Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is a delightful dish that brings together creamy textures and spicy Cajun flavors. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe offers a comforting meal with minimal effort. The slow cooker does all the hard work, allowing you to enjoy a rich and flavorful pasta dish that’s sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: Simply add ingredients to the crock pot and let it do the work.
• Rich Flavors: The blend of Cajun seasoning and creamy sauce creates a deliciously unique taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is a hit with both kids and adults, making it perfect for any occasion.
• Versatile Options: You can easily adjust the spice level or swap out pasta types based on your preference.
• Make Ahead Meal: Ideal for meal prep, this recipe can be made in advance and reheated later.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe easy and enjoyable, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment simplifies cooking and enhances your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 6 Quart Crock Pot
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Knife
• Measuring Cups

Importance of Each Tool

• 6 Quart Crock Pot: The heart of the recipe, allowing for even cooking of chicken and pasta.
• Whisk: Ensures that the creamy sauce is well blended before adding pasta.
• Cutting Board & Knife: Essential for safely preparing chicken, making it easier to shred or dice after cooking.

Ingredients

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 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, heavy whipping cream, chicken broth, butter, garlic powder, and Cajun seasoning into a 6 quart crock pot.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is cooked through (has an internal temperature of 165 degrees F).

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

Remove the chicken from the crock pot. Shred or dice it into large pieces as desired.

Step 4: Mix in Pasta

Whisk the sauce in the crock pot until smooth. Return the shredded chicken back to the crock pot. Stir in the uncooked penne pasta.

Step 5: Cook Pasta

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

Step 6: Add Cheese

Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Cover for about 5 minutes to allow the cheese to melt thoroughly.

Step 7: Serve

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta!

How to Serve Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

This creamy and flavorful dish is perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with Fresh Salad

• A light mixed green salad topped with vinaigrette adds freshness and balances the richness of the pasta.

Serve with Garlic Bread

• Warm, crispy garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce, making every bite more enjoyable.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or green onions on top for a burst of color and added flavor.

Add Hot Sauce

• For those who love extra heat, offering hot sauce on the side allows guests to customize their spice level.

Pair with Wine

• A chilled glass of white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the Cajun flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

To make this dish even better, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe.

• Choose quality chicken: Using fresh organic chicken breasts ensures great flavor and texture in your dish.

• Adjust seasoning: Feel free to modify the amount of Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference for a personalized touch.

• Use homemade broth: If possible, use homemade chicken broth to enhance the overall taste and richness of the sauce.

• Thicken sauce if needed: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking.

• Customize veggies: Adding bell peppers or spinach during the last 30 minutes can boost nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

Complementing your main dish with delicious sides can elevate the entire meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted with garlic make a vibrant and healthy side dish.
2. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess that pairs well with the pasta.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn cooked simply brings a delightful sweetness that contrasts nicely with spicy Cajun flavors.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans with olive oil provide a fresh and crisp side option.
5. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can offer crunch and balance out the creaminess of the main dish.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of baked sweet potatoes adds an interesting contrast to this savory pasta dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making the Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, avoid these common pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough Cajun seasoning can leave your dish bland. Make sure to measure and adjust according to your taste preferences.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can lead to a dry texture. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F before removing it.
• Not whisking the sauce: Neglecting to whisk the sauce after removing the chicken can result in clumps. Take a moment to ensure it’s smooth before adding pasta.
• Using uncooked pasta incorrectly: Adding uncooked pasta too early may lead to mushy noodles. Stir it in just before finishing cooking to keep it al dente.
• Forgetting about cheese melting time: Not allowing enough time for the Parmesan cheese to melt can affect creaminess. Cover and wait at least 5 minutes after stirring it in.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled down before sealing and refrigerating.

Freezing Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Separate portions into smaller containers for easier reheating later.

Reheating Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, cover with aluminum foil, and heat for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until hot. This usually takes about 4-6 minutes depending on your microwave’s power.
• Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed, and stir until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a great side dish for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?

A fresh green salad or garlic bread pairs well with this dish, balancing its rich flavors.

Can I use other types of pasta?

Yes! While penne works great, feel free to substitute with fusilli or rotini for a fun twist.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

Absolutely! Swap chicken with hearty vegetables like bell peppers and mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead.

How spicy is this Cajun chicken pasta recipe?

The spice level depends on your Cajun seasoning brand; adjust according to your taste preferences for more or less heat.

Can I prepare this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare all ingredients in advance and store them separately until you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level. Give it a try and enjoy a hearty meal that’s sure to please everyone at your table!