Crockpot Cajun Chicken Pasta

There’s something magical about coming home to a warm, delicious meal that’s been slowly cooking all day. That’s exactly what you get with this Crockpot Cajun Chicken Pasta—a creamy, spicy, and hearty dish that’s bursting with flavor. If you love bold Cajun spices, tender chicken, and rich, cheesy pasta, then this recipe is for you!

One of the best things about this dish is how easy it is to make. You just toss everything into the crockpot, let it do its thing, and come back hours later to a meal that tastes like it came from a fancy restaurant. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, cozy weekends, or even meal prep. Plus, since it’s made in a slow cooker, you don’t have to stand over the stove watching a pot—giving you more time to relax or get other things done.

If you’ve never tried Cajun flavors before, this is the perfect way to start. The seasoning adds just the right amount of spice and warmth without being overwhelming. And if you already love Cajun food, then you’ll appreciate how well the flavors come together in this creamy pasta dish. Let’s dive into why you’ll love it and how to make it!

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Why You’ll Love It

• Set it and forget it – The crockpot does all the work, so you don’t have to! Just dump in the ingredients and let it cook.
• Bold and creamy flavors – The Cajun seasoning brings heat and spice, while the creamy sauce balances everything out.
• Perfect for meal prep – This dish reheats beautifully, making it great for leftovers or meal prepping for the week.
• Customizable – You can adjust the spice level, swap in different proteins, or add veggies to make it your own.
• A crowd-pleaser – Whether it’s for family dinner or a gathering, everyone will love this comforting and flavorful dish.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this amazing Crockpot Cajun Chicken Pasta:

For the Chicken and Sauce

• 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (such as Rotel)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 (8 oz) block cream cheese, cubed
• 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese

For the Pasta

• 12 oz penne pasta (or any pasta of your choice)
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)

Optional Garnishes

• ¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Extra Parmesan cheese for topping
• Red pepper flakes for extra spice

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Kitchen Tools Needed

Before we start cooking, make sure you have the right tools on hand:

• Crockpot (Slow Cooker) – A 6-quart slow cooker works best for this recipe.
• Cutting board and knife – For cutting the chicken and chopping any garnishes.
• Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate measurements for spices, broth, and dairy.
• Mixing spoon or spatula – To stir and mix ingredients.
• Large pot – To cook the pasta separately before adding it to the crockpot.
• Strainer – For draining the pasta.

Having these tools ready will make the cooking process smooth and easy!

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Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

1. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and sprinkle them evenly with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.

Step 2: Assemble in the Crockpot

2. Place the seasoned chicken breasts into the slow cooker.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes with green chilies and chicken broth over the chicken.
4. Cover and cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

Step 3: Shred the Chicken

5. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the crockpot and shred it using two forks. Then, return it to the slow cooker.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

6. Add the cream cheese (cubed) and heavy cream to the crockpot. Stir well and cover again, letting it cook for another 10-15 minutes until the cheese melts into a creamy sauce.
7. Stir in shredded Parmesan cheese to enhance the creamy texture and flavor.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

8. While the sauce is coming together, cook the penne pasta according to the package instructions. Drain and toss with a tablespoon of butter (optional, for extra richness).

Step 6: Combine Everything

9. Add the cooked pasta into the crockpot and stir well to coat everything in the creamy Cajun sauce.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

10. Garnish with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

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Tips and Tricks for Success

1. Adjust the Spice Level

• If you love extra heat, add red pepper flakes or a little more Cajun seasoning.
• If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning and use mild diced tomatoes instead of Rotel.

2. Don’t Overcook the Pasta

• Since the pasta will soak up some sauce after mixing, cook it slightly al dente to avoid mushy noodles.

3. Make It Healthier

• Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
• Add veggies like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrients and color.

4. Use Different Proteins

• This recipe works great with shrimp, sausage, or even tofu instead of chicken! Adjust cooking times accordingly.

5. Storage and Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.

This Crockpot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a game-changer for busy weeknights, meal prepping, or whenever you crave something creamy and comforting with a spicy kick. Give it a try, and let me know how you like it!

Ingredient Substitutions and Variations

One of the best things about this Crockpot Cajun Chicken Pasta is how versatile it is! Here are some easy swaps and variations to customize the dish to your taste or dietary needs.

Substitutions

• Chicken: Swap boneless, skinless chicken breasts for chicken thighs for a juicier result. You can also use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken—just shred and add it toward the end of cooking.
• Heavy Cream: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk for a lighter version. For a dairy-free option, substitute with unsweetened coconut milk.
• Parmesan Cheese: Try cheddar, mozzarella, or pepper jack for a different cheesy twist.
• Cream Cheese: If you don’t have cream cheese, use mascarpone cheese or mix in a little extra heavy cream with shredded cheese.
• Pasta: While penne works great, you can use fettuccine, rotini, bowtie, or even gluten-free pasta.

Variations

• Seafood Version: Swap chicken for shrimp or add it in the last 15 minutes of cooking so it doesn’t overcook.
• Sausage Cajun Pasta: Use andouille sausage instead of (or in addition to) chicken for a smoky, spicy kick.
• Loaded Veggie Pasta: Add sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrients.
• Extra Spicy: Use extra Cajun seasoning, cayenne pepper, or sliced jalapeños to turn up the heat!
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the pasta and serve over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or spaghetti squash.

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Serving Suggestions

This Crockpot Cajun Chicken Pasta is filling on its own, but pairing it with a few side dishes makes for a complete meal.

Best Side Dishes:

• Garlic Bread – A warm, buttery slice is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Simple Green Salad – A light salad with balsamic or ranch dressing balances out the richness.
• Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted broccoli, asparagus, or Brussels sprouts for added texture and nutrition.
• Cornbread – The slight sweetness pairs beautifully with the spicy Cajun flavors.

Beverage Pairings:

• Iced Tea or Lemonade – Refreshing drinks to cool down the spice.
• White Wine – A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay complements the creamy sauce.
• Sparkling Water with Lime – A light and bubbly option for a fresh taste.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

How to Store:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: This dish can be frozen, but the sauce may separate slightly. To freeze, let it cool completely and store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

How to Reheat:

• Stovetop: Reheat in a pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth, milk, or cream to refresh the sauce. Stir frequently until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot. Add a little liquid if needed to keep it creamy.
• Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

Pro Tip: If the sauce thickens too much after storing, just add a bit of warm broth, milk, or cream while reheating to bring back the creamy texture.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

1. Can I make this without a slow cooker?

Yes! You can make it on the stovetop by cooking the chicken in a deep skillet over medium heat, then adding the other ingredients and simmering until everything is cooked and creamy.

2. How can I make this dish less spicy?

Reduce the Cajun seasoning by half and use mild diced tomatoes instead of Rotel. You can also add more cream or cheese to mellow out the spice.

3. Can I cook the pasta in the slow cooker?

It’s best to cook the pasta separately so it doesn’t get mushy. However, if you want to cook it in the crockpot, add uncooked pasta during the last 30 minutes of cooking, along with an extra ½ cup of broth.

4. What’s the best way to thicken the sauce?

If the sauce is too thin, stir in a slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons water) and let it cook for 10 minutes until thickened. You can also add more cream cheese or Parmesan cheese.

5. Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure your slow cooker is big enough (at least 6-7 quarts) and adjust cooking times slightly if needed.

6. Can I use store-bought Cajun seasoning?

Absolutely! But if you prefer homemade, mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper for a fresh blend.

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This Crockpot Cajun Chicken Pasta is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Whether you stick to the classic version or try out a fun variation, you’re in for a treat! Give it a try and let me know how it turns out.

Don’t forget to share your photos on Instagram and tag me @tasiahub. I’d love to see your creations!