Dairy free and gluten free, this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. This creamy dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. It’s packed with zesty Cajun flavors, satisfying your cravings without any dairy. Enjoy a wholesome meal that everyone will love!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The cashew cream sauce makes this pasta rich and indulgent without any dairy.
• Versatile: Perfect for weeknight dinners, this recipe can be adapted to include your favorite veggies or proteins.
• Quick to Prepare: Ready in just 35 minutes, it’s an ideal option for busy evenings.
• Diet-Friendly: This dish is both dairy free and gluten free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.
• Flavorful Spices: The blend of Cajun spices adds a kick that elevates the entire dish.

Tools and Preparation

To whip up this delicious Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large pot
• Skillet
• Heatproof bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating the smooth, creamy cashew sauce that defines this dish.
• Large Pot: Necessary for boiling the gluten free pasta to perfection.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and vegetables, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

For the Cashew Cream Sauce

• 3/4 cup raw cashews
• 1 1/2 cups broth, chicken or vegetable broth both work 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 a large red pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 a large yellow or orange pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For Seasoning

• 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

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

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

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Before you start cooking, in a heatproof bowl, cover raw cashews with just boiled water for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour. If you’re in a hurry, simmer the cashews on the stovetop for about 10 minutes until they are pale and plump.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Start a large pot of lightly salted water to boil for the pasta. Cook according to package instructions. Reserve about 3/4 cup cooking water. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Prepare Seasonings

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

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet along with diced onion, bell peppers, and chopped garlic. Sauté veggies for about 3–4 minutes until tender. If necessary, add water to release brown bits on the skillet.

Step 6: Add Tomato Paste and Remaining Spices

Mix in tomato paste and remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for another minute until spices are aromatic and tomato paste darkens slightly. Remove from heat while preparing pasta sauce.

Step 7: Blend Cashew Sauce

Drain soaked cashews and place them into a blender with broth, nutritional yeast, salt (1 1/2 teaspoons), and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon). Blend on high for at least one minute until super smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Return skillet to stovetop over medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta, cooked chicken, and cashew cream sauce. Stir to combine while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring everything to a simmer.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

Allow to simmer for one or two minutes until sauce coats pasta and chicken nicely. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed until desired consistency is reached. More liquid yields softer sauce.

Step 10: Season & Garnish

Season generously with salt and pepper as per taste preference. Top with fresh parsley if desired before serving!

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

Serving Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience that enhances its creamy flavor and zesty profile. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy meal at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil Leaves: Add a few basil leaves for an aromatic touch.

Paired with Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with lettuce, cucumbers, and tomatoes complements the richness of the pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A dairy-free Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor.

Accompanied by Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for a comforting side.
• Crusty Baguette: A slice of crusty baguette is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

As Leftovers

• Reheated for Lunch: This pasta reheats well, making it a great option for lunch the next day.
• Topped with Extra Cashew Cream: Add more cashew cream when reheating to refresh its creamy texture.

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

Achieving the perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta involves attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Here are some tips to help you master this recipe.

• Soak Cashews Longer: Soaking cashews for longer than recommended can enhance creaminess.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs will boost the flavor profile significantly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of cayenne or Cajun seasoning based on your spice preference.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water; it helps adjust sauce consistency later.
• Taste as You Go: Regularly taste your dish while cooking to ensure seasoning is just right.
• Mix Up Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety in this dish.

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

Complementing your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta with the right sides can make your meal even more enjoyable. Here are some excellent choices to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and balances the richness of the pasta.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes provides a delicious contrast.
3. Grilled Asparagus: Grilling asparagus brings out its natural flavors, making it an elegant side.
4. Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette offers protein and freshness.
5. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw can add texture and a refreshing element to your meal.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn on the cob is always a crowd-pleaser, enhancing the Cajun theme!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Avoid these pitfalls for the best results.

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the cashews can result in a gritty texture. Always soak them for at least 30 minutes to ensure a creamy sauce.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Cook until just done and remove it from the heat promptly.
• Neglecting to reserve pasta water: This water helps adjust the sauce’s consistency. Always save some before draining the pasta.
• Using low-quality spices: Using old or low-quality spices can dull the flavor. Always use fresh, high-quality spices for that vibrant Cajun kick.
• Not tasting as you go: Failing to taste can lead to bland food. Always sample your dish and adjust seasoning as needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the pasta to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• For best quality, store in smaller portions for easier reheating.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, stirring every minute until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat in a skillet, adding reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions regarding Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply substitute chicken with your favorite plant-based protein or tofu.

What can I use instead of cashews?

You can use sunflower seeds or silken tofu as a dairy-free alternative. Adjust blending time for smoothness.

How spicy is the Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?

The spice level depends on your choice of Cajun seasoning and how much cayenne you add. Adjust according to your taste preference!

Can I use regular pasta?

While this recipe is designed as gluten free, you can substitute regular pasta if gluten is not an issue for you.

Final Thoughts

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that everyone will love. Its creamy sauce paired with zesty Cajun spices makes it perfect for any weeknight dinner. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give this versatile dish a try!

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Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

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• Author: Madison
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the rich flavors of Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, a dairy-free, gluten-free delight that transforms classic comfort food into a healthy masterpiece. This creamy dish bursts with zesty Cajun spices, making it perfect for both busy weeknight dinners and special occasions. The velvety cashew cream sauce elevates the pasta, providing a satisfying meal that everyone will adore.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 3/4 cup raw cashews
• 1 1/2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
• 12 ounces gluten-free pasta
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 small yellow onion, finely diced
• 1/2 a large red pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 a large yellow or orange pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, chopped
• 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)
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning instead of onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and thyme
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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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.
3. Sauté chicken in olive oil until fully cooked; set aside.
4. In the same skillet, sauté onions and bell peppers until tender.
5. Mix in tomato paste and Cajun spices; cook for an additional minute.
6. Blend soaked cashews with broth until smooth.
7. Combine pasta, chicken, sautéed vegetables, and cashew cream in the skillet; simmer until heated through.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing/Blending
• Cuisine: Cajun

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 21g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 25g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Soaking cashews longer enhances creaminess. Feel free to substitute chicken with shrimp or tofu for variety. Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of cayenne or Cajun seasoning.