Description
A rich and creamy Cajun chicken pasta cooked to perfection in the slow cooker, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bell pepper, sliced (any color)
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 1 cup chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 8 oz penne pasta (or pasta of choice)
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry. In a large bowl, drizzle the breasts with olive oil. Sprinkle on Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub to coat evenly.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of oil and brown the chicken 2–3 minutes per side — just enough to build color (this boosts flavor but is optional).
- Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
- Layer the sliced bell pepper, sliced onion, and minced garlic over the chicken. Pour the diced tomatoes (with juices) and chicken broth over everything.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreddable.
- Remove the chicken to a plate, shred with two forks, then return the shredded meat to the crock pot and stir.
- Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan until melted and combined. Taste and adjust seasoning (a pinch more salt or Cajun if desired).
- Meanwhile, cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and reserve a little pasta water if the sauce needs loosening.
- Add the drained pasta to the crock pot and gently toss until well coated. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water or extra broth.
- Allow the assembled pasta and sauce to heat together on low for 15–20 minutes so the flavors marry. Serve hot garnished with chopped parsley.
Notes
For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half plus cornstarch. Use gluten-free pasta if preferred.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 300 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Cajun