One Pot Creamy Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta
Make dinner simple and delicious with Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta, perfect for busy weeknights.
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 742kcal
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 2 medium chicken breasts)
- 3 ½ teaspoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 3 cups (24 ounces / 720 g) chicken broth
- 1 cup (238 g) heavy cream, room temperature
- 16 ounces penne pasta, uncooked
- ½ cup (120 g) ranch dressing
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup (113 g) mozzarella cheese, shredded
- ½ cup (50 g) parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, toss the chicken with 3 teaspoons Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is browned and fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Transfer the chicken to a plate and cover loosely with aluminum foil to keep warm.
- In the same skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to stir and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
- Stir in the uncooked penne pasta. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the pasta is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Stir in the ranch dressing, remaining ½ teaspoon of Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for another minute to blend the flavors.
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Add the mozzarella and parmesan cheeses and stir until melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.
Nutrition
Serving: 1portion | Calories: 742kcal