I can’t tell you how often my weekends are filled with the comforting aroma of something bubbling away in the slow cooker! One of my all-time favorites that never fails to impress is my Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. It has just the right kick to liven things up, and the creamy sauce? Oh my goodness, it’s like a hug in a bowl!
This dish brings back memories of family gatherings where we would all dig in together, and I’d watch as everyone couldn’t help but go back for seconds (and thirds!). It’s a warm, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion—and let’s be honest, it’s incredibly easy to make. So, let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!
What’s in Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Chicken Breast: The backbone of this dish! I prefer using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their tenderness and ability to soak up all the delicious flavors.
Cajun Seasoning: Ah, the magic! This blend of spices adds the bold, zesty flavor that makes this dish truly Cajun. I love using a store-bought variety, but you can easily whip up your own with spices like paprika, cayenne, and garlic powder.
Cream Cheese: This gives the sauce its creamy richness. I always use full-fat cream cheese for the best texture and flavor, but I’ve had success with the lighter versions too when I’m counting calories.
Chicken Broth: This adds a deep flavor and helps keep everything juicy. Low-sodium chicken broth is my go-to to control the salt levels.
Bell Peppers: For a fresh crunch and a pop of color! I usually use a mix of red and green bell peppers, but any color will work.
Pasta: I like using penne or rotini as they hold onto that creamy sauce beautifully. You’ll want to cook it al dente for the best texture since it’s going to finish cooking in the sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Because is it even pasta without cheese? A good sprinkle at the end makes everything taste even fancier!
Is Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Good for You?
Ah, the health debate! Let’s discuss what makes this dish a great choice in moderation.
Chicken Breast: A lean protein source that helps build and repair body tissues, chicken is a fantastic dietary staple.
Cream Cheese: While it does contain fat, it also has calcium, which is great for bone health. You can opt for lighter versions to curtail calorie intake without sacrificing too much creaminess.
Bell Peppers: These beauties are packed with vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. Honestly, they’re kind of the unsung heroes of the dish!
That said, be mindful of the portion size, especially if you’re watching your calorie intake. This creamy dish is rich and filling, so a little goes a long way!
Ingredients List
This recipe serves about 4-6 people.
– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 8 ounces cream cheese
– 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
1. Start by placing the chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot.
2. Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning over the chicken, making sure it’s well-coated.
3. Add the diced bell peppers on top of the chicken.
4. Pour the chicken broth over everything to keep things moist.
5. Cut the cream cheese into chunks and add it to the pot. It doesn’t need to be mixed yet; it will melt nicely!
6. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for about 3-4 hours.
7. When there’s about 30 minutes left in the cooking time, boil the pasta according to package instructions but stop just before it’s fully cooked (al dente).
8. Once the chicken is cooked thoroughly and easily shreds with a fork, shred it directly in the crock pot from the sides for extra flavor.
9. Stir in the cooked pasta and grated Parmesan cheese. If it’s too thick, add a splash more chicken broth.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let everything mingle for a few minutes before serving.
Spice It Up: Variations and Serving Suggestions!
Feel free to mix things up! You can add **spinach** or **kale** for some extra greens. If you want it extra fiery, toss in a few slices of **jalapeño** or adjust the Cajun seasoning to your liking.
For serving, I love to pair this creamy pasta with some crusty **garlic bread** and a simple **arugula salad** dressed with lemon juice. It balances the richness perfectly!
Now that you have all the details, I encourage you to try making this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta; I promise it’ll be a hit at your dinner table! Plus, there’s nothing like the satisfaction of coming home to a meal that has been slowly cooked to perfection. Don’t forget to share your cooking adventures with me—I can’t wait to hear your stories!