Oh my goodness, do I have a treat for you today! If you love creamy, comforting dishes that are so easy to whip up, you’re going to adore this Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta. I remember the first time I made this dish; it was a chilly evening, and I wanted something hearty yet simple. This recipe checked all the boxes and has been a family favorite ever since. There’s just something magical about how all those flavors come together while you go about your day – it’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
What really tickles my fancy about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily tweak it – throw in some veggies, or use whatever pasta you have on hand. It’s a one-pot wonder taking hardly any effort, and you get to enjoy the delectable aroma wafting through your home while it cooks. Let me tell you, your taste buds are in for a treat!
What’s in Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: This is the star of our dish, providing lean protein that keeps you full and satisfied. I like to dice them up for even cooking and easier serving.
Penne pasta: These little tubes hold on to the creamy sauce beautifully. You could swap it out for your favorite pasta type, but trust me, penne is the way to go here.
Cream of chicken soup: This creamy base ties everything together. If you’re in the mood for something healthier, you can opt for a low-fat version.
Diced tomatoes with green chilies: They pack a flavorful punch and a little kick! I always choose the ones without added sugars or preservatives.
Chicken broth: This adds depth to the flavor. Homemade broth is great, but I usually reach for one that’s low-sodium for better control over the saltiness.
Cajun seasoning: Ah, the magic spice blend! It gives this dish its signature kick. I pair it with my favorite Cajun brand for that authentic flavor.
Garlic powder and onion powder: A sprinkle of these gives it that aromatic goodness! Fresh garlic and onions work just as well if you have them on hand.
Salt and black pepper: Basic seasonings to enhance the flavors, of course! I always taste as I go.
Heavy cream: This is what makes the dish ultra-creamy. You can use half-and-half for a lighter option, but I can’t resist the richness of heavy cream!
Shredded cheddar cheese: Melty, gooey, and oh-so-delicious. I often go for sharp cheddar – that extra tanginess is heavenly.
Chopped green onions: These are for garnishing (and, let’s face it, they bring a pop of color!). They add a fresh crunch that brightens the dish.
Is Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta Good for You?
Now let’s chat about health benefits! This dish packs a punch of protein with the **chicken breasts** and offers some fiber from the **penne pasta**. Not to mention, the **diced tomatoes** provide antioxidants and vitamins. However, because of the **heavy cream** and **cream of chicken soup**, the dish is on the richer side, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation or as part of a well-balanced meal.
Do keep in mind if you’re watching your sodium intake, the **chicken broth** and **cream of chicken soup** can be high in salt, so opting for low-sodium versions can really help balance things out. Overall, I’d say it’s a delicious indulgence that can fit into a healthy eating plan – just don’t eat the entire pot in one sitting (trust me, I’ve been there and regretted it)!
Ingredients
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
– 8 ounces penne pasta
– 1 can (10.5 ounces) cream of chicken soup
– 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup green onions, chopped (for garnish)
*Serves 4-6 people*
How to Make Crock Pot Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta?
1. In a large crockpot, add the diced chicken breasts, cream of chicken soup, diced tomatoes (and their juice), chicken broth, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until fully combined.
2. Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through. Your house will smell fantastic by now!
3. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, add the dry penne pasta to the crockpot. Stir to combine. If it looks like it needs more liquid, feel free to add a bit more broth or water.
4. Once the pasta is tender, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix everything together until the cheese is melted and the sauce has reached that glorious creamy consistency.
5. Serve warm, garnished with chopped green onions. Enjoy the deliciousness of your creamy Cajun chicken pasta!
Serving Suggestions for Ultimate Comfort
This dish is already a winner in my book, but here are a few extras to amp it up! Serve it alongside a crisp green salad or some garlic bread for a full meal experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, add some sautéed bell peppers or even a handful of spinach right before serving for a pop of color and nutrients.
And please, don’t forget to take a picture of your creation! I love hearing how it turned out for friends and family. So, roll up those sleeves and dive in – I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make some yummy memories in your kitchen!
