Description
A creamy and flavorful one-pot pasta featuring tender Cajun-seasoned chicken, ranch dressing, and parmesan cheese. This comforting dish comes together quickly with bold spices and a rich, savory sauce.
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, to taste
- 2 cups milk
- 2 ounces cream cheese
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, melt the butter and cook the chicken with 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning for about 5 minutes, until fully cooked. Remove the chicken and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, poblano peppers, garlic, and remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the pasta, parsley, and 2 cups of water. Cook, stirring often, until the pasta is al dente, about 8 minutes.
- Stir in the milk, cream cheese, ranch dressing, and parmesan cheese. Mix until the sauce is creamy and well combined.
- Return the chicken to the pot and gently stir to combine. Serve immediately, topped with extra parmesan, parsley, and chili flakes if desired.
Notes
- Adjust Cajun seasoning to control spice level.
- Substitute poblano peppers with bell peppers for a milder flavor.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Add a splash of milk when reheating to restore creaminess.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 720 kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 980 mg
- Fat: 32 g
- Saturated Fat: 16 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Protein: 38 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg