Save to Pinterest A lighter twist on the classic Cajun chicken pasta, featuring tender chicken, whole-wheat pasta, and a creamy yet guilt-free sauce enriched with Greek yogurt and a burst of colorful vegetables.
This recipe quickly became a favorite for weeknight dinners thanks to its ease and flavorful sauce.
Ingredients
- Proteins: 2 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 400 g) cut into bite-sized strips
- Pasta: 250 g (9 oz) whole-wheat penne or rigatoni
- Vegetables: 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced, 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced, 1 small red onion thinly sliced, 2 cloves garlic minced, 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach
- Sauce & Dairy: 180 ml (¾ cup) low-sodium chicken broth, 120 g (½ cup) plain 0% Greek yogurt, 60 ml (¼ cup) light cream cheese softened, 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
- Spices & Seasonings: 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade), ½ tsp smoked paprika, ½ tsp dried thyme, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp black pepper, Pinch of cayenne pepper (optional for extra heat)
- Oils: 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Cook the pasta according to package instructions. Reserve 120 ml (½ cup) of pasta water then drain and set aside.
- Step 2:
- While the pasta cooks toss the chicken strips with ½ tablespoon Cajun seasoning salt and pepper.
- Step 3:
- Heat olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 4 5 minutes until browned and cooked through. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover lightly.
- Step 4:
- In the same skillet add bell peppers and onion. Sauté for 4 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and sauté another 30 seconds.
- Step 5:
- Stir in remaining Cajun seasoning smoked paprika thyme and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Step 6:
- Pour in chicken broth scraping up any browned bits. Reduce heat to medium-low.
- Step 7:
- Stir in cream cheese until smooth then add Greek yogurt and Parmesan. Mix until a creamy sauce forms. If too thick add reserved pasta water a little at a time.
- Step 8:
- Add spinach and cooked chicken to the skillet. Cook until spinach wilts about 1 2 minutes.
- Step 9:
- Toss in cooked pasta ensuring everything is well coated. Warm through for 1 2 minutes.
- Step 10:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as desired. Serve immediately garnished with extra Parmesan or chopped parsley if desired.
Save to Pinterest This dish is always a hit at family gatherings creating memorable meals full of flavor.
Required Tools
Large pot, large nonstick skillet, sharp knife and cutting board, wooden spoon or spatula, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains dairy (Greek yogurt cream cheese Parmesan) and gluten (pasta). Check ingredient labels carefully for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: 410 calories, 8 g total fat, 49 g carbohydrates, 36 g protein.
Save to Pinterest This Creamy Cajun Dirty Snow Chicken Pasta offers comfort with a nutritious twist perfect for any day of the week.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can this dish be made gluten-free?
Yes, by substituting the whole-wheat pasta with gluten-free pasta varieties, the dish can easily accommodate gluten-free diets.
- → What gives the sauce its creamy texture?
The creamy texture comes from a blend of plain Greek yogurt, cream cheese, and grated Parmesan, which combine to create a smooth and rich sauce.
- → How spicy is the dish?
The spice level comes from Cajun seasoning and optional cayenne pepper; it can be adjusted by varying these amounts to suit your heat preference.
- → Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?
Yes, similar proteins like turkey breast or firm tofu can be used as alternatives, keeping cooking times in mind.
- → What vegetables are included and can they be substituted?
Red and green bell peppers, red onion, garlic, and baby spinach are used; you can substitute with other colorful vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms depending on preference.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish in advance?
The components can be partially prepared ahead, such as cooking chicken and chopping vegetables, but it’s best assembled fresh for optimal flavor and texture.