1tablespoonof Cajun seasoningadjust to taste if you like it milder or spicier
1teaspoonof garlic powder
1teaspoonof smoked paprika
½teaspoonof black pepper
1red bell peppersliced
1green bell peppersliced
1medium onionsliced
3cupsof chicken broth
2cupsof heavy cream
1poundof penne pastaor any pasta you like
½cupof shredded Parmesan cheese
Optional toppings: chopped parsleyextra Parmesan, or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Start by seasoning your chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Trust me, this step is key for locking in those bold flavors.
Take a moment to give your seasoning a good mix. It’s like giving your chicken a spa day, but with spices. The aroma from the Cajun blend alone will get you excited for what’s to come.
Step 2: Load the Crock Pot
Place the seasoned chicken in the bottom of your crock pot. Add the sliced bell peppers and onion on top. Pour in the chicken broth, cover, and set your slow cooker to low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours.
While everything is cooking, you’ve got time to tackle other things—or just sit back with a cup of coffee. That’s the beauty of slow cooker meals!
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked through, use two forks to shred it right in the pot. It’s super tender, so this part is a breeze.
Shredding the chicken is oddly satisfying. It’s like pulling apart little clouds of flavor. And since it’s already soaked up all those delicious Cajun spices, every bite is packed with goodness.
Step 4: Add the Cream and Pasta
Stir in the heavy cream and uncooked pasta. Cover and let it cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until the pasta is perfectly tender.
Keep an eye on it at this stage. You don’t want to overcook the pasta. Give it a stir every now and then to make sure everything cooks evenly.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan over the top, give it a good stir, and let it melt into the creamy sauce. This step is where the magic happens!
If you’re feeling extra fancy, you can top it off with some fresh parsley or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. Presentation matters, even if it’s just for yourself.