Go Back
One Pot Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta

One Pot Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta

The ultimate comfort food, One Pot Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta is creamy, spicy, and easy to make! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this one-pot dish will satisfy your cravings and is a surefire hit among family and friends.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 650
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons salted butter
  • 1 pound boneless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed
  • 2 teaspoons cajun seasoning
  • 1 yellow onion, sliced
  • 2 poblano peppers, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, chopped
  • 3-4 teaspoons cajun seasoning
  • 1 pound short cut pasta
  • 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • chili flakes
  • 2 cups milk
  • 2 ounces cream cheese
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing
  • 1 cup grated parmesan cheese

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Grater
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Wooden Spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large pot set over medium-high heat, melt the butter and add the chicken along with 2 teaspoons of cajun seasoning. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes or until it is cooked through and lightly browned. The butter will create a beautiful flavor base, and the chicken should be juicy and tender.
  2. Once the chicken is done, scoop it out of the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions, poblano peppers, and garlic. Sauté these ingredients for a few minutes until the veggies become soft and fragrant. This process allows the flavors to develop, making the dish even more delicious.
  3. Next, stir in 3 to 4 teaspoons of cajun seasoning and mix well. The aroma will be irresistible! Now, add the short cut pasta, fresh parsley, and 2 cups of water. Mix everything together and let it cook, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente—about 8 minutes. Keep an eye on the pot, ensuring the pasta doesn’t overcook.
  4. Once the pasta has reached the perfect texture, reduce the heat and stir in the milk, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and parmesan cheese. Mix until everything is creamy and well combined. The sauce should be rich and smoothly coating the pasta.
  5. Finally, slide the cooked chicken back into the pot, gently mixing it with the pasta and sauce until everything is evenly distributed. Allow it to cook for an additional minute or two, just to warm up the chicken again.
  6. Serve your One Pot Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta immediately, garnished with extra parmesan cheese and fresh parsley. Enjoy every creamy, flavorful bite!

Notes

Homemade Cajun Seasoning: Mix 2 1/2 tablespoons smoked paprika, 2 tablespoons garlic powder, 1 tablespoon onion powder, 1 tablespoon dried oregano, 1 tablespoon dried thyme, 1 tablespoon chili powder, 2 teaspoons chipotle chili powder, 1-2 teaspoons cayenne pepper, 1 1/2 tablespoons salt, and 1 tablespoon black pepper. Makes 3/4 cup.