Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Author: Chef Elsa Prep Time: 25 min
Cook Time: 300 min Total Time: 325 min
Yield: 4 servings Category: Dishes Cuisine: Southern Diet: Gluten-Free (if using gluten-free pasta)

Description

Description A cozy, slow-cooked pasta dish featuring tender chicken, tangy Cajun seasoning, and a creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

  • 1 1/2 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 4 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 12 oz penne pasta
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
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Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub both sides evenly with the Cajun seasoning, and add a pinch of salt and several turns of black pepper.
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken breasts for 1–2 minutes per side until lightly browned (optional).
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the crock pot and scatter minced garlic and diced red bell pepper around them. Pour in the chicken broth and cover the slow cooker.
  4. Cook on low for 4 to 5 hours, or until the chicken is tender enough to shred.
  5. Remove chicken from the crock pot, shred or slice, and return it to the slow cooker.
  6. Add heavy cream and softened cream cheese to the crock pot, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
  7. Cook the penne pasta according to package instructions, then drain.
  8. Add the drained penne and grated Parmesan to the crock pot, stirring to coat the pasta in the sauce. Adjust seasoning if needed.
  9. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb flavors, then garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  1. Notes
  2. For best results, cook pasta al dente to prevent it from becoming mushy. Use fresh parsley for garnish for an added flavor contrast.