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 creamy Cajun dirty snow chicken pasta quickly became a favorite for weeknight dinners because it tastes indulgent without being heavy. I love how the Greek yogurt creates a creamy sauce that feels guilt-free yet so flavorful.
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 recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table and sparks great conversation about new ways to enjoy Cajun flavors.
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) Gluten (pasta). May contain Milk derivatives in cheese check labels for gluten in pasta and seasoning blends.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 410 Total Fat 8 g Carbohydrates 49 g Protein 36 g.
Save to Pinterest This creamy Cajun pasta is perfect for weeknights when you want something flavorful but still relatively light and quick to prepare.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use gluten-free pasta?
Yes, gluten-free pasta can substitute whole-wheat pasta to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing texture.
- → What adds creaminess without heaviness?
Greek yogurt combined with light cream cheese creates a creamy sauce that is rich yet light and guilt-free.
- → How can I adjust the spice level?
Modify the amount of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper to control the heat to your preference.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, cooking chicken and veggies in advance and mixing with freshly cooked pasta and sauce before serving works well.
- → What vegetables are used for flavor and texture?
Bell peppers, red onion, garlic, and baby spinach add color, crunch, and freshness balancing the creamy sauce.
- → Can I substitute sour cream for Greek yogurt?
Sour cream is a suitable substitute if preferred, though it slightly changes the tanginess and texture of the sauce.