Name: Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491951H4M9S
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: Cajun
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds chicken breasts, cubed; 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, chopped; 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 cup chicken broth; 1 cup heavy cream; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 12 ounces penne pasta; 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Creamy, spicy, and irresistibly comforting, this Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta is the ultimate cozy dinner with a kick. Packed with juicy chicken, al dente penne, and a creamy Cajun-spiced sauce, it’s a one-pot meal that practically cooks itself. Ideal for busy weeknights or feeding a hungry crowd, this pasta combines Southern flavor with weeknight convenience.

What makes this dish a true winner is the balance of heat and richness. The Cajun seasoning brings a bold, zesty flavor that pairs perfectly with the creamy sauce and tender chunks of chicken. Letting everything simmer together in the slow cooker melds the flavors beautifully, creating a comforting meal you’ll come back to over and over again.

What Kind of Cajun Seasoning Should I Use?

You can use your favorite store-bought Cajun seasoning or whip up a homemade blend. If you prefer more control over the heat, make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Keep in mind that spice levels vary by brand—taste and adjust before adding too much!

Ingredients for the Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Chicken breasts – Boneless, skinless chicken breasts make this dish protein-packed and hearty. They soak up all the Cajun flavor as they cook slowly.

Cajun seasoning – The soul of the recipe. Adds depth, smokiness, and that signature Southern heat.

Garlic – Adds a savory base note that enhances every other ingredient.

Onion – A sweet, aromatic foundation that balances the spice.

Sun-dried tomatoes – Brings a tangy, slightly sweet richness that cuts through the creamy sauce.

Chicken broth – Helps cook the chicken and infuse flavor into every bite.

Heavy cream – Adds that indulgent creaminess that binds the sauce together.

Cream cheese – Thickens the sauce while adding tangy smoothness.

Parmesan cheese – For a salty, nutty finish that melts into the sauce.

Penne pasta – Its tube shape is perfect for catching all that luscious sauce.

Parsley – Optional, but adds a fresh pop of color and brightness at the end.

How To Make the Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken

Cube the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and toss them with Cajun seasoning until well-coated.

Step 2: Layer Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Add seasoned chicken, chopped onions, minced garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes to the slow cooker. Pour in chicken broth to help everything cook evenly and stay juicy.

Step 3: Let It Slow Cook

Set the slow cooker to low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours. This allows the chicken to cook through and absorb all the savory, spicy flavor.

Step 4: Add the Creamy Goodness

About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cream cheese and heavy cream. Let them melt into the broth, forming a silky, rich sauce.

Step 5: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce finishes in the crock pot, cook your penne pasta separately until al dente. Drain and set aside.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

Once the sauce is creamy and the chicken is fork-tender, add the cooked pasta and grated Parmesan. Toss everything together, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and serve hot!

Serving and Storing This Cajun Pasta

This dish is best served hot straight from the slow cooker. The creamy sauce thickens beautifully as it rests, coating each bite of pasta and chicken.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. This pasta doesn’t freeze well due to the dairy, so enjoy it fresh or within a few days.

Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a moderate kick from the Cajun seasoning, but you can control the heat by adjusting the amount or using a mild blend.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, rotini, rigatoni, or bowties also work well with the sauce. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the creaminess.

Can I make it dairy-free?

You can swap the cream and cheese with dairy-free alternatives, but the texture and taste will change slightly.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely! Bell peppers or spinach would be great stirred in during the last hour of cooking.

Can I make this on the stovetop instead?

Yes! Cook the chicken and sauce in a skillet, then combine with cooked pasta. Simmer until creamy and heated through.

What’s the best way to reheat it?

Use the stovetop over low heat with a bit of extra cream or broth to bring the sauce back to life.

Want More Pasta Ideas with a Kick?

If you’re all about creamy pastas with bold flavor, check out these other irresistible recipes:

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can find it later when cravings hit!

And if you try it, let me know how yours turned out. Did you go extra spicy? Add bell peppers? Swap the pasta?

I love seeing your creations and ideas. Drop a comment or tag me so we can keep the Cajun pasta love going strong.

Hungry for more cozy dinner recipes? Follow me on Pinterest at Life with Jam for daily comfort food ideas.