Print

Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta Recipe

Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta Recipe
Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 23 reviews

A rich and creamy Cajun-inspired pasta dish featuring tender chicken pieces, sautéed vegetables, and a luscious cheese and ranch dressing sauce, perfectly balanced with spicy Cajun seasoning and melted mozzarella cheese for a comforting, flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Protein

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces

Pasta

  • 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your preferred variety)

Vegetables and Aromatics

  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

Sauce Ingredients

  • 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (such as Rotel)
  • 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup ranch dressing

Seasoning and Cheese

  • 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Cook the pasta: Prepare the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain thoroughly and set aside to prevent excess water diluting the sauce.
  2. Cook the chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chicken pieces and cook until browned and fully cooked through, seasoning with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
  3. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and red bell pepper. Cook for approximately 5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to release the aromas.
  4. Build the sauce: Stir in diced tomatoes with green chilies, softened cream cheese, chicken broth, ranch dressing, and the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning. Simmer gently while stirring occasionally until the cream cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine chicken and pasta: Add the cooked chicken and drained pasta into the sauce. Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated and warmed through.
  6. Add cheese: Incorporate shredded mozzarella cheese into the sauce, stirring gently until fully melted and incorporated, creating a rich and gooey texture.
  7. Serve: Plate the pasta immediately, garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Notes

  • Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for best flavor.
  • Bring cream cheese to room temperature before adding to avoid lumps.
  • Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your preferred spice level.
  • Short, sturdy pasta shapes like penne or rotini hold sauce best.
  • Shred mozzarella from a block for smoother melting.
  • Simmer the sauce fully to ensure a creamy consistency.
  • Drain pasta thoroughly to prevent thinning the sauce.
  • This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
  • Reheat with a splash of chicken broth or milk to loosen the sauce.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cajun chicken pasta, creamy ranch pasta, mozzarella chicken pasta, spicy chicken pasta, one-pot pasta

Find it online: https://cheflenacooks.com/ultimate-cajun-mozzarella-chicken-ranch-pasta-recipe/