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Easy & Flavorful Dinner Recipe

Easy & Flavorful Dinner Recipe
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★★★★★

4.7 from 10 reviews

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is an easy, flavorful dinner that combines tender slow-cooked chicken with a creamy, cheesy Cajun sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. With vibrant bell peppers and a hint of spice, it’s a comforting meal ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken and Seasoning

  • 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

Vegetables and Broth

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 yellow onion, sliced
  • 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth

Dairy and Pasta

  • 8 ounces cream cheese, cubed
  • 1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 12 ounces penne or rotini pasta

Garnishes

  • Fresh parsley, for garnish
  • Extra Parmesan cheese, for topping
  • Crushed red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

  1. Season the Chicken: Rub the chicken breasts evenly with Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. For deeper flavor, you can marinate the chicken for 15–20 minutes before cooking.
  2. Start Slow Cooking: Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker. Add the sliced red and green bell peppers, sliced yellow onion, and pour in the chicken broth. Set the cooker to low and cook for 6–7 hours, or on high for 3–4 hours until the chicken is tender.
  3. Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded chicken back to the slow cooker.
  4. Add Cream Cheese and Parmesan: Add the cubed cream cheese and shredded Parmesan to the slow cooker. Stir gently until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes creamy. Continue cooking on low for an additional 10–15 minutes to blend the flavors.
  5. Cook the Pasta: While the sauce finishes cooking, prepare the pasta separately according to the package directions until al dente. Drain the pasta well.
  6. Combine and Serve: Stir the cooked pasta into the creamy Cajun chicken mixture in the slow cooker until well coated. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for an added kick if desired.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, use full-fat cream cheese and freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
  • You can substitute chicken thighs for breasts if you prefer dark meat; adjust cooking time accordingly.
  • If you like extra heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add more crushed red pepper flakes.
  • Make sure to cook the pasta separately to prevent it from becoming mushy in the slow cooker.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain creaminess.

Nutrition

Keywords: Crock pot chicken, creamy Cajun pasta, slow cooker dinner, easy chicken recipe, one pot pasta, comfort food

Find it online: https://todayquickmeals.com/easy-and-flavorful-dinner-recipe/