Creamy Cajun White Cheddar Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
Introduction
This Creamy Cajun White Cheddar Ranch Chicken Pasta is a comforting dish packed with bold flavors and a rich, cheesy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it combines tender chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, and a creamy ranch-infused sauce that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken, sprinkle with garlic powder, salt, and pepper, and cook for 2-3 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Step 2: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the Cajun seasoning. Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally until the pasta is tender.
- Step 3: Stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese and ranch dressing until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
- Step 4: Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your creamy and flavorful pasta!
Tips & Variations
- Use smoked chicken or add a splash of hot sauce for an extra smoky, spicy kick.
- For a lighter option, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
- Add sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms for additional vegetables and texture.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce the Cajun seasoning to 1/4 cup.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream when reheating to loosen the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure it is fully thawed and cooked before adding it to the dish. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a quick and convenient option.
What pasta works best for this recipe?
Rotini or penne work well because they hold the creamy sauce nicely, but you can use any short pasta you prefer.
PrintCreamy Cajun White Cheddar Ranch Chicken Pasta Recipe
A rich and flavorful Creamy Cajun White Cheddar Ranch Chicken Pasta combining tender chicken, spicy Cajun seasoning, creamy ranch dressing, and sharp white cheddar cheese tossed with perfectly cooked rotini pasta in a luscious sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Protein and Dairy
- 1 lb cooked chicken, shredded or diced
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
Pasta and Liquids
- 12 oz rotini or penne pasta
- 2 cups chicken broth
Seasonings and Oils
- 1/2 cup Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cooked chicken, then season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the flavors to blend.
- Add Broth, Cream, and Pasta: Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, then stir in the Cajun seasoning until combined. Add the uncooked pasta and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is fully cooked and tender.
- Incorporate Cheese and Ranch Dressing: Once the pasta is cooked, stir in the shredded white cheddar cheese and ranch dressing. Mix well until the sauce becomes creamy, smooth, and evenly coats the pasta and chicken.
- Serve: Transfer to serving plates or bowls, garnish with chopped parsley if desired, and serve warm. Enjoy your creamy, spicy, and comforting Cajun chicken pasta!
Notes
- Use cooked chicken to save time; rotisserie chicken works well.
- You can adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to control the spice level.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for heavy cream.
- Adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach can add color and nutrition.
- To make it gluten free, use gluten-free pasta.
Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy pasta, white cheddar pasta, ranch dressing pasta, one pot pasta, spicy chicken pasta
