One Pot Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta

One Pot Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta is a bold, creamy, and comforting dinner that’s full of flavor and incredibly easy to make. Tender chicken is seasoned with smoky Cajun spices, seared to perfection, then simmered in a rich ranch-infused cream sauce with pasta—all in one pot for minimal cleanup and maximum satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is spicy, creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavor thanks to the combination of Cajun seasoning and ranch. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner solution that delivers restaurant-quality results with everyday ingredients. Since it’s made in one pot, cleanup is a breeze—and the flavors come together beautifully as everything cooks in the same pan.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken and seasoning:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter for cooking

For the pasta and sauce:

• Pasta (penne, rotini, or shells work best)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Ranch seasoning (packet or homemade)
• Garlic, minced
• Shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese
• Optional: diced tomatoes, spinach, or bell peppers

For garnish:

• Chopped parsley or green onions
• Extra grated cheese
• Cracked black pepper

directions

1. Season and sear the chicken:
   Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces and season generously with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
   Heat olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
2. Build the sauce:
   In the same pot, sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in chicken broth, heavy cream, and ranch seasoning. Stir to combine.
3. Add pasta:
   Stir in the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender and the sauce is slightly thickened (about 12–15 minutes).
4. Finish the dish:
   Stir in cheese and return the cooked chicken to the pot. Mix until everything is combined and creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.
5. Serve:
   Garnish with chopped parsley, more cheese, or green onions if desired. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: approx. 35 minutes

Variations

• Use shrimp instead of chicken for a Cajun seafood twist.
• Make it spicier with extra Cajun seasoning or red pepper flakes.
• Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Swap cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella.
• Use gluten-free pasta if needed.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Not recommended for freezing due to the creamy base.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, stir in shredded rotisserie chicken toward the end of cooking for a shortcut version.

What’s the best pasta shape to use?

Short shapes like penne, rotini, or shells hold the sauce well and cook evenly in one pot.

Is Cajun seasoning very spicy?

It can be mildly spicy depending on the brand. Adjust to taste or make your own for more control.

Can I make this without heavy cream?

Yes, use half-and-half, evaporated milk, or a mix of milk and cream cheese.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Simmer gently and avoid boiling once dairy is added. Stir often and finish with cheese off the heat.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, omit the chicken and use vegetable broth. Add roasted vegetables or plant-based protein.

What’s a good homemade ranch seasoning?

A mix of dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper works well.

Can I cook this ahead of time?

It’s best fresh, but you can prep components in advance. Reheat with added liquid to refresh the sauce.

How can I thicken the sauce?

Let it simmer uncovered, or stir in a little extra cheese or a slurry of cornstarch and broth.

What pairs well with this pasta?

Serve with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

One Pot Cajun Ranch Chicken Pasta is your answer to a flavorful, creamy, and fuss-free dinner that’s guaranteed to please. With its bold Cajun heat, tangy ranch undertone, and comforting cheesy sauce, it’s a weeknight win that tastes like it came from a restaurant. Easy to customize and quick to clean up, this one-pot wonder will become a go-to favorite in no time.

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