Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Yes, but make sure your slow cooker’s big enough. I once tried it in a smaller one, and let’s just say dinner was delayed while I transferred pots. If doubling, increase broth slightly but watch for overflow.

Can I use frozen chicken?

You can, but I prefer thawed. Frozen chicken can raise the overall cooking time and leave uneven cooking. If using frozen, cook on low 7–8 hours and check with a thermometer.

Is this family-friendly for kids?

Absolutely. The spice is gentle unless you crank it up. Many kids will love the creamy texture. Start with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and add more to adult servings if needed.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Swap cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute. The texture will differ, but the flavor can still be very satisfying.

Penne or rotini work great because they hold sauce. Short, ridged pastas give the most saucy bites at the table.

Easy Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta: Easy & Flavorful Dinner 2026

Name: Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 6 h
Total time: 6 h 20 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 1 teaspoon paprika; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 green bell pepper, sliced; 1/2 yellow onion, sliced; 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed; 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese; 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta; Fresh parsley, for garnish; Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving; Crushed red pepper flakes, for extra heat

Description

This easy and flavorful crock pot recipe combines tender chicken with a creamy Cajun sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 green bell pepper, sliced
1/2 yellow onion, sliced
3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
12 ounces penne or rotini pasta
Fresh parsley, for garnish
Extra Parmesan cheese, for serving
Crushed red pepper flakes, for extra heat

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Instructions

Rub the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Optional: marinate for 15–20 minutes for deeper flavor.
Place seasoned chicken in the slow cooker with sliced bell peppers, onion, and chicken broth.
Cover and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours, until chicken is tender.
Remove chicken, shred with forks, then return to slow cooker and stir into the juices.
Add cream cheese and Parmesan, stirring until melted and creamy. Cook an additional 10–15 minutes on low.
Cook pasta separately according to package directions until al dente. Drain well.
Stir pasta into the slow cooker mixture until everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley, extra cheese, or red pepper flakes.

Notes

Leftovers keep well in the fridge for 3-4 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or broth. For a vegetarian option, use mushrooms and firm tofu.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 360 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 450
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 50g
Fiber: 4g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 75mg