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Bowl of creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta prepared in a slow cooker.

Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

A rich and creamy pasta dish infused with Cajun spices and tender chicken, perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 7 hours
Total Time 7 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Cajun, Southern
Calories: 540
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken
  • 1.5 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts Opt for fresh chicken for the best texture.
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning Add more or less to adjust spice level.
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil For browning the chicken.
Vegetables
  • 1 each red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 each green bell pepper, sliced
  • 0.5 each yellow onion, sliced
For the Sauce and Pasta
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed Full-fat offers the best flavor.
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese Use good quality for best results.
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta Feel free to swap for your favorite shape.
  • for garnish Fresh parsley
  • for serving Extra Parmesan cheese
  • to taste Crushed red pepper flakes Add for extra spice.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a mixing bowl, generously rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If time permits, let the chicken marinate for 15-20 minutes for deeper flavor.
Cooking
  1. Place the seasoned chicken into the slow cooker. Layer it with the sliced bell peppers and onions.
  2. Pour the chicken broth over the top to ensure everything stays moist and flavorful.
  3. Set your slow cooker on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  4. Carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
  5. Return the shredded chicken to the pot, stirring well to incorporate everything.
  6. Add cream cheese and shredded Parmesan, stirring until everything is melted and the sauce becomes creamy.
  7. Prepare the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and mix it into the slow cooker, ensuring every piece is coated.
  8. Spoon the dish into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley and additional Parmesan cheese.

Notes

This dish is great for leftovers and stores well for 4-5 days in the fridge.