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Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for Cozy Family Nights

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish, perfect for family gatherings or busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 hours
Total Time 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 600

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken and Sauce
  • 2 lbs Chicken Breasts frozen chicken can be used, adjusting cooking times.
  • 2 tbsp Olive Oil no substitutions necessary.
  • 2 tbsp Cajun Seasoning use spicy Cajun seasoning for extra heat.
  • 1 tsp Garlic Powder fresh garlic can be substituted for a stronger taste.
  • 1 tsp Onion Powder fresh diced onion can work well too.
  • 1 tsp Smoked Paprika regular paprika can substitute for a milder flavor.
  • 1 tsp Salt adjust to your personal taste.
  • 1 tsp Black Pepper freshly ground is preferred.
For the Veggies
  • 1 cup Bell Pepper any color bell pepper works or substitute with zucchini for a different texture.
  • 1 large Onion shallots can be an excellent substitute.
  • 2 cloves Garlic garlic powder is a quick alternative if needed.
  • 1 can Diced Tomatoes use fresh chopped tomatoes if you prefer.
For the Creamy Finish
  • 1 cup Chicken Broth vegetable broth works as a substitute for a vegetarian option.
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream coconut milk or non-dairy cream can be good dairy-free swaps.
  • 1/2 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese try dairy-free cheese as a substitute if needed.
For the Pasta and Garnish
  • 12 oz Penne Pasta feel free to swap with other pasta shapes you enjoy.
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Parsley optional, other fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can add a different flavor profile.

Equipment

  • Slow cooker
  • Skillet
  • Pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Season the chicken by drizzling olive oil over the chicken breasts and massaging Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper into the meat.
  2. Sear the chicken in a hot skillet for 2–3 minutes on each side until golden, then transfer to the slow cooker.
  3. Layer sliced bell peppers, diced onion, and minced garlic on top of the seared chicken in the slow cooker.
  4. Pour diced tomatoes and chicken broth over the layered chicken and vegetables in the slow cooker.
  5. Cover the slow cooker and set it on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours.
  6. Once cooked, shred the chicken in the slow cooker and stir into the sauce.
  7. Mix in heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
  8. Cook penne pasta according to package instructions and drain.
  9. Add the cooked pasta to the slow cooker and gently stir to combine with the sauce.
  10. Serve the dish in bowls garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 600kcalCarbohydrates: 65gProtein: 30gFat: 25gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 800IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 200mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Letting the dish rest after cooking helps flavors meld beautifully. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

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