Cajun Chicken and Vegetable Pasta 5 ★

How to Make Cajun Chicken and Vegetable Pasta

1. Prep and season the chicken

   Pat the chicken strips dry with paper towels so the seasoning sticks well and browning improves.

   In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

2. Cook the pasta

   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the whole wheat penne until al dente.

   Reserve at least half a cup of the hot pasta water, then drain the pasta and set it aside.
3. Sear the chicken

   Heat a large deep skillet over medium high and add a drizzle of olive oil if needed.

   Spread the seasoned chicken in a single layer and cook, stirring once or twice, until browned and cooked through.

   Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and keep it warm while you cook the vegetables.

4. Saute the vegetables

   In the same skillet, add olive oil, then the sliced bell peppers and red onion, and cook over medium heat.

   Stir occasionally until the peppers soften slightly and the onions turn translucent with a few golden edges.

   Add the minced garlic, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper, and cook for about one minute until fragrant.

5. Mix the yogurt sauce

   In a bowl, whisk the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt.

   Whisk in the warm pasta water a little at a time until the sauce turns smooth and pourable, not runny.
6. Combine and serve

   Add the cooked pasta and chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and toss everything gently over low heat.

   Pour the yogurt sauce over the mixture, toss again to coat, and taste for salt, pepper, or extra Cajun seasoning.

   Serve hot, topped with extra yogurt sauce or a squeeze of lemon if you like a brighter flavor.