This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the perfect mix of creamy comfort and just the right amount of spice. Tender chicken, pasta, and a rich, flavorful Cajun sauce all slow-cooked together to create a dish that’s both easy and satisfying. The creaminess balances the Cajun spices beautifully, making every bite cozy and delicious.
I love making this meal when I want something hearty but don’t want to spend a lot of time in the kitchen. I just toss everything into the crock pot, set it, and come back to a meal that tastes like it took hours of work. The slow cooker really lets the flavors blend so well, and the chicken stays super tender, which I always appreciate.
One of my favorite ways to serve this is with a little sprinkle of fresh parsley and maybe a side of garlic bread to soak up the sauce. It’s the kind of dinner that feels like a warm hug, perfect for busy weeknights or when friends come over for something tasty without too much fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken breasts: Using boneless, skinless chicken breasts works great for quick cooking. You can swap for thighs if you prefer juicier meat—they’re a bit more forgiving in the crock pot.
Cajun seasoning: This gives the dish its spicy kick. If you don’t have a Cajun mix, blend paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, and thyme for a simple homemade version.
Penne pasta: Penne holds the creamy sauce well, but feel free to use rotini or rigatoni. Just stick to similar cooking times to avoid mushy pasta.
Heavy cream & Parmesan cheese: These create the creamy texture and rich flavor. For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich.
How Can I Keep the Chicken Tender and Flavorful in the Crock Pot?
Slow cooking is perfect for tender chicken but seasoning and searing add extra flavor. Here’s what I do:
- Rub chicken with half the Cajun seasoning before searing.
- Quick sear in a hot skillet locks in juices and adds a tasty crust.
- Cook on low for even, gentle heat that keeps chicken moist.
- Don’t skip resting the chicken before slicing—it helps juices redistribute.
These simple steps make the chicken juicy and flavorful every time.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Crock pot (slow cooker) – it’s key for the slow, even cooking that keeps the chicken tender and sauce rich.
- Large skillet – for searing the chicken to add flavor and a nice crust before slow cooking.
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – great for stirring pasta and sauce without scratching your crock pot.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your seasonings and liquids just right for the best flavor balance.
- Chef’s knife and cutting board – for chopping onion, garlic, and slicing chicken easily and safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken breasts for thighs if you want even juicier, more flavorful meat that holds up well in slow cooking.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for extra veggies and a bit of sweetness that balances the Cajun spices.
- Use smoked sausage in place of chicken for a smoky twist that pairs great with creamy pasta.
- Stir in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a splash of hot sauce for a tangy or spicier kick to match your taste.
Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken & Sauce:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, divided
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta & Garnish:
- 8 oz penne pasta (uncooked)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
Time You’ll Need:
The recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep, then 4 hours cooking on low (or 2 hours on high) for the chicken in the crock pot. After adding the pasta, you’ll cook an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour until the pasta is tender. Overall, plan for about 5 hours on low, or 3 hours on high including prep and cooking time.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Season and Sear the Chicken:
Rub the chicken breasts evenly with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This adds flavor and locks in juices. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot:
In your crock pot, add the chicken broth, chopped onion, minced garlic, and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Stir everything together. Place the seared chicken breasts on top.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
4. Add Pasta and Finish Cooking:
Remove the chicken from the crock pot and shred or slice it. Add the uncooked penne pasta into the crock pot and stir. Cover and cook on high for 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the pasta is tender.
5. Make it Creamy and Serve:
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until the sauce is creamy and smooth. Taste and add salt or pepper as needed. Return the shredded or sliced chicken to the crock pot and mix gently. Serve garnished with fresh parsley and, if you like, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for a little extra heat.
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, but be sure to fully thaw the chicken first to ensure even cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method by placing it in a sealed bag submerged in cold water for faster thawing.
Can I Substitute Other Pasta for Penne?
Absolutely! Fusilli, rigatoni, or rotini are great alternatives. Just keep an eye on cooking time, as smaller or thinner pasta may cook faster and become mushy if left too long.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
You can skip the chicken and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers instead. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth, and follow the same cooking times for great flavor and texture.
