Name: Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning; 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp butter; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 ½ cups heavy cream; 1 packet ranch seasoning mix; ¾ cup grated Parmesan cheese; 12 oz penne pasta; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

If comfort food had a spicy, creamy, flavor-packed cousin, it would be Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta. This dish is a delicious fusion of bold Cajun spices and the cool tang of ranch, brought together in a silky, cheesy sauce that clings to every bite of tender chicken and penne pasta. It’s weeknight-dinner-easy but dinner-party-impressive.

Whether you’re feeding a family or meal-prepping for the week, this pasta brings both flavor and satisfaction. The juicy seared chicken is tossed in a creamy ranch Alfredo-style sauce with just the right Cajun kick, making each forkful irresistible. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s a go-to for those craving comfort with a zesty edge.

What Kind of Pasta Works Best with Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta?

Penne pasta is a favorite for this recipe because it captures the creamy sauce inside its tubes, delivering flavor with every bite. However, rotini or rigatoni are also excellent choices if you want to switch things up.

Ingredients for the Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta

Chicken Breast – Boneless and skinless chicken breast, cubed, creates hearty bites and absorbs the seasoning beautifully.

Cajun Seasoning – Brings heat and a smoky complexity that defines the dish.

Olive Oil – Helps sear the chicken and carries the flavor of the spices.

Butter – Adds richness to the sauce.

Garlic – Freshly minced garlic builds the savory base of the cream sauce.

Heavy Cream – For that luscious, velvety sauce texture.

Ranch Seasoning Mix – Infuses the dish with classic ranch flavor.

Parmesan Cheese – Melts into the sauce, adding sharp, nutty depth.

Penne Pasta – Holds the sauce well and provides satisfying texture.

Fresh Parsley – For a pop of color and fresh herbal note at the end.

How To Make the Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Season and Sear the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Toss the cubed chicken breast with Cajun seasoning, then sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Ranch Sauce

In the same skillet, melt butter and add garlic. Sauté until fragrant. Pour in heavy cream and whisk in ranch seasoning. Let it simmer for a couple of minutes.

Step 3: Add the Cheese

Stir in grated Parmesan and keep whisking until the sauce thickens into a creamy consistency.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce simmers, boil penne pasta in salted water until al dente. Drain and reserve a little pasta water.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Add the cooked pasta and seared chicken back to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together, adding pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley.

Serving and Storing Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta

Serve this pasta piping hot, garnished with fresh parsley or even a sprinkle of extra Cajun seasoning for an added kick. It pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave with a splash of cream or milk to bring back its saucy richness.