Oh my goodness, you need to try this ultimate Cajun mozzarella chicken ranch pasta! It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with bold flavor. Plus, it’s all made in one pan for easy cleanup!
I whipped this up last night, and wow—it was a total hit. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a spicy kick, the ranch adds a creamy tang, and the mozzarella? Oh my gosh, it makes everything so melty and delicious. It’s seriously comfort food at its best.
If you’re craving pasta with a ton of flavor and cheesy goodness, this is your dish. It’s perfect for busy nights when you want something fast but fancy. Trust me, everyone will be asking for seconds!
So grab your chicken, pasta, Cajun spices, and mozzarella. I’ll show you how to make this ultimate Cajun mozzarella chicken ranch pasta. It’s easy, cheesy, and packed with flavor!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Fusion: The combination of Cajun spices and ranch dressing offers a unique and delicious taste experience.
- Creamy and Cheesy: Mozzarella cheese adds a delightful creaminess that complements the spicy elements.
- Hearty Meal: Packed with protein and carbs, it’s a filling dish suitable for lunch or dinner.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable to include your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level.
What You Need to Know Before You Start
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Difficulty: Easy
Required Kitchen Tools
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Large pot for boiling pasta
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or your preferred variety)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup ranch dressing
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and a light sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Toss well to coat every piece evenly. This seasoning step ensures the chicken is flavorful before it even hits the pan.
2. Sear the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the seasoned chicken in a single layer. Cook undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on one side to develop a nice golden crust. Then, flip the pieces and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through. Transfer the chicken to a plate and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if needed. Toss in the chopped onion and red bell pepper. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Create the Creamy Cajun Sauce
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in the cream cheese and ranch dressing, letting the mixture melt into a smooth, creamy sauce. Sprinkle in the remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, adjusting the amount to your taste preference for spice.
5. Cook the Pasta
While the sauce is coming together, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook until just al dente, according to the package instructions. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
6. Combine Everything
Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss everything together until the pasta is coated. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen it. Gently fold in the cooked chicken and sprinkle with the shredded mozzarella cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil, allowing the cheese to melt from the residual heat.
7. Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness. Serve immediately while the cheese is melty and the pasta is hot.
Serving and Decoration
- Serve with Garlic Bread: The creamy, spicy pasta pairs beautifully with a side of toasted garlic bread.
- Salad on the Side: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the dish.
- Family Style: Serve it straight from the skillet for a casual family dinner.
Storing and Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to refresh the sauce.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Cut Chicken Evenly: For consistent cooking, make sure the chicken pieces are uniform in size.
- Watch the Heat: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing; it can burn quickly and turn bitter.
- Adjust the Spice: Cajun seasoning can vary in heat, so taste the sauce as you go and adjust the spice level accordingly.
- Cheese Matters: Use freshly shredded mozzarella for the best melt and flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~610 kcal |
| Protein | ~35g |
| Carbohydrates | ~55g |
| Total Fat | ~30g |
| Saturated Fat | ~12g |
| Cholesterol | ~100mg |
| Sodium | ~900mg |
| Fiber | ~3g |
| Sugars | ~5g |
| Calcium | ~200mg |
| Iron | ~3mg |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and will vary based on exact ingredients and serving sizes.
Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta
Course: Uncategorized6
servings20
minutes30
minutesIngredients
1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
1 lb pasta (penne, rotini, or preferred variety)
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 medium onion, chopped
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies
1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1 cup chicken broth
½ cup ranch dressing
2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions
- Marinate Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook Pasta: Boil pasta in salted water until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and red bell pepper; sauté until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Cook Chicken: Push vegetables to the side of the skillet and add marinated chicken. Cook until browned and cooked through. Mix with vegetables.
- Prepare Sauce: Add diced tomatoes and green chilies to the skillet. Stir in cream cheese until melted and smooth. Pour in chicken broth and ranch dressing; stir to combine. Add remaining 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5 minutes.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add cooked pasta to the skillet; toss to coat. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved
- Serve: Garnish with parsley and serve immediately.
FAQs about Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Prepare the pasta and sauce separately, then combine and reheat when ready to serve.
Q: What can I substitute for Cajun seasoning?
A: You can use Creole seasoning or a homemade blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and thyme.
Q: Can I use a different cheese?
A: Absolutely! Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend of cheeses work well.
Q: Is this dish freezer-friendly?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it. Thaw and reheat gently with a splash of broth or milk.
Conclusion
This Ultimate Cajun Mozzarella Chicken Ranch Pasta brings together everything you love about comfort food. Tender, juicy chicken combined with bold Cajun spices, creamy ranch dressing, and gooey mozzarella makes for a pasta dish that’s both hearty and satisfying. The touch of diced tomatoes and green chilies adds depth and subtle heat, perfectly balancing the creamy sauce.
As a chef and food blogger, I can tell you that this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s adaptable, easy to prepare, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. You can even tweak the ingredients to suit your pantry or family preferences. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or meal prepping for the week, it’s a recipe worth repeating.
