Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups heavy cream
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, drained)
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 oz penne pasta
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
-
Season the Chicken:
- In a large bowl, toss the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
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Assemble in Crock Pot:
- Transfer the seasoned chicken to the slow cooker.
- Add heavy cream, chicken broth, Parmesan cheese, diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and garlic.
- Stir well to combine.
-
Slow Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or high for 2–3 hours, until the chicken is tender.
-
Add Pasta:
- 15 minutes before cooking time is up, add the penne pasta to the slow cooker.
- Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the sauce.
-
Continue Cooking:
- Cover and cook on high for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is al dente.
-
Season and Serve:
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Make it Spicier: Add extra Cajun seasoning, red pepper flakes, or hot sauce.
- Lighten it Up: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or Greek yogurt.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with mushrooms, zucchini, or tofu.
- Use Different Pasta: Try rotini, fusilli, or gluten-free pasta.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4–5 hours on low or 2–3 hours on high, plus 15–20 minutes for pasta
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Cajun-inspired