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Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for Cozy Weeknight Dinners

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta captures the vibrant spirit of Cajun cuisine, delivering a comforting blend of flavors perfect for busy weeknight dinners.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours
Total Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 2 lbs Chicken breasts Substitute with skinless thighs for more moisture.
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Can swap for any cooking oil.
For the Seasoning
  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning Use less or opt for a milder blend if sensitive to heat.
  • 1 tsp Garlic powder Fresh garlic can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 tsp Onion powder Onion can take its place for extra texture.
  • 1 tsp Smoked paprika Regular paprika is a milder alternative.
  • to taste Salt and black pepper Adjust to your taste.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 Bell pepper Any color variety can work.
  • 1 large Onion
  • 3 cloves Garlic Fresh minced enhances flavor.
For the Sauce
  • 1 can Diced tomatoes Crushed tomatoes can substitute for a thicker texture.
  • 1 cup Chicken broth Swap with vegetable broth for a lighter taste.
  • 1 cup Heavy cream Use coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
  • 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese Can replace with nutritional yeast for a dairy-free choice.
For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Penne pasta Any pasta variety can be used.

Equipment

  • Slow Cooker
  • Skillet

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Let sit for a few minutes.
  2. Brown the Chicken: Sear the seasoned chicken in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to slow cooker.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped bell peppers, diced onions, and minced garlic, sauté for about 3-4 minutes. Layer over the chicken in the slow cooker.
  4. Add Liquid Ingredients: Pour in the diced tomatoes and chicken broth over the chicken and vegetables. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cook: Cover and let cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
  6. Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken and shred it into bite-sized pieces. Return to slow cooker.
  7. Mix in Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Heat for about 10 minutes.
  8. Cook the Pasta: Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve some pasta water.
  9. Combine and Heat: Fold the cooked pasta into the slow cooker with the creamy chicken mixture. Heat through for another 15-20 minutes.
  10. Serve and Garnish: Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your dish!

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 10gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 4gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 40mgCalcium: 10mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Adjust the spice level and add more vegetables as desired. Store leftovers in an airtight container.

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