This Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is a warm and flavorful dish. It combines tender chicken, pasta, and a zesty Cajun sauce that’s sure to make your taste buds dance!
Who knew making dinner could be this simple? Just toss everything in the crock pot and let it work its magic. I love it for busy days when I want a tasty meal waiting for me!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal for this dish. If you’re looking for a quicker option, shredded rotisserie chicken works well too!
Alfredo Sauce: A jar of Alfredo sauce makes this recipe simple. You can swap it out for a homemade version or use a light cream sauce if you’re watching calories.
Cajun Seasoning: This is where the flavor comes from! If you’re out, try a mix of paprika, cayenne pepper, and dried herbs to get a similar taste.
Pasta: I used penne, but feel free to swap in any pasta shape you love, like fusilli or bowties. Just ensure it cooks well in the crock pot!
Cheese: Mozzarella is delicious here. You can substitute with cheddar or pepper jack for a different flavor. If you want it creamy, definitely add the heavy cream!
What’s the Right Way to Cook Pasta in a Crock Pot?
Cooking pasta in a crock pot can be tricky, but here’s how to do it without a mushy mess:
- After shredding the chicken, add the uncooked pasta directly to the mix in the crock pot. Stir it well to coat.
- Cover and cook on high for 30-45 minutes, but keep an eye on it! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check for doneness; the pasta should be al dente. If it’s not ready, give it a few more minutes, but don’t overcook.
This method ensures your pasta has the right bite and absorbs all those tasty flavors from the sauce!
Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 (16-ounce) jar Alfredo sauce
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 ounces penne pasta (uncooked)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for creamier sauce)
- Fresh parsley or green onions, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish requires about 15 minutes for prep and then you’ll cook it in the crock pot. If you choose the low setting, expect around 4-5 hours, or 2-3 hours on high. It’s a perfect recipe for a busy day when you want a hearty meal without spending all your time in the kitchen!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Chicken:
Start by placing the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot. This is the base of your flavorful dish!
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a medium bowl, combine the Alfredo sauce, drained diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Stir it all together until smooth and combined.
3. Combine in the Crock Pot:
Pour your sauce mixture over the chicken breasts in the crock pot, making sure the chicken is well-coated in that zesty goodness.
4. Cook the Chicken:
Cover the crock pot and set it to cook on low for 4-5 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. The chicken should be tender and easily shredded when it’s done.
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the crock pot. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
6. Add the Pasta:
Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot. Now, toss in the uncooked penne pasta, stirring gently to coat it in the sauce.
7. Cook the Pasta:
Cover the pot again and cook on high for an additional 30-45 minutes. Stir occasionally, checking until the pasta is al dente.
8. Add Cheese and Cream:
Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese and the heavy cream (if you want a creamier sauce). Cover and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
9. Serve and Garnish:
It’s time to dig in! Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, spicy Cajun Chicken Pasta!
Enjoy making this easy and tasty dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends!
FAQ for Easy Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Can I Use Frozen Chicken in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but the cooking time will increase. If using frozen, cook on high for about 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. It’s best to thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight for even cooking if you have the time!
What Can I Substitute for Alfredo Sauce?
If you don’t have Alfredo sauce on hand, you can use a cream-based sauce, homemade white sauce, or even a jar of marinara mixed with cream for a different flavor profile. Just be mindful that the taste will change a bit!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or cream to the pasta to help restore its creaminess. You can heat it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Can I Add Vegetables to This Dish?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or even spinach. If adding fresh vegetables, toss them in during the last hour of cooking to keep them tender but not mushy.
