Introduction
Welcome to the world of cozy, delicious meals that bring the family together! Today, I’m excited to share a soul-warming recipe for Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. Imagine creamy pasta coated in a savory sauce, the tender chicken infused with the zesty kick of Cajun spices, and finished off with melted cheese. This dish is perfect for busy days when you want an easy yet satisfying meal that simmers away in your crock pot while you go about your day.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.5 oz) can cream of chicken soup
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 8 oz penne pasta
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 6-8 hours
Total Time: 6-8 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Place the boneless, skinless chicken breasts at the bottom of your crock pot, letting their natural juices set the stage for flavor.
- In a small bowl, blend the Cajun seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Sprinkle this fragrant mixture generously over the chicken.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic on top of the seasoned chicken, creating a fragrant and flavorful base.
- Pour in the creamy goodness of the cream of chicken soup, followed by the undrained diced tomatoes and chicken broth, ensuring everything is covered and surrounded by this delightful medley.
- Secure the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- About 30 minutes before serving, shred the chicken using two forks, allowing it to soak up the surrounding flavors.
- Stir in the heavy cream and uncooked penne pasta, then cover and cook on high for an additional 30 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente and perfectly cooked.
- Lastly, once the pasta is cooked, mix in the shredded cheese until it melts into a creamy, dreamy sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor!
Notes or Tips
Feel free to adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your taste; you can always add more if you enjoy an extra kick! For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth. If you want to make it even creamier, add more heavy cream right before serving or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.
Cooking Techniques
Crock pots are amazing for infusing flavors over long cooking periods, allowing the spices to meld beautifully with the ingredients. Shredding the chicken halfway through ensures it becomes infused with the sauce, making every bite delightful. Remember to check the pasta periodically towards the cooking end to prevent overcooking—perfect al dente pasta is what we’re aiming for!
FAQ
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! While penne works beautifully, feel free to swap it out for rotini or fusilli. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, this dish freezes quite well! Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Thaw in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Conclusion
This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is truly a one-pot wonder that brings vibrant flavors and a comforting touch to the dinner table. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. So grab your crock pot, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to this creamy delight that everyone will love!