Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Alfredo
A creamy, spicy, and satisfying dinner that combines Cajun seasoning with Alfredo sauce, chicken, and sausage, all cooked in a slow cooker.
Servings: 6 servings
Equipment
- Slow Cooker
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breasts
- 1 pound smoked sausage, sliced into 1 inch pieces
- 3 cups heavy cream
- 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons coarse Cajun seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic, smashed
- 1 pound uncooked penne pasta
- 1/2 cup hot water
- 8 oz freshly shredded parmesan cheese
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the smoked sausage into 1-inch rounds and smashing the garlic cloves. Trim any excess fat from your chicken breasts if needed.
- Layer in the Slow Cooker: Drizzle the olive oil in the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the chicken breasts inside, then cover with sausage slices.
- Add Seasonings & Liquids: Sprinkle on your Cajun seasoning (adjust for desired spice), add a dusting of garlic powder, and season lightly with salt and black pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Dot the butter evenly over the mixture, and tuck in the smashed garlic cloves for extra flavor.
- Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 4-5 hours, or until the chicken is fully cooked and tender. Avoid lifting the lid too much during this time—let those flavors meld!
- Shred the Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken breasts, shred with two forks, and return to the slow cooker, stirring well to combine.
- Add Pasta: Stir in the uncooked penne pasta and hot water. Replace the lid and continue cooking on high for about 20-30 minutes, or until the pasta is al dente, stirring once or twice if possible to prevent sticking.
- Finish with Cheese: Just before serving, add the shredded parmesan cheese and stir until melted and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls, top with extra parmesan, and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or green onions if you’d like.
Notes
Pair with a fresh salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to your heat preference.