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Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta

Tender shredded chicken slow-cooked in a bold Cajun spice blend with bell peppers and diced tomatoes, finished with heavy cream and pasta for a rich, satisfying weeknight dinner.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 4 hours 15 minutes
Total Time 4 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Cajun
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 2 cups penne or rotini pasta uncooked
  • 1 cup chicken broth reduced sodium preferred
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies 1 can, undrained
  • 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 cup bell peppers sliced, any color
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese optional, for serving
  • fresh parsley optional, for garnish

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (6-quart recommended)
  • Large pot for boiling pasta
  • Two forks for shredding chicken
  • Small mixing bowl
  • Cutting board and knife

Method
 

  1. Place chicken breasts or thighs flat in the bottom of the slow cooker in a single layer.
  2. Add chopped onion and sliced bell peppers directly over the chicken.
  3. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle evenly over the chicken and vegetables.
  4. Pour chicken broth and the entire can of undrained diced tomatoes with green chilies over the top. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours.
  5. About 30 minutes before serving, cook pasta in a separate pot according to package directions until just al dente. Drain and set aside.
  6. Remove chicken from the slow cooker and shred using two forks. Return shredded chicken to the pot and stir to combine with the juices.
  7. Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Set slow cooker to high and cook uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
  8. Add cooked pasta to the slow cooker and fold gently until every noodle is coated. Top with Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

For less heat, reduce Cajun seasoning to 1 tsp and use plain diced tomatoes. Cook pasta just until al dente so it holds its texture after being stirred into the sauce. Slightly undercook pasta before freezing for best results after reheating.