Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Name: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-488410H37M54S
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 2 pounds chicken breasts; 2 cups heavy whipping cream; 4 cups chicken broth; 4 tablespoons butter; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 pound penne pasta; 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Published: August 24, 2025

by Saphira

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Effortless Preparation: Simply toss all the ingredients into your crock pot and let it do the work while you go about your day.
Rich Flavor: The combination of Cajun seasoning and creamy sauce elevates the chicken pasta to new heights, making every bite unforgettable.
Versatile Dish: Enjoy this recipe as a standalone meal or pair it with a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
Great for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, allowing you to savor those amazing flavors even on busy days.
Family-Friendly: With its mild heat and creamy texture, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will help streamline your cooking process and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

6-quart crock pot
Whisk
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

6-quart crock pot: This size allows you to cook ample servings at once, perfect for family meals or leftovers.
Whisk: Ideal for mixing sauces thoroughly, giving you a smooth and creamy consistency.
Knife: A sharp knife makes preparing chicken and chopping ingredients quick and easy.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting your ingredients while keeping your workspace tidy.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Base

2 pounds Chicken Breasts
2 cups Heavy Whipping Cream
4 cups Chicken Broth
4 Tablespoons Butter
2 Tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1/2 teaspoon Garlic Powder

For the Pasta

1 pound Penne Pasta
1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Add the chicken breasts, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning into your 6-quart crock pot. Ensure all ingredients are well combined before moving to the next step.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be cooked through with an internal temperature of 165 degrees F.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the crock pot. Shred or dice it into large pieces using two forks or a knife.

Step 4: Mix in Pasta

Whisk the sauce in the crock pot to combine. Return the shredded chicken back into the mixture. Stir in uncooked penne pasta evenly throughout.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

Cover once more and cook on high for an additional 20-30 minutes until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.

Step 6: Add Cheese

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese into the mixture. Cover again for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt smoothly into the sauce.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your warm Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta immediately and enjoy this hearty meal!

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. You can elevate your dining experience with various serving options that complement this flavorful dish.

Family Style

Serve the pasta directly from the crock pot for a casual family dinner. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy seconds.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley or green onions on top before serving. This enhances the presentation and adds a fresh flavor.

Pair with Garlic Bread

Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a delightful crunch. The bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

Add a Side Salad

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the pasta. Try arugula or mixed greens for added texture.

Offer Extra Parmesan

Place extra grated Parmesan cheese on the table for guests to add as they wish. It adds an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

To ensure your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta turns out just right, consider these helpful tips.

Choose Quality Chicken: Use fresh, high-quality chicken breasts for better flavor and texture.
Adjust Spiciness: Modify the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference. Start with less if you’re unsure.
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk in some cornstarch mixed with water towards the end of cooking.
Stir Occasionally: Give it a gentle stir halfway through cooking to ensure even blending of flavors.
Use Whole Wheat Pasta: For a healthier option, consider substituting regular penne with whole wheat penne pasta.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Complement your meal with these delicious side dishes that pair well with Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta.

Garlic Bread – A crispy and buttery side that’s perfect for mopping up extra sauce.
Caesar Salad – A classic salad that adds crunch and freshness to balance the creamy pasta.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized provide a healthy contrast.
Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn brushed with butter is a simple yet satisfying side dish.
Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing crunch that pairs nicely with rich flavors.
Rice Pilaf – Fluffy rice pilaf can absorb the sauce beautifully while adding more nourishment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, it’s easy to make a few mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for:

Ingredient Miscalculations: Using too much or too little of any ingredient can alter the taste and texture. Always double-check your measurements before starting.
Skipping Marinade Time: Allowing the chicken to marinate with Cajun seasoning enhances flavor. Don’t rush this step; let it sit for at least 30 minutes if possible.
Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165 degrees F and no more.
Ignoring Pasta Cooking Time: The pasta cooks in the sauce, so timing is crucial. Stir in uncooked pasta and cook until just tender for best results.
Forgetting to Thicken Sauce: If your sauce is too thin, whisking it before adding pasta helps thicken it up. Don’t skip this step for a creamier dish!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
The dish lasts up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Freeze in portions in freezer-safe containers.
It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat in a covered dish for about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power until warmed through, about 4-5 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat gently over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot; add a splash of broth or cream if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding the Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe:

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While penne works well, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer.

How spicy is this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?

The spiciness depends on the Cajun seasoning used. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.

Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Absolutely! Bell peppers, onions, or spinach can be added for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I make this recipe dairy-free?

Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free version.

How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker?

Cooking time varies from 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high depending on your crock pot model.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is not only creamy and delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting the spice level. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Give it a try, and you’ll love how easy and flavorful it is!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card