Indulge in a rich, creamy, and boldly spiced Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Alfredo—a one-pot dinner that delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort. This recipe layers tender chicken, zesty Cajun seasoning, and a velvety Alfredo sauce over perfectly cooked pasta for a comfort food favorite with a Southern twist.
Essential Ingredients for the Best Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Alfredo
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts | 2 large | Trimmed and patted dry |
| Cajun Seasoning | 1.5 tbsp | Use homemade or store-bought |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves | Fresh for deep flavor |
| Chicken Broth | 2 cups | Low-sodium preferred |
| Heavy Cream | 1.5 cups | For richness |
| Cream Cheese | 4 oz | Softened, for silky texture |
| Parmesan Cheese (grated) | 1 cup | Freshly grated |
| Fettuccine Pasta | 12 oz | Uncooked, add later |
| Olive Oil | 1 tbsp | For searing chicken |
| Salt and Pepper | To taste | Adjust as needed |
| Fresh Parsley | For garnish | Optional but recommended |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Chicken
Rub the chicken breasts generously with Cajun seasoning. In a skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and sear the chicken for 2–3 minutes on each side until lightly browned. Transfer to the slow cooker.
Step 2: Add Aromatics and Broth
Add minced garlic over the chicken. Pour in chicken broth and cover. Cook on LOW for 4–5 hours or HIGH for 2.5–3 hours.
Step 3: Shred the Chicken
Remove the chicken and shred it with two forks. Return it to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Make the Creamy Cajun Alfredo Sauce
Add heavy cream, cream cheese, and Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and well combined. Cover and cook for another 20–30 minutes on LOW.
Step 5: Add Pasta
Add uncooked fettuccine directly into the slow cooker. Stir well to coat. Cover and cook on HIGH for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally until pasta is al dente.
Step 6: Serve
Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and additional grated Parmesan before serving.
Homemade Cajun Seasoning Blend (Optional)
| Spice | Amount |
|---|---|
| Paprika | 2 tsp |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp |
| Onion Powder | 1 tsp |
| Dried Oregano | 1 tsp |
| Dried Thyme | 1 tsp |
| Cayenne Pepper | 1/4 tsp (or to taste) |
| Black Pepper | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1 tsp |
Mix and store in an airtight jar.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~670 kcal |
| Protein | 42g |
| Carbs | 38g |
| Fat | 38g |
| Saturated Fat | 18g |
| Sodium | 950mg |
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes:
- Roasted Brussels sprouts
- Garlic bread
- Grilled asparagus
- Beverage Pairings:
- Sparkling lemonade
- Crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc
- Toppings:
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Sliced scallions
- Lemon zest for brightness
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
- Make-Ahead: Prepare and store sauce and chicken separately. Combine with pasta before serving.
- Storage: Keeps in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.
- Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or broth.
- Freezing: Freeze the sauce and chicken (without pasta) for up to 2 months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs provide more moisture and are perfect for slow cooking.
Can I use pre-cooked pasta?
While not recommended, pre-cooked pasta can be stirred in at the final step, but expect a softer texture.
How can I make this spicier?
Increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning or add sliced jalapeños before serving.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes. Ensure your slow cooker can accommodate the volume and adjust cooking times slightly if needed.
Conclusion
This Slow Cooker Cajun Chicken Alfredo combines the bold heat of Cajun spices with creamy Alfredo comfort. Made with minimal prep and packed with rich flavor, this one-pot meal is perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or meal prep. The pasta cooks right in the sauce, absorbing every bit of spice and creaminess. From the tender seared chicken to the velvety cheese blend, every bite offers Southern comfort with a gourmet twist. Serve it with garlic bread or roasted vegetables and elevate your dinner game effortlessly.