This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a perfect blend of creamy, spicy, and comforting all in one dish. Tender chicken simmered with Cajun spices melts into a rich, creamy sauce that hugs every strand of pasta. It’s simple to put together and slow cooks while you go about your day, filling your home with a mouthwatering aroma.
I love making this dish when I want something hearty but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. The slow cooker does all the work, and the Cajun seasoning adds just the right amount of kick without being too spicy. I usually toss in some bell peppers for extra color and crunch, but it’s just as delicious on its own.
When I serve this creamy Cajun chicken pasta, I like to sprinkle a little extra cheese on top and add a handful of fresh parsley. It makes for a cozy, satisfying meal that everyone around my table always asks for again. It’s definitely become one of my go-to comfort food recipes on busy nights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: They stay juicy and tender when slow-cooked. You can swap them for thighs if you want richer flavor and more moisture.
Cajun seasoning: This is what brings the spice and depth. If you don’t have a mix, blend smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and paprika to taste.
Heavy cream & cream cheese: These make the sauce rich and creamy. For a lighter version, try half-and-half or Greek yogurt, but add it at the end to avoid curdling.
Rotini pasta: Its twists grab the sauce nicely. Penne or rigatoni also work well. Avoid delicate pasta, as it might get mushy in the slow cooker.
How Do You Prevent Pasta from Getting Mushy in the Crock Pot?
Pasta can easily turn mushy if cooked too long in the slow cooker. Here’s what I do:
- Add the pasta only after the chicken is cooked and removed.
- Pour in just enough broth to cook the pasta; too much liquid makes it soggy.
- Stir the pasta gently halfway through cooking to stop it sticking and check for doneness early.
- If the sauce is too thin after the pasta cooks, let it sit uncovered for a few minutes to thicken.
These tips help keep the pasta firm and allow the creamy Cajun sauce to cling perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot (slow cooker) – It cooks the chicken and sauce low and slow, so you get tender meat and creamy pasta with no fuss.
- Skillet or frying pan – Perfect for quickly searing the chicken after slow cooking to add extra flavor and texture.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – You’ll need these to chop onion, garlic, and bell peppers easily.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – Great for stirring pasta and sauce gently without scratching your crock pot.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for shrimp for a lighter twist that cooks quickly and pairs well with Cajun spices.
- Add diced smoked sausage for a smoky, meaty boost that’s classic in Cajun dishes.
- Mix in chopped spinach or kale near the end for a fresh, healthy pop of green and color.
- Try using pepper jack cheese instead of Parmesan for a little extra heat and creaminess.
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided)
- 3 cups chicken broth, divided
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 8 ounces rotini pasta (or pasta of choice)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional)
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 3 to 4 hours on low or 2 hours on high in the crock pot. Prep takes around 15-20 minutes. The cooking is mostly hands-off, with a quick 30-45 minute pasta step near the end, making it easy and convenient.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Cook the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts with half the Cajun seasoning. Place them at the bottom of your crock pot. Add chopped onion, garlic, and diced bell pepper over the chicken. Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into the crock pot. Cover and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 2 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
2. Prepare the Pasta and Sauce:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the crock pot and shred or cut it into bite-sized pieces. Add the rotini pasta, remaining 1 cup chicken broth, heavy cream, cream cheese, remaining Cajun seasoning, and Parmesan cheese to the crock pot. Stir everything well to combine.
3. Cook Pasta and Finish Dish:
Cover and cook on high for another 30-45 minutes until the pasta is tender and the sauce is creamy. Stir halfway through to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, heat olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium-high heat and season the shredded chicken with a bit of Cajun seasoning. Quickly sear the pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side until lightly browned.
Return the seared chicken to the crock pot and stir gently or arrange it on top. Adjust salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy a warm, creamy, and flavorful Cajun chicken pasta straight from your slow cooker!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it’s best to thaw it completely before adding to the crock pot to ensure even cooking. Thaw overnight in the fridge or use the cold water method for quicker thawing.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken and sauce in the crock pot, then refrigerate for up to 2 days. Add the pasta when you’re ready to serve and cook it for 30–45 minutes to finish the dish fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce thickens too much.
Can I Substitute the Pasta for a Low-Carb Option?
Yes! Spiralized zucchini or shirataki noodles work well as a low-carb alternative. Add them towards the end and cook just until tender to avoid becoming mushy.
