Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Dairy free and gluten free, this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful twist on a comfort food classic! Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe brings wholesome ingredients and zesty Cajun flavors together. Enjoy a creamy dish that satisfies your cravings without any dairy, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful and Zesty: The combination of spices creates a bold taste that elevates the dish.
• Creamy Texture: Cashew cream gives you the richness you crave while staying dairy free!
• Quick to Prepare: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this meal in no time.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use chicken, or substitute with tofu or veggies for a vegan option.
• Wholesome Meal: Packed with nutrients and flavor, it’s perfect for health-conscious eaters.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, make sure you have all the necessary tools ready to create this delicious Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta. Preparation will ensure a smooth cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Blender
• Heat proof bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Ensures your cashew cream is smooth and creamy, crucial for achieving the perfect texture.
• Skillet: Provides an even heat source to sauté chicken and vegetables effectively.

Ingredients

For the Pasta

• 12 ounces gluten free pasta

For the Sauce

• 3/4 cup raw cashews
• 1 1/2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt (plus more to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)

For the Chicken and Vegetables

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1/2 large red pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 large yellow or orange pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, chopped

For Seasoning

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
• Pinch or two of cayenne (optional)
  OR
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning instead of individual spices

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Start by covering raw cashews in just boiled water in a heatproof bowl. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes up to an hour. If you’re short on time, simmer them on the stovetop for about 10 minutes until they are pale and plump.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Boil lightly salted water in a large pot. Add gluten-free pasta and cook according to package instructions. Reserve about 3/4 cup of cooking water before draining and setting aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Spice Mix

In a small bowl, combine all dried spices: onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and cayenne (if using) until well mixed.

Step 4: Cook Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Once hot, add chicken pieces and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the spice mix. Cook until fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside on a plate.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet. Sauté diced onion, bell peppers, and garlic for about 3-4 minutes until tender. If needed, add water to deglaze any dark bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Step 6: Add Tomato Paste

Stir in tomato paste along with remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for another minute until aromatic.

Step 7: Make Cashew Cream Sauce

Drain soaked cashews and transfer them to the blender. Add broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high speed for about one minute until smooth.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and cashew cream sauce. Stir well to combine everything together while scraping up brown bits from the pan. Allow it to simmer briefly until everything is coated nicely with sauce.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

As it simmers, use reserved pasta water bit by bit to adjust sauce consistency as desired. The more liquid added will lead to a softer sauce.

Step 10: Season & Serve

Taste your dish and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving!

How to Serve Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Serving Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing the flavors and presentation of this delightful dish. Here are some creative ways to serve it that will impress your family and friends.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Cilantro: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and freshness.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the creamy pasta beautifully.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled Shrimp: Top your pasta with grilled shrimp for an extra protein kick and a seafood twist.

Serve in Individual Bowls

• Personal Portions: For a more elegant presentation, serve the pasta in individual bowls, garnished with herbs and red pepper flakes.

Offer Extra Spices

• Cajun Spice Blend: Place a small dish of Cajun seasoning on the table for those who enjoy an extra kick of spice.

How to Perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Creating the perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta involves attention to detail and a few simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your dish turns out amazing every time.

• Bold Flavors: Don’t be shy with spices! Adjust the amount of cayenne or Cajun seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
• Creamy Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach the desired creaminess.
• Quality Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and high-quality cashews for the best flavor and texture in your sauce.
• Cook Pasta Al Dente: Aim for al dente pasta; it will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce, preventing mushiness.

Best Side Dishes for Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Completing your meal with side dishes can elevate your dining experience. Here are some excellent side options that pair well with Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy bread brushed with garlic butter makes a perfect accompaniment for soaking up creamy sauces.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies roasted until caramelized adds color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad provides a crunchy contrast to the creamy pasta.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn adds sweetness and pairs nicely with spicy flavors.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a nutritious side that balances out the richness of the pasta.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and zest while complementing the dish’s flavors.
7. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf seasoned lightly can absorb any excess sauce while adding heartiness to the meal.
8. Baked Sweet Potatoes: These naturally sweet potatoes bring warmth and balance, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free, there are some common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are a few mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the cashew soaking: Not soaking the cashews can lead to a grainy sauce. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes to achieve a smooth creaminess.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Make sure to cook until just done and remove it from the heat promptly.
• Ignoring pasta water: Failing to reserve pasta water can result in a sauce that’s too thick. Always save some water to adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can dull the flavors of your dish. Taste as you go and adjust with salt or spices for maximum flavor.
• Using low-quality spices: Old or low-quality spices won’t provide robust flavor. Ensure your spices are fresh and store them properly for optimal taste.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Use a freezer-safe container for storage.
• It will last up to 2 months in the freezer, but flavor may diminish over time.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place pasta in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water and stir until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free?

This recipe is dairy free because it uses cashew cream instead of traditional dairy products, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with your favorite plant-based protein, such as chickpeas or tofu, and follow the same instructions.

How can I customize my Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini, or switch up the spices to create your unique version of this dish!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?

Absolutely! This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is made with gluten-free pasta, ensuring it’s safe for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free is a delicious twist on a comforting favorite. Its creamy texture and zesty flavors make it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Don’t hesitate to customize with your favorite vegetables or proteins! Try it today and enjoy a wholesome meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, a delightful dairy-free and gluten-free twist on a classic comfort dish. This recipe marries wholesome ingredients with robust Cajun flavors, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special gatherings. With its rich cashew cream sauce and zesty spices, this pasta dish is sure to satisfy your cravings while accommodating various dietary needs. Quick to prepare in just 35 minutes, you can enjoy a wholesome meal packed with nutrients and flavor, whether you choose chicken, tofu, or vegetables as your protein source.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 12 ounces gluten-free pasta
• 3/4 cup raw cashews
• 1 1/2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (or tofu)
• Assorted vegetables: onion, red pepper, garlic
• Cajun seasoning or individual spices for flavoring
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Soak cashews in boiling water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook gluten-free pasta according to package instructions and reserve some cooking water.
3. Prepare spice mix by combining onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and cayenne.
4. In a skillet, cook chicken until done; set aside.
5. Sauté onions, peppers, and garlic until tender.
6. Stir in tomato paste and remaining spices; cook briefly.
7. Blend soaked cashews with broth and nutritional yeast until smooth.
8. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and cashew sauce in the skillet; adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed.
9. Season to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 19g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 70mg