace heavy cream with coconut milk and omit Parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative. You’ll still get a rich slow cooker creamy pasta result.
Is this good for beginners?
This is a true beginner crockpot recipe. Minimal prep, simple layering, and forgiving cooking times make it ideal if you’re new to slow cooking.
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta (Slow Cooker Comfort Food Done Right)
Description
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich, comforting slow cooker dinner made with tender shredded chicken, bold Cajun seasoning, sweet bell peppers, and a creamy Parmesan sauce tossed with penne pasta. This easy set-and-forget recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb 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 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz penne pasta
Instructions
- Place chicken breasts in a bowl and drizzle with olive oil.
- Season with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and sear chicken 2–3 minutes per side.
- Transfer chicken to the bottom of the crock pot.
- Layer bell pepper, onion, and garlic over the chicken.
- Pour diced tomatoes with juice and chicken broth into the slow cooker.
- Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2–3 hours until chicken reaches 165°F.
- Remove chicken, shred with two forks, and return to the crock pot.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until creamy.
- Cook penne pasta separately until al dente and drain.
- Add cooked pasta to the crock pot and stir to combine.
- Let sit on LOW for 15–20 minutes before serving.
Notes
Cook pasta separately to prevent overcooking. Adjust Cajun seasoning for preferred spice level. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or cream to maintain a smooth sauce.
Final Thoughts on Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is everything you want in a comfort food pasta dish. It’s creamy without being heavy, spicy without being overpowering, and easy enough for a busy Tuesday night.
This slow cooker Cajun chicken pasta brings together smoky spices, tender shredded chicken, and a luscious Parmesan cream sauce in a way that feels both comforting and exciting. It’s a true Southern style chicken pasta that fits right into everyday life.
If you’ve been searching for the best creamy Cajun chicken pasta in crock pot form, this is it. Save it, print it, and make it part of your regular dinner rotation.
Once you try this spicy creamy chicken pasta, your crock pot might just become your favorite kitchen tool.
For more delicious recipe ideas, check out our Pinterest page at virlerecipes. Happy cooking!