Description
Craving something bold, creamy, and full of flavor? This Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta brings the heat and comfort in one easy dinner idea! Perfect for a weeknight meal or cozy weekend indulgence, this dish features juicy seared chicken coated in zesty Cajun seasoning, bathed in a silky ranch-Parmesan cream sauce, and tossed with perfectly al dente penne. It’s quick to make, satisfying to eat, and an absolute crowd-pleaser—ideal for anyone looking for easy recipes, creamy pasta dishes, or flavorful food ideas.
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
Instructions
1. Toss the cubed chicken with Cajun seasoning.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and sear the chicken until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
4. Pour in heavy cream, add ranch seasoning, and let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and cook until sauce thickens.
6. Meanwhile, boil pasta until al dente, drain, and reserve a bit of pasta water.
7. Return chicken and pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together, loosening the sauce with pasta water if needed.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve hot.
Notes
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best melting and flavor.
Add a splash of milk or cream when reheating to revive the sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 645
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 890mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 155mg