Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Dairy free and gluten free, the Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is a delightful twist on a comfort food classic. This creamy dish brings together zesty Cajun flavors and wholesome ingredients, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its rich texture and vibrant colors, it’s sure to please family and friends alike while being easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort Food: Experience the warmth of Cajun spices combined with creamy cashew sauce, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.
• Quick & Easy: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something special without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Versatile Options: Easily adjust the recipe by substituting chicken with turkey or using plant-based proteins for a vegan take on this dish.
• Health-Conscious Choice: Gluten free and dairy free, this pasta dish is packed with nutrients while still being indulgent, allowing you to enjoy comfort food guilt-free.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Great for gatherings, this recipe serves six people, making it an ideal option for family dinners or potlucks.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather a few essential tools before you begin. These items will help ensure your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Blender
• Heatproof bowl
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling pasta evenly without crowding, ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Skillet: Provides ample space for sautéing vegetables and cooking chicken while allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Blender: Essential for creating a smooth cashew cream sauce that will coat the pasta perfectly.

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Ingredients

For the Cashew Cream Sauce

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

For the Pasta Dish

• 12 ounces gluten free pasta
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 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 of garlic (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For the Seasoning Mix

• 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 onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and thyme

Optional Garnish

• Parsley (to garnish)

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

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

• In a heatproof bowl, cover raw cashews with just boiled water. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour. If short on time, simmer the cashews on the stovetop for about 10 minutes until they become pale and plump.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

• Start a large pot of lightly salted water to boil. Cook gluten free pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 3/4 cup of cooking water before draining.

Step 3: Prepare the Spice Mix

• In a small bowl, mix together all dried spices – onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and cayenne (if using). Ensure they are well combined.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

• Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Once hot, add chicken breast pieces and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the Cajun seasoning mix. Cook until browned and cooked through on both sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

• Add another tablespoon of olive oil into the same skillet along with diced onion, bell peppers, and chopped garlic. Sauté until tender for about 3–4 minutes. Add water if necessary to prevent burning.

Step 6: Incorporate Tomato Paste

• Stir in tomato paste along with remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for another minute until aromatic. Remove from heat while preparing the sauce.

Step 7: Blend Cashews into Sauce

• Drain soaked cashews and transfer them into a blender along with broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high speed until super smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Combine Everything Together

• Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta, cooked chicken pieces, and cashew cream sauce into the skillet. Stir thoroughly while scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring mixture to a simmer.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

• Allow sauce to simmer for one or two minutes until it coats pasta well. Gradually add reserved pasta water until desired consistency is achieved; use additional broth or water if needed.

Step 10: Serve

• Season with additional salt and pepper as needed. Top with fresh parsley if desired before serving warm!

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

This creamy and zesty dish is perfect for any weeknight dinner. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, serving it right can enhance the dining experience for you and your guests.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Basil: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens the dish.

Pair with a Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce, making for a delightful combination.

Add a Protein Boost

• Grilled Shrimp or Turkey: For an extra protein kick, consider adding grilled shrimp or turkey slices on top of the pasta before serving.

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

Creating the perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta takes some care and attention. Here are some tips to help you achieve that creamy, flavorful result every time.

• Soak Cashews Properly: Make sure to soak cashews in boiling water for at least 30 minutes. This ensures they blend smoothly into a creamy sauce.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables like peppers and onions. They not only taste better but also add nutritional value.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne pepper or Cajun seasoning based on your heat preference.

• Reserve Pasta Water: Always reserve some pasta cooking water before draining. It’s great for adjusting the sauce consistency later on.

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

Pairing side dishes with your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized brings out their natural sweetness and adds a healthy touch.

2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumber, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.

3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli not only adds color but also provides crunch and nutrition alongside your main dish.

4. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries are a fun side that complements the flavors of the Cajun chicken pasta nicely.

5. Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumber salad dressed in olive oil and vinegar serves as a cooling counterpart to the spicy pasta.

6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob is sweet and satisfying, making it a great addition to your meal.

7. Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices can be served on the side or even added directly atop the pasta for extra creaminess.

8. Garlic Roasted Potatoes: These crispy, flavorful potatoes are hearty enough to balance out the meal while being easy to prepare.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, especially when trying new recipes like Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Not soaking cashews – Failing to soak the cashews can result in a gritty sauce. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes for a smooth texture.
• Overcooking pasta – Cooking the pasta too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and aim for al dente for the best results.
• Ignoring spice measurements – Using too much or too little of the spices can alter the flavor significantly. Measure carefully and taste as you go.
• Skimping on seasoning – Under-seasoning is a common mistake that can lead to bland pasta. Use enough salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Not reserving pasta water – Forgetting to save some pasta cooking water may lead to a thick sauce. Always reserve some to adjust consistency later.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• To freeze, place the pasta in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just be sure to label it with the date.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop – Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water as needed until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

You can experiment with other nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts, but they may alter the flavor and creaminess slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This recipe is excellent for meal prep and stores well in the fridge or freezer.

How do I make this recipe vegan?

To make it vegan, simply substitute chicken with your favorite plant-based protein such as tofu or chickpeas.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include other veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

What should I serve with Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free?

This dish pairs well with a fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal.

Final Thoughts

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! offers a delightful blend of creamy texture and zesty flavors that everyone will love. This versatile dish allows for customization by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try for your next dinner!