It started one hectic Tuesday when I forgot to defrost dinner and had just twenty minutes before heading out for a school meeting. I tossed some chicken, cream, broth, and Cajun spices into the slow cooker, unsure how it’d turn out. Hours later, I walked into the most incredible smellو creamy, spicy, savory magic.
With a quick stir of pasta and parmesan, it became a dish I now rely on when I want big flavor with barely any effort. This slow-cooked pasta with a kick has since earned its spot as a family-favorite comfort food classic.
Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne
Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne is the kind of easy, bold-flavored dish that checks all the boxes for a weeknight win. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or just need a dependable slow cooker meal, this one delivers.
- Set it and forget it: You only need 10 minutes to prep, then the slow cooker takes care of the rest.
- Big Cajun flavor: The seasoning mix infuses the chicken and cream sauce with just the right amount of heat.
- Creamy comfort: Parmesan and cream combine to make a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of pasta.
- Feeds a crowd: One batch makes enough for 6–8 generous servings.
- Works with what you have: Swap pasta shapes, adjust spice levels, or add veggies, this dish is super flexible.
If you’re looking for a comforting slow cooker recipe that balances creamy, spicy, and satisfying in every bite, this one’s a keeper.
Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create the creamiest Cajun chicken pasta in your slow cooker. These quantities make about 6 servings:
- 1½ pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts – for lean, juicy shredded chicken
- 2 cups heavy cream – creates the silky Cajun-style sauce
- 1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth – adds depth and keeps everything moist
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter – adds richness and helps the sauce come together
- 2½ tablespoons Cajun seasoning – adjust based on your spice preference
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – builds the savory flavor
- 12 ounces uncooked penne pasta – sturdy and perfect for soaking up the sauce
- ¾ cup grated parmesan cheese – melts into the sauce for a creamy finish
- Salt and black pepper to taste – optional, depending on your seasoning blend
Use fresh herbs like parsley or basil for garnish if you’d like a pop of color on top. This pasta dish is both flavorful and visually delicious.
Try it alongside another slow cooker favorite like this Slow Cooker Crack Chicken Soup if you’re building a full comfort-food meal plan.
How to Make Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne (Step-by-Step Instructions)
Making Cajun Chicken Penne in the slow cooker is surprisingly hands-off. Follow these steps for a perfectly cooked, creamy pasta every time:
- Layer your base: Place chicken breasts into a 6-quart crock pot. Pour in heavy cream and chicken broth, then add butter, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder.
- Cook the chicken: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches 165°F internally and is tender enough to shred.
- Shred the chicken: Remove the chicken and use two forks (or a hand mixer) to shred into bite-sized pieces. Return it to the crock pot and stir.
- Add pasta: Pour in the uncooked penne and stir to combine with the creamy sauce and chicken. Cover and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, checking for doneness.
- Finish with cheese: Once the pasta is tender, stir in the grated parmesan. Let it melt for 5 minutes, then serve warm.
This creamy slow cooker dish pairs beautifully with something simple like Marry Me Chicken Crock Pot when you’re feeding a crowd.
Serving Suggestions for Cajun Chicken Pasta
Once your Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne is ready, it’s time to plate it up and enjoy. Here are some simple but tasty ways to serve it:
Pair it with:
- A crisp green salad: Try mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette to balance the creamy pasta.
- Garlic bread or breadsticks: Perfect for scooping up extra sauce from the plate.
- Roasted vegetables: Broccoli, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted with olive oil and garlic add color and nutrition.
- Steamed green beans: Toss with a little lemon juice for brightness.
For a fancier touch, serve the pasta in shallow bowls and sprinkle fresh parsley or a pinch of red pepper flakes over the top.
Hosting a family dinner? Pair this with Slow Cooker Chicken Noodle Soup for a cozy, comforting spread that makes everyone happy.
Cajun Chicken Pasta Variations & Customization
This recipe is easy to tailor to your taste, pantry, and dietary needs. Here are a few variations to make it your own:
- Swap the protein: Use boneless chicken thighs for extra tenderness or try cooked shredded rotisserie chicken for a shortcut.
- Add veggies: Stir in chopped bell peppers, spinach, or steamed broccoli when you add the pasta.
- Try a different pasta shape: Penne is great, but rotini, bowtie, or fettuccine also work well in this recipe.
- Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the parmesan or use a plant-based cheese.
- Lower the heat: Halve the Cajun seasoning if cooking for kids or sensitive palates, or use a mild blend.
You can also meal-prep this recipe by cooking the chicken ahead and refrigerating it until you’re ready to add pasta and finish cooking.
If you like bold and hearty flavors, you’ll also love the creamy comfort of this Crock Pot Mississippi Chicken.
Storage & Reheating Tips for Cajun Chicken Pasta
Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne stores well and reheats beautifully. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty:
- Storage: Let leftovers cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as cream-based sauces may separate and pasta can become mushy when thawed.
- Reheating (microwave): Reheat individual portions in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until hot throughout.
- Reheating (stovetop): Place in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce as it warms.
Always stir well while reheating to avoid hot spots and dry patches. Pasta will absorb some sauce in the fridge, so loosening it helps bring it back to its creamy best.
Pro Tips for the Best Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne
Want your pasta to turn out perfectly every time? These tips will help:
- Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that may prevent smooth melting. Grate your own for best texture.
- Don’t overcook the pasta: Add pasta only near the end of cooking. Set a timer and check for doneness after 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust: Cajun seasoning blends vary. Start with less, then taste before serving and adjust salt or spice.
- Shred while hot: Chicken shreds more easily while warm. Use two forks or a mixer for speed.
- Use low-sodium broth: To control salt levels, especially with the seasoning mix and cheese.
By following these tips, you’ll get flavorful, creamy results without ending up with mushy pasta or bland sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Cajun Chicken Pasta
Even an easy recipe like this can go sideways if you’re not careful. Avoid these common errors:
- Adding pasta too early: Cooking it for hours will make it soggy. Always wait until the end.
- Not stirring after adding pasta: Pasta needs to be submerged to cook evenly in the sauce.
- Overseasoning: Cajun seasoning can be salty or spicy. Start with less and taste before adding more.
- Skipping the cheese step: Parmesan melts into the sauce and adds creaminess. Don’t leave it out or substitute with a bland cheese.
- Not checking chicken temp: Undercooked or overcooked chicken ruins the dish. Use a meat thermometer to confirm 165°F.
Cook smart and your Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne will always come out delicious, creamy, and perfectly spiced.
Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne Recipe Wrap-Up
This slow cooker Cajun chicken pasta is proof that creamy comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated. With tender chicken, a rich Cajun cream sauce, and pasta that soaks up every drop, it’s the kind of dish you’ll crave again and again.
Make it once and you’ll see why this spicy, hearty, weeknight wonder belongs in your regular meal rotation.
FAQs About Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne
What pasta works best in Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne?
Penne is ideal because it holds sauce inside its tubes, but rotini, bowtie, or ziti are great alternatives. Just avoid delicate pasta like angel hair, which breaks down too quickly in the slow cooker.
Can I make Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne less spicy?
Yes. Start with half the Cajun seasoning and taste before serving. Some blends are hotter than others, and you can always add more spice at the table if needed.
Should I cook the pasta separately for Cajun Chicken Pasta?
You can, but it’s not necessary. Cooking it directly in the slow cooker saves time and dishes. Just be sure to add it only in the last 20–30 minutes and stir well so it cooks evenly.
Can I use chicken thighs for this Cajun chicken crockpot pasta?
Yes, boneless skinless thighs stay juicy and work beautifully in slow cooker recipes. They’ll shred just like breasts and can give the dish a bit more richness.
How do I store and reheat Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or cream to revive the sauce. Microwave in short intervals or warm gently on the stovetop while stirring often.
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Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy, spicy, and packed with slow-cooked comfort, this Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne is an easy weeknight dinner full of flavor.
Ingredients
1½ lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cups heavy cream
1½ cups low-sodium chicken broth
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2½ tbsp Cajun seasoning
1 tsp garlic powder
12 oz uncooked penne pasta
¾ cup grated parmesan cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Place chicken, cream, broth, butter, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder in the crock pot.
2. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours.
3. Remove chicken and shred, then return it to the crock pot.
4. Add uncooked pasta and stir well, cook on high 20–30 minutes until tender.
5. Stir in parmesan cheese, let melt for 5 minutes, then serve.
Notes
Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spice.
Add veggies like bell peppers or broccoli for variety.
Use freshly grated parmesan for best texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Cajun, American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 465
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 133mg
Keywords: Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Penne, Healthy Crockpot Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipes
