There’s nothing quite like coming home to the comforting aroma of dinner already waiting for you in the slow cooker. This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect cozy meal for busy weeknights—it’s hearty, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy.
The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a smoky kick, while the slow cooking keeps everything tender and flavorful. Toss in some pasta and a swirl of creamy sauce, and you’ve got a dish that feels indulgent yet simple enough to make any night of the week.
This recipe is all about comfort and convenience—a true set-it-and-forget-it dinner that will make your kitchen smell amazing and your family happy.
Recipe Info
| Field | Info |
|---|---|
| Category | Dinner / Pasta |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 4–6 hours (slow cooker) |
| Servings | 6 servings |
| Calories | ~450 kcal per serving |
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 ½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 oz cream cheese, cubed
- 12 oz pasta (penne or rigatoni works well)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-By-Step Instructions
- Season the chicken
Sprinkle Cajun seasoning generously over the chicken breasts, coating both sides. - Add to the slow cooker
Place the chicken in the crock pot along with onions, peppers, garlic, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. - Cook until tender
Cover and cook on Low for 6 hours or High for 4 hours until chicken is fully cooked and shreddable. - Shred the chicken
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the crock pot. - Add the creaminess
Stir in cream cheese and Parmesan until melted and the sauce is smooth. - Cook the pasta separately
Boil the pasta according to package directions, then drain. - Combine and serve
Stir the cooked pasta into the crock pot sauce mixture. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
Helpful Notes & Tips
- Adjust the spice: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat. Use less if you prefer mild, or add an extra sprinkle (or a pinch of cayenne) for more kick.
- Cream cheese tip: Cut the cream cheese into small cubes before adding—it melts faster and blends more smoothly.
- Storage: Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of chicken broth to loosen the sauce.
Recipe Variations
- Protein swap: Use shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a different take on Cajun flavors.
- Veggie boost: Add mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini in the last hour of cooking.
- Lighter version: Swap cream cheese for reduced-fat cream cheese or Greek yogurt for a tangier, lighter sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad or roasted veggies for a balanced meal.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread to soak up that creamy Cajun sauce.
- Top with extra Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like it extra bold.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is everything we love in a comfort meal—rich, flavorful, and unbelievably easy. It’s a dish that brings a little Cajun flair to your dinner table without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for your family or sharing with friends, this pasta is sure to be a cozy favorite.