Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Rich, spicy, and effortlessly creamy, Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the kind of meal that tastes like you spent all day in the kitchen—but your slow cooker does all the hard work. With tender chicken simmered in a spiced Cajun cream sauce and tossed with perfectly cooked pasta, this dish brings comfort food and bold Southern flavor together in one delicious bowl.

It’s the ultimate dump-and-go dinner: season the chicken, add a few pantry staples, and walk away. A few hours later, you’re greeted with a kitchen full of mouthwatering aroma and a crock pot full of saucy, cheesy, Cajun-seasoned goodness. Just add the pasta at the end, give it a quick toss, and dinner is served.

Whether you’re looking to meal prep for the week or serve something indulgent for Sunday supper, this dish checks all the boxes—hearty, flavorful, creamy, and so easy. It’s a crowd-pleaser that works just as well for picky eaters as it does for spice lovers (just adjust the heat to your liking). Serve it with a slice of garlic bread or a fresh salad and you’ve got a complete, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.

Why You’ll Love This Crock Pot Pasta

• Set It and Forget It: Minimal prep, then your slow cooker takes over—perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
• Creamy Cajun Flavor: The Cajun seasoning infuses the chicken and sauce with warmth, spice, and smoky depth.
• Ultra-Tender Chicken: Slow cooking makes the chicken juicy and easy to shred or slice.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks in the crock pot—just add the pasta at the end.
• Family Favorite: Kid-friendly with room to adjust the spice level to suit any palate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Crock Pot:

• 1½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning (plus more to taste)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for added richness)
• 1 bell pepper, sliced (red, yellow, or orange)
• 1 small onion, diced
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 oz cream cheese, cut into cubes
• 1½ cups shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese

At the End:

• 12 oz penne or rotini pasta, cooked separately
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Season and Add the Chicken

Place the chicken in the crock pot. Season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If you like, drizzle a little olive oil over the top for richness.

2. Add Veggies and Liquids

Add the sliced bell pepper and diced onion over the chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir gently, then dot the top with cream cheese cubes. Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2½–3 hours until the chicken is tender.

3. Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to mix with the sauce. Add the shredded cheese and stir until melted and combined.

4. Cook the Pasta Separately

While the chicken is being shredded, boil the pasta until al dente. Drain and set aside. (Cooking pasta separately prevents it from getting mushy in the crock pot.)

5. Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked pasta to the crock pot and stir until everything is well coated in the creamy Cajun sauce. If the sauce is too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water or warm broth.

6. Serve and Garnish

Spoon the creamy Cajun chicken pasta into bowls. Top with freshly chopped parsley and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the bold, creamy comfort in every bite.

Flavor Variations & Substitutions

• Make it Spicier: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or hot sauce for extra heat.
• Use Andouille Sausage: Swap some chicken for sliced Cajun sausage for a smokier, meatier flavor.
• Add Veggies: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or diced tomatoes during the last 30 minutes.
• Lighter Option: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduced-fat cream cheese.
• Different Cheese: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or a Cajun cheese blend.

How to Serve It

• With Garlic Bread: The creamy sauce begs to be sopped up with warm, crusty garlic bread.
• Side Salad: Serve with a crisp green salad with vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Family-Style: Place the crock pot in the center of the table and let everyone serve themselves.
• As Leftovers: The flavor deepens overnight—makes a delicious next-day lunch.

Pro Cooking Tips

• Cut cream cheese into cubes so it melts faster and blends smoothly into the sauce.
• Don’t overcook the pasta—keep it al dente so it holds up in the sauce.
• Taste before serving—adjust Cajun seasoning or salt as needed.
• Shred cheese yourself—pre-shredded blends contain anti-caking agents and melt less smoothly.
• Stir well before serving—the sauce thickens as it sits and will need a quick mix.

Storage and Reheating

• Store: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.
• Freezer Friendly: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutrition Info (Approx. per serving)

• Calories: 670
• Protein: 42g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fat: 36g
• Sodium: 880mg
• Fiber: 3g

Recipe Summary

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 4–5 hours (low) or 2½–3 hours (high)
• Total Time: 30 minutes active + slow cook time
• Servings: 6

FAQs

Can I cook the pasta in the crock pot?
You can, but for best texture, it’s recommended to cook pasta separately and stir in at the end.

Can I use frozen chicken?
For food safety, always thaw chicken before using in the crock pot.

How do I make it less spicy?
Use mild Cajun seasoning or reduce the amount. Skip red pepper flakes.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it reheats beautifully. Store sauce and pasta separately for best results.

What type of pasta works best?
Short pasta like penne, rotini, or bowtie hold the sauce well and reheat easily.

Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the sauce will be thinner. A bit of cornstarch slurry can help thicken it.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate slow cooker comfort food—packed with flavor, drenched in a rich and spicy cream sauce, and loaded with tender chicken. It’s bold, creamy, and irresistibly delicious with every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or feeding a crowd, this recipe is your ticket to a stress-free dinner that’s anything but ordinary. Toss it together, let the crock pot do the magic, and prepare to fall in love with Cajun-style creamy pasta.