There’s something so comforting about slow cooker meals.
The house fills with warm, inviting aromas, and dinner practically makes itself.
This Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is my go-to for busy nights when I want rich, creamy comfort with a spicy kick.
Tender chicken, cheesy sauce, and perfectly cooked penne come together in one pot for a hassle-free meal.
Why I Love This Recipe
Hands-off cooking—just toss everything in and forget about it.
Bold, creamy flavors with just the right amount of heat.
Family-friendly—my kids always ask for seconds.
Minimal cleanup—one pot means less mess.
Leftovers taste even better the next day.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Chicken breasts — lean, tender, and cooks beautifully in the crock pot.
Cajun seasoning — adds smoky, spicy depth.
Heavy whipping cream — makes the sauce rich and luscious.
Chicken broth — keeps pasta moist and flavorful.
Parmesan cheese — salty and nutty, melts perfectly into the sauce.
Penne pasta — holds the creamy sauce wonderfully.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use fresh Parmesan cheese for best melting.
Stir the pasta halfway through cooking to prevent sticking.
Add extra broth if you prefer a saucier dish.
Substitute half-and-half for cream for a lighter version.
Adjust Cajun seasoning to your preferred spice level.
How to Make Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Step 1: Add Ingredients to the Crockpot
In a 6-quart slow cooker, add chicken breasts, heavy cream, chicken broth, butter, Cajun seasoning, and garlic powder.
Stir gently to combine.
Step 2: Slow Cook the Chicken
Cover and cook on low for 4–6 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove chicken from the crockpot and shred or chop into large chunks. Set aside.
Step 4: Stir Sauce and Add Pasta
Whisk the sauce in the crockpot to combine the butter and seasonings evenly.
Return the chicken to the pot and stir in the uncooked penne pasta.
Step 5: Cook the Pasta
Cover and cook on high for 20–30 minutes, until the pasta is tender and fully cooked.
Stir once halfway if possible.
Step 6: Add Parmesan and Finish
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
Cover for 5 more minutes to let the cheese melt into the sauce.
Step 7: Serve Warm
Give everything a final stir. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, spicy goodness!
What to Serve It With
Garlic bread or cheesy breadsticks.
A crisp side salad with ranch or vinaigrette.
Roasted veggies like broccoli or green beans.
A cold glass of iced tea or light white wine.
Variations / Substitutions
Swap chicken for shrimp or sausage.
Use rotini or rigatoni pasta instead of penne.
Add veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
Boost spice with cayenne or hot sauce.
Storage & Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
Not recommended to freeze due to cream separation.
Great for next-day lunches or baked pasta casseroles.
FAQs
Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
Yes, just add it later with the pasta and reduce cooking time.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
Half-and-half or evaporated milk works but will be less rich.
Can I make it spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or extra Cajun seasoning as desired.
What if the pasta isn’t cooking evenly?
Stir halfway through cooking to prevent clumping.
Can I cook pasta separately?
Yes, boil pasta separately and mix in after shredding chicken.
Does this work with gluten-free pasta?
Yes, but watch cooking time to avoid overcooking.
How do I know the chicken is cooked?
It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F and shred easily.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is comfort food made easy.
Creamy, flavorful, and perfectly spicy—it’s a meal the whole family will love.
The best part? It’s a one-pot dinner that frees you up for everything else.
