Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, spicy, and comforting dish that brings bold Louisiana-inspired flavors straight to your dinner table with minimal effort. Made in the slow cooker, this meal features tender chicken, a rich Cajun-spiced sauce, and perfectly cooked pasta for a weeknight dinner that’s both hearty and hands-off.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy set-it-and-forget-it slow cooker method
• Bold, zesty Cajun flavors
• Creamy, comforting, and satisfying
• Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep
• Family-friendly with adjustable spice levels
• Can be made gluten-free with GF pasta
• Great for leftovers
• One-pot meal—less cleanup

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Cajun seasoning
• Onion, chopped
• Bell peppers (red, green, or yellow), sliced
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken broth
• Diced tomatoes (optional, for extra depth)
• Cream cheese
• Heavy cream
• Cooked pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine)
• Olive oil or butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish

directions

1. Season the chicken generously with Cajun seasoning.
2. In the crock pot, add the chicken, onion, bell peppers, garlic, and chicken broth. Stir gently.
3. Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is cooked and tender.
4. Shred or slice the chicken directly in the pot.
5. Add cream cheese and heavy cream. Stir until melted and well combined.
6. Add cooked pasta and stir until everything is coated in the sauce. Let it heat for another 10–15 minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: 6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 6–7 hours (low) or 3–4 hours (high)
Total time: 6.5–7.5 hours or 3.5–4.5 hours

Variations

• Spicier version: Add cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or sliced jalapeños.
• Lighter version: Use half-and-half or milk instead of heavy cream.
• Low-carb: Serve over zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice instead of pasta.
• Cheesy twist: Stir in shredded mozzarella or parmesan just before serving.
• Tomato-based: Add diced tomatoes and a splash of tomato sauce for a Cajun tomato cream sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also freeze the chicken and sauce (without pasta) for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat before adding fresh-cooked pasta.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken in the crock pot?

It’s not recommended for food safety. Always thaw chicken before adding to the slow cooker.

What type of pasta works best?

Short pasta like penne, rotini, or rigatoni works well because it holds the sauce better.

Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Yes, but check the salt content. You may want to adjust the amount of added salt.

Is this dish very spicy?

It’s mildly spicy with a kick. You can increase or decrease the spice level to suit your taste.

Can I use a different protein?

Yes, sausage or shrimp are great alternatives, though shrimp should be added in the last 30 minutes to avoid overcooking.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can try dairy-free alternatives like cashew cream or coconut milk, though it will change the flavor.

Will the pasta get mushy in the crock pot?

Cook the pasta separately and add it at the end to avoid overcooking and sogginess.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but ensure your crock pot has enough capacity. Adjust cooking times slightly as needed.

What vegetables go well in this dish?

Mushrooms, spinach, or diced tomatoes are great additions for added flavor and texture.

How do I thicken the sauce?

Let the sauce simmer with the lid off for a few minutes after adding the cream cheese, or stir in a bit of grated parmesan.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful, creamy, and effortless dish that turns simple ingredients into a bold, satisfying meal. Whether you’re prepping it for a weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this recipe delivers rich Cajun taste with minimal prep and cleanup. Keep it in your regular rotation for a no-fuss dinner everyone will love.

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