Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Delight

by
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 medium onion, diced - 1 bell pepper, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 8 oz penne pasta - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) For this creamy Cajun chicken pasta, you need a few key ingredients. First, you will want 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This is the star of our dish. The Cajun seasoning is crucial for that bold and spicy flavor. One tablespoon will do the trick. Next, grab one teaspoon of garlic powder to add depth. You will also need fresh vegetables. I usually use one medium onion, one bell pepper, and three cloves of garlic. These veggies give a great taste and texture. Next, we need our canned and liquid ingredients. One can of diced tomatoes, undrained, adds sweetness and moisture. A cup of chicken broth brings in more flavor. Finally, one cup of heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. Don't forget the pasta! You will need 8 ounces of penne pasta. It holds the sauce well and pairs nicely with the chicken. You can finish this dish with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a melty topping. For extra taste, add salt and pepper to your liking. A tablespoon of olive oil helps to sauté the vegetables. Finally, fresh parsley adds a colorful garnish and a hint of freshness. With this list, you can create a delicious meal that will impress everyone at your table. First, we need to season the chicken. Take 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Rub this mix all over the chicken. This adds great flavor. Next, let’s prepare the vegetables. Dice 1 medium onion and 1 bell pepper. You can choose any color for the bell pepper. Mince 3 cloves of garlic. Now, it’s time to sauté the veggies. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook them until they soften, which takes about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This makes the kitchen smell amazing! Now, let’s layer our ingredients in the slow cooker. Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken breasts right on top of the veggies. Next, pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of chicken broth. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid. This step is key to keeping the chicken juicy. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through. Once the chicken is done, take it out of the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta. Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Check the pasta for doneness. It should be cooked al dente. Finally, once the pasta is ready, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and makes everything creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh look. Enjoy your meal! To make this dish shine, choose the right Cajun seasoning. I recommend brands like Tony Chachere's or Zatarain's. If you prefer homemade, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. This blend gives a great kick! For the creaminess, use heavy cream. It creates a rich, smooth texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half. Just remember, it won’t be as thick. Not all slow cookers are the same. If yours cooks faster, check the chicken after 3 hours. If it’s done, you can skip the full 6 hours. For slow cookers that cook slowly, you might need the full time. If the pasta is undercooked, add a bit of extra broth. Cook on high for another 10-15 minutes. This extra time helps the pasta soften just right. Always check the pasta before serving to ensure it’s al dente! {{image_2}} You can change up the protein in this dish. Shrimp works great if you want seafood. Sausage adds a hearty touch and a bit of spice. Both options create a tasty twist on the classic chicken version. For vegetables, consider adding fresh spinach or kale. These greens not only boost nutrition but also add a nice color. Throw in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can mix and match these veggies based on what you have on hand or what you love. To adjust the spice level, try adding more Cajun seasoning. You can also include a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the seasoning a bit. You can also experiment with garlic powder or even onion powder for a deeper taste. For cheese, feel free to swap out cheddar. Cream cheese can make the dish extra creamy while adding a tangy flavor. Mozzarella gives a nice stretch and mild taste. Explore different cheeses to find your favorite combination. After you enjoy your Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, store any leftovers right away. Place the pasta in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze the dish, let it cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. This dish can last in the freezer for about three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw the pasta in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a pot over low heat. You can also use the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help it stay creamy. In the fridge, your Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta will stay fresh for about three days. If frozen, it can last for up to three months. Watch out for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or if it smells off, don't eat it. If the texture changes or it gets dry, it's best to throw it away. Always trust your senses. Keeping food safe is key! What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta? You can pair this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread. Both add a nice crunch and flavor. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well. Garlic bread will soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite better. Can I make this dish without a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Use a large pot on the stove. Cook the chicken and vegetables first, then add the other ingredients. Let everything simmer for 20-30 minutes until the pasta is done. Is Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta healthy? This dish has a mix of protein, fats, and carbs. It can be a part of a balanced diet. Adjust the heavy cream and cheese for a lighter version if needed. Adding more veggies can boost the nutrition. How many calories are in a serving? Each serving has about 550-600 calories. This can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. Always check your specific brands for a more accurate count. Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of penne? Yes, whole wheat pasta works great! It adds fiber and a nutty flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta can cook faster. What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you need a lighter option, use half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt. Coconut milk is a good dairy-free choice. Each of these will change the flavor a bit, so choose what you like best. This recipe for Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta offers tasty meals with ease. We covered the main ingredients, from chicken to cheese, ensuring full flavor. I shared clear steps, tips for perfection, and helpful storage info. You can even swap ingredients to suit your taste. No matter how you make it, this dish shines in flavor and comfort. Enjoy sharing it with family and friends!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Welcome to your new favorite meal: Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Delight! This dish brings a burst of flavor and creaminess to your dinner table with minimal effort. Picture tender chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and rich cheese all mingling together in one pot. Whether you’re a busy parent, a student, or just someone who loves a hearty meal, this recipe is perfect for you. Let’s dive into the simple steps to create this bold, comforting dish!

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients List

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder

– 1 medium onion, diced

– 1 bell pepper, diced

– 3 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

– 1 cup chicken broth

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 8 oz penne pasta

– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

– 1 tablespoon olive oil

– Salt and pepper to taste

– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For this creamy Cajun chicken pasta, you need a few key ingredients. First, you will want 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This is the star of our dish. The Cajun seasoning is crucial for that bold and spicy flavor. One tablespoon will do the trick.

Next, grab one teaspoon of garlic powder to add depth. You will also need fresh vegetables. I usually use one medium onion, one bell pepper, and three cloves of garlic. These veggies give a great taste and texture.

Next, we need our canned and liquid ingredients. One can of diced tomatoes, undrained, adds sweetness and moisture. A cup of chicken broth brings in more flavor. Finally, one cup of heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy.

Don’t forget the pasta! You will need 8 ounces of penne pasta. It holds the sauce well and pairs nicely with the chicken. You can finish this dish with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a melty topping.

For extra taste, add salt and pepper to your liking. A tablespoon of olive oil helps to sauté the vegetables. Finally, fresh parsley adds a colorful garnish and a hint of freshness.

With this list, you can create a delicious meal that will impress everyone at your table.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Phase

First, we need to season the chicken. Take 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Rub this mix all over the chicken. This adds great flavor.

Next, let’s prepare the vegetables. Dice 1 medium onion and 1 bell pepper. You can choose any color for the bell pepper. Mince 3 cloves of garlic.

Now, it’s time to sauté the veggies. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook them until they soften, which takes about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This makes the kitchen smell amazing!

Cooking Process

Now, let’s layer our ingredients in the slow cooker. Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken breasts right on top of the veggies.

Next, pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of chicken broth. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid. This step is key to keeping the chicken juicy.

Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through.

Final Mixing and Serving

Once the chicken is done, take it out of the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker.

Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta. Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Check the pasta for doneness. It should be cooked al dente.

Finally, once the pasta is ready, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and makes everything creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed.

Serve it hot, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh look. Enjoy your meal!

Tips & Tricks

Perfecting the Recipe

To make this dish shine, choose the right Cajun seasoning. I recommend brands like Tony Chachere’s or Zatarain’s. If you prefer homemade, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. This blend gives a great kick!

For the creaminess, use heavy cream. It creates a rich, smooth texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half. Just remember, it won’t be as thick.

Slow Cooker Adjustments

Not all slow cookers are the same. If yours cooks faster, check the chicken after 3 hours. If it’s done, you can skip the full 6 hours. For slow cookers that cook slowly, you might need the full time.

If the pasta is undercooked, add a bit of extra broth. Cook on high for another 10-15 minutes. This extra time helps the pasta soften just right. Always check the pasta before serving to ensure it’s al dente!

Variations

Ingredient Swaps

You can change up the protein in this dish. Shrimp works great if you want seafood. Sausage adds a hearty touch and a bit of spice. Both options create a tasty twist on the classic chicken version.

For vegetables, consider adding fresh spinach or kale. These greens not only boost nutrition but also add a nice color. Throw in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can mix and match these veggies based on what you have on hand or what you love.

Flavor Enhancements

To adjust the spice level, try adding more Cajun seasoning. You can also include a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the seasoning a bit. You can also experiment with garlic powder or even onion powder for a deeper taste.

For cheese, feel free to swap out cheddar. Cream cheese can make the dish extra creamy while adding a tangy flavor. Mozzarella gives a nice stretch and mild taste. Explore different cheeses to find your favorite combination.

Storage Info

Refrigeration and Freezing

After you enjoy your Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, store any leftovers right away. Place the pasta in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days.

To freeze the dish, let it cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. This dish can last in the freezer for about three months.

When you are ready to eat, thaw the pasta in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a pot over low heat. You can also use the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help it stay creamy.

Shelf Life

In the fridge, your Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta will stay fresh for about three days. If frozen, it can last for up to three months.

Watch out for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or if it smells off, don’t eat it. If the texture changes or it gets dry, it’s best to throw it away. Always trust your senses. Keeping food safe is key!

FAQs

Common Cooking Questions

What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?

You can pair this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread. Both add a nice crunch and flavor. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well. Garlic bread will soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite better.

Can I make this dish without a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Use a large pot on the stove. Cook the chicken and vegetables first, then add the other ingredients. Let everything simmer for 20-30 minutes until the pasta is done.

Nutritional Information Queries

Is Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta healthy?

This dish has a mix of protein, fats, and carbs. It can be a part of a balanced diet. Adjust the heavy cream and cheese for a lighter version if needed. Adding more veggies can boost the nutrition.

How many calories are in a serving?

Each serving has about 550-600 calories. This can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. Always check your specific brands for a more accurate count.

Ingredient Specifics

Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of penne?

Yes, whole wheat pasta works great! It adds fiber and a nutty flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta can cook faster.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you need a lighter option, use half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt. Coconut milk is a good dairy-free choice. Each of these will change the flavor a bit, so choose what you like best.

This recipe for Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta offers tasty meals with ease. We covered the main ingredients, from chicken to cheese, ensuring full flavor. I shared clear steps, tips for perfection, and helpful storage info. You can even swap ingredients to suit your taste.

No matter how you make it, this dish shines in flavor and comfort. Enjoy sharing it with family and friends!

- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts - 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning - 1 teaspoon garlic powder - 1 medium onion, diced - 1 bell pepper, diced - 3 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained - 1 cup chicken broth - 1 cup heavy cream - 8 oz penne pasta - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese - 1 tablespoon olive oil - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) For this creamy Cajun chicken pasta, you need a few key ingredients. First, you will want 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. This is the star of our dish. The Cajun seasoning is crucial for that bold and spicy flavor. One tablespoon will do the trick. Next, grab one teaspoon of garlic powder to add depth. You will also need fresh vegetables. I usually use one medium onion, one bell pepper, and three cloves of garlic. These veggies give a great taste and texture. Next, we need our canned and liquid ingredients. One can of diced tomatoes, undrained, adds sweetness and moisture. A cup of chicken broth brings in more flavor. Finally, one cup of heavy cream makes the sauce rich and creamy. Don't forget the pasta! You will need 8 ounces of penne pasta. It holds the sauce well and pairs nicely with the chicken. You can finish this dish with one cup of shredded cheddar cheese for a melty topping. For extra taste, add salt and pepper to your liking. A tablespoon of olive oil helps to sauté the vegetables. Finally, fresh parsley adds a colorful garnish and a hint of freshness. With this list, you can create a delicious meal that will impress everyone at your table. First, we need to season the chicken. Take 1 pound of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. In a bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Rub this mix all over the chicken. This adds great flavor. Next, let’s prepare the vegetables. Dice 1 medium onion and 1 bell pepper. You can choose any color for the bell pepper. Mince 3 cloves of garlic. Now, it’s time to sauté the veggies. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and bell pepper. Cook them until they soften, which takes about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. This makes the kitchen smell amazing! Now, let’s layer our ingredients in the slow cooker. Transfer the sautéed vegetables into the slow cooker. Place the seasoned chicken breasts right on top of the veggies. Next, pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes and 1 cup of chicken broth. Make sure the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid. This step is key to keeping the chicken juicy. Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 4 to 6 hours. If you’re in a hurry, you can set it to high for 2 to 3 hours. The chicken should be tender and cooked through. Once the chicken is done, take it out of the slow cooker. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker. Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 8 ounces of uncooked penne pasta. Cover the slow cooker again and cook on high for an additional 30 to 40 minutes. Check the pasta for doneness. It should be cooked al dente. Finally, once the pasta is ready, add 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and makes everything creamy. Taste and season with salt and pepper if needed. Serve it hot, and don’t forget to garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh look. Enjoy your meal! To make this dish shine, choose the right Cajun seasoning. I recommend brands like Tony Chachere's or Zatarain's. If you prefer homemade, mix paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and oregano. This blend gives a great kick! For the creaminess, use heavy cream. It creates a rich, smooth texture. If you're looking for a lighter option, try half-and-half. Just remember, it won’t be as thick. Not all slow cookers are the same. If yours cooks faster, check the chicken after 3 hours. If it’s done, you can skip the full 6 hours. For slow cookers that cook slowly, you might need the full time. If the pasta is undercooked, add a bit of extra broth. Cook on high for another 10-15 minutes. This extra time helps the pasta soften just right. Always check the pasta before serving to ensure it’s al dente! {{image_2}} You can change up the protein in this dish. Shrimp works great if you want seafood. Sausage adds a hearty touch and a bit of spice. Both options create a tasty twist on the classic chicken version. For vegetables, consider adding fresh spinach or kale. These greens not only boost nutrition but also add a nice color. Throw in some mushrooms for an earthy flavor. You can mix and match these veggies based on what you have on hand or what you love. To adjust the spice level, try adding more Cajun seasoning. You can also include a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the seasoning a bit. You can also experiment with garlic powder or even onion powder for a deeper taste. For cheese, feel free to swap out cheddar. Cream cheese can make the dish extra creamy while adding a tangy flavor. Mozzarella gives a nice stretch and mild taste. Explore different cheeses to find your favorite combination. After you enjoy your Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta, store any leftovers right away. Place the pasta in an airtight container. Keep it in the fridge for up to three days. To freeze the dish, let it cool completely. Transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space at the top for expansion. This dish can last in the freezer for about three months. When you are ready to eat, thaw the pasta in the fridge overnight. Reheat it in a pot over low heat. You can also use the microwave. Add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help it stay creamy. In the fridge, your Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta will stay fresh for about three days. If frozen, it can last for up to three months. Watch out for signs of spoilage. If you see mold or if it smells off, don't eat it. If the texture changes or it gets dry, it's best to throw it away. Always trust your senses. Keeping food safe is key! What can I serve with Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta? You can pair this dish with a fresh salad or garlic bread. Both add a nice crunch and flavor. A simple green salad with vinaigrette works well. Garlic bread will soak up the creamy sauce, making every bite better. Can I make this dish without a slow cooker? Yes, you can! Use a large pot on the stove. Cook the chicken and vegetables first, then add the other ingredients. Let everything simmer for 20-30 minutes until the pasta is done. Is Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta healthy? This dish has a mix of protein, fats, and carbs. It can be a part of a balanced diet. Adjust the heavy cream and cheese for a lighter version if needed. Adding more veggies can boost the nutrition. How many calories are in a serving? Each serving has about 550-600 calories. This can vary based on the exact ingredients you use. Always check your specific brands for a more accurate count. Can I use whole wheat pasta instead of penne? Yes, whole wheat pasta works great! It adds fiber and a nutty flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as whole wheat pasta can cook faster. What can I substitute for heavy cream? If you need a lighter option, use half-and-half or plain Greek yogurt. Coconut milk is a good dairy-free choice. Each of these will change the flavor a bit, so choose what you like best. This recipe for Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta offers tasty meals with ease. We covered the main ingredients, from chicken to cheese, ensuring full flavor. I shared clear steps, tips for perfection, and helpful storage info. You can even swap ingredients to suit your taste. No matter how you make it, this dish shines in flavor and comfort. Enjoy sharing it with family and friends!

Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Indulge in a bowl of Slow Cooker Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta that's packed with flavor and ease! This delicious recipe combines tender chicken, zesty Cajun seasoning, and creamy cheese to create a comforting dish everyone will love. Perfect for busy days, simply let your slow cooker do the work while you enjoy the tantalizing aromas. Click through to explore the full recipe and bring a taste of the South to your dinner table!
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Ingredients
  

1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 medium onion, diced

1 bell pepper (any color), diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup chicken broth

1 cup heavy cream

8 oz penne pasta

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 tablespoon olive oil

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions
 

In a bowl, season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning and garlic powder. Set aside.

    Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

      Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the slow cooker and add the seasoned chicken breasts on top.

        Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth, making sure the chicken is fully submerged in the liquid.

          Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

            Once the chicken is done, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the slow cooker.

              Stir in the heavy cream and uncooked penne pasta. Cover the slow cooker and cook on high for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the pasta is cooked al dente.

                Once the pasta is finished cooking, add shredded cheddar cheese and mix until melted and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

                  Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

                    Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 6 hours | Servings: 4-6

                      WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?