A rich and creamy Cajun chicken pasta made effortlessly in a slow cooker, delivering big flavors with minimal fuss.
Prep Time:20 minutes
Cook Time:180 minutes
Total Time:200 minutes
Yield:4 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Slow Cooking
Cuisine:Cajun
Diet:Gluten-Free, Dairy-Optional
Ingredients
Scale
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 bell pepper, sliced
1 small onion, thinly sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
1 cup chicken broth (use low-sodium if preferred)
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
8 oz penne pasta (or your pasta of choice)
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Put the chicken breasts in a large bowl. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Rub to coat the chicken.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and brown the chicken for 2 to 3 minutes per side.
Transfer the chicken to the slow cooker and layer the bell pepper, onion, and garlic on top.
Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Cover and cook on low for 4 to 5 hours or high for 2 to 3 hours.
Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and return it to the slow cooker.
Stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan until melted and creamy.
Cook pasta separately according to package instructions, then add it to the slow cooker.
Mix well and let warm on low for 15 to 20 minutes.
Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
For lighter sauce, use light cream or half-and-half. Gluten-free pasta works fine; ensure to cook according to package directions.