Description
This Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a rich, flavorful, and effortless dish made in the slow cooker. Tender chicken, bold Cajun spices, and a luscious creamy sauce come together with penne pasta for the ultimate comfort meal. With minimal prep and a hands-free cooking process, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned, drained, or fresh)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz penne pasta
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Season the Chicken: In a bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning to evenly coat.
- Assemble in the Slow Cooker: Add the seasoned chicken, bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and minced garlic to the slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
- Cook Low and Slow: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is tender.
- Add Pasta and Cheese: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta and Parmesan cheese. Cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is tender.
- Season and Serve: Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Notes
- For extra depth of flavor, sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, add a little more Parmesan cheese or a spoonful of cream cheese.
- Adjust the Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
- If the sauce is too thick, stir in extra chicken broth or cream before serving.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4-5 hours (low) / 2-3 hours (high)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American