Dinner

Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe

ByJulian Dempsey December 12, 2025December 12, 2025

Introduction

This Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta is a comforting, flavorful dish perfect for busy weeknights. Slow-cooked chicken is combined with a rich, creamy sauce and tender pasta for an easy meal the whole family will love.

The dish is a creamy pasta served in a white bowl. The base layer consists of penne pasta that is golden yellow and coated with a glossy, orange-colored creamy sauce. On top of the pasta are generous pieces of chicken, coated with the same creamy sauce but with a slightly browned, seared texture. Scattered over the chicken and pasta are small bits of crispy, reddish-brown bacon and finely chopped green herbs, adding a fresh contrast to the dish. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1.5 pounds chicken breasts
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, chopped
8 ounces cream cheese, cut into cubes
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup chicken broth
12 ounces penne pasta
0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions

Step 1: Season chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning and let them rest for 5–10 minutes.
Step 2: Place the chicken in the crock pot and top with garlic, onions, and chunks of cream cheese.
Step 3: Pour the chicken broth around the sides of the pot, avoiding pouring it directly over the cheese.
Step 4: Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or on high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
Step 5: Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, then return it to the crock pot and mix well.
Step 6: While the chicken is cooking, boil penne pasta according to package instructions and drain.
Step 7: Add heavy cream and Parmesan cheese to the crock pot 30 minutes before serving, stirring to combine.
Step 8: Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and chicken in the crock pot. Stir until fully coated.
Step 9: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the Cajun seasoning.
Use rotisserie chicken if you want to shorten cooking time and skip slow cooking.
Swap penne for fettuccine or bowtie pasta for a different texture.

Storage

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to keep it creamy.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy penne pasta coated in a smooth orange sauce, layered with slices of tender, cooked chicken on top. Small pieces of crispy bacon add a dark reddish-brown texture scattered unevenly across the dish. Fresh green parsley leaves are sprinkled generously on top, adding a pop of bright color. The creamy sauce clings to the penne, creating a glossy finish, while the chicken pieces show a slight dusting of reddish seasoning across their surface. The bowl sits on a surface with a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken breasts for this recipe?

It’s best to use thawed chicken breasts for even cooking. If using frozen, increase cooking time and ensure the chicken reaches a safe internal temperature.

Can I prepare this dish without a crock pot?

Yes, you can cook the chicken and sauce in a large skillet over low heat, then add the pasta. However, slow cooking develops deeper flavors and tender texture.