Description
How to make high protein chicken fajita pasta with tender chicken, colorful peppers and creamy sauce that satisfies your comfort food cravings perfectly.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein & Pasta Base
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
- 12 oz whole wheat penne pasta
- 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
Fajita Vegetables
- 1 large red bell pepper, sliced thin
- 1 large yellow bell pepper, sliced thin
- 1 large green bell pepper, sliced thin
- 1 medium yellow onion, sliced thin
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasoning Blend
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Creamy Sauce
- 1 cup low-fat Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup reduced-fat cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Season Chicken: Combine all spices in a bowl, then toss chicken strips with half the seasoning blend. Let marinate for 10 minutes while you prep vegetables for maximum flavor penetration.
- Cook Pasta: Bring salted water to boil and cook penne according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup pasta water before draining – you’ll need it later.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook seasoned chicken strips 5-6 minutes until golden and cooked through, then transfer to plate.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add remaining oil to same skillet and cook peppers, onions, and remaining seasoning for 6-8 minutes until tender-crisp and slightly caramelized around edges.
- Make Sauce: Reduce heat to low, add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Whisk in Greek yogurt, cream cheese, and lime juice until smooth and creamy throughout.
- Combine Everything: Return chicken to skillet, add drained pasta and toss gently. Add pasta water gradually until you reach your desired creamy consistency, then taste and adjust seasoning.
- Finish Serve: Remove from heat, stir in fresh cilantro, and serve immediately while hot. Garnish with extra cilantro, lime wedges, or your favorite fajita toppings if desired.
Notes
- Don’t overcook the chicken or it becomes tough and rubbery instead of tender.
- Reserve pasta water before draining – it’s essential for creating the perfect creamy sauce consistency.
- Keep heat low when adding dairy ingredients to prevent the sauce from breaking or curdling.
- Let cream cheese soften to room temperature for easier mixing and smoother sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning at the end since spice levels can vary between brands.
- This recipe doubles easily for meal prep or feeding a larger crowd.
Allergy Information: Dairy, Gluten
Nutrition
- Calories: 420 calories
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Protein: 28g