Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Dairy free and gluten free, this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. Perfect for any weeknight dinner, it combines zesty Cajun flavors with a creamy texture that will satisfy your cravings. The use of cashews adds richness without dairy, making it suitable for various dietary needs. Enjoy this wholesome dish that’s quick to prepare and bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort: Experience the rich, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine without the heaviness of traditional cream.
• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes just 35 minutes to whip up, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Whether you’re serving family or hosting friends, this pasta dish is sure to impress everyone at the table.
• Diet-Friendly: It’s both gluten free and dairy free, accommodating a variety of dietary restrictions while keeping taste in mind.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from cashews, it’s a wholesome option for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare the Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, you’ll need a few essential tools that will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Blender
• Heatproof bowl
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Necessary for boiling pasta evenly, ensuring it cooks to perfection.
• Skillet: Ideal for sautéing vegetables and chicken, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Blender: Essential for creating the creamy cashew sauce that brings the dish together.

Ingredients

For the Pasta and Chicken

• 12 ounces gluten free pasta
• 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 a large red pepper, thinly sliced
• 1/2 a large yellow or orange pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 cloves of garlic, chopped

For the 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 onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and thyme

For the Sauce

• 3/4 cup raw cashews
• 1 1/2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable) 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 Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Cover the raw cashews with just boiled water in a heatproof bowl. Let them soak for at least 30 minutes or up to an hour. If you’re short on time, simmer them on the stove top 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. Cook the 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 the dried spices – onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and cayenne (if using) until well combined.

Step 4: Brown the Chicken

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

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Add an additional tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet along with diced onion, bell peppers, and chopped garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until tender. If necessary, add a tablespoon or two of water to deglaze any brown bits from the bottom.

Step 6: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Stir in tomato paste and remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for another minute until fragrant before removing from heat while you blend your sauce.

Step 7: Make Cashew Sauce

Drain soaked cashews and place them in a blender with broth, nutritional yeast, salt (1 ½ teaspoons), and black pepper (½ teaspoon). Blend on high until super smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta along with chicken pieces and cashew cream sauce. Stir well while scraping any brown bits from the pan’s bottom. Bring everything to a simmer for about one or two minutes.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

As it simmers, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency. If you didn’t reserve any water or need extra liquid, use broth or regular water as needed.

Step 10: Final Seasoning

Taste your dish; season with extra salt and pepper if desired. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving! Enjoy your delicious Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

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

Serving Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is all about enhancing the flavors and making it a delightful experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions that elevate this dish.

Pair with Fresh Greens

• Simple Green Salad: Toss mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Caesar Salad: A dairy-free Caesar salad adds crunch and flavor, complementing the creamy pasta.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled Shrimp: Top your pasta with grilled shrimp for an added layer of flavor and nutrition.
• Chickpeas: For a plant-based protein boost, sprinkle roasted chickpeas on top of the dish.

Garnish Creatively

• Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of parsley adds color and freshness.
• Lemon Zest: Adding lemon zest enhances the flavors with a zesty kick.

Serve in Style

• Individual Bowls: Present each serving in stylish bowls for a dinner party.
• Family Style: Serve in a large bowl where everyone can help themselves for a casual meal.

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

To achieve perfection in your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, consider these helpful tips that will enhance your cooking process.

• Soak Cashews Properly: Soaking cashews for at least 30 minutes ensures they blend smoothly into a creamy texture.
• Season Generously: Don’t be shy with spices. Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences to enhance the dish.
• Monitor Sauce Consistency: Keep an eye on the sauce; add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach your desired creaminess.
• Use Quality Broth: The flavor of your broth impacts the overall taste. Choose homemade or high-quality store-bought options for the best results.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure chicken pieces are cooked through but still juicy by monitoring their cooking time closely.
• Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add or swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or prefer.

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

Pairing side dishes with your creamy pasta can enhance the meal experience greatly. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide a delicious and healthy complement to the pasta.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad adds protein and keeps the meal balanced without overpowering flavors.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw brings crunch and acidity, cutting through the creaminess of the dish.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus offers a fresh taste that pairs well with bold Cajun flavors.
6. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and texture, making them an appealing choice alongside this dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! can be delightful, but there are common pitfalls that can affect your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Over-soaking cashews: Soaking cashews for too long can make them mushy. Aim for 30 minutes, or just simmer them for 10 minutes if you’re short on time.
• Skipping the pasta water: Not reserving pasta water will limit your sauce’s creaminess. Always save a bit before draining your pasta to adjust the sauce consistency later.
• Using too much salt upfront: Seasoning too early can lead to an overly salty dish. Start with less salt and adjust at the end of cooking to suit your taste.
• Neglecting to sauté vegetables properly: Under-cooking or overcooking veggies can affect their texture. Sauté them until tender but still crisp for the best flavor balance.
• Blending the cashew cream insufficiently: Not blending cashews long enough can leave chunks in the sauce. Ensure you blend until completely smooth for a rich texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Make sure it’s cooled down before sealing the container to avoid condensation.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; label the containers with date and contents.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covering loosely. Stir halfway through and heat until warmed through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium-low heat, add a splash of broth and stir until heated evenly, adjusting consistency as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!?

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is a creamy pasta dish made with blended cashews instead of dairy. It’s packed with spices that bring a zesty Cajun flavor.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any animal products from your seasoning choices.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can vary based on your choice of Cajun seasoning and cayenne pepper. Adjust these ingredients to suit your personal taste.

Can I substitute other types of pasta?

Absolutely! You can use any gluten-free pasta you prefer or even whole wheat pasta if you’re not concerned about gluten.

How do I ensure my cashew cream is smooth?

Blend the soaked cashews thoroughly with broth and nutritional yeast until they reach a silky consistency. This may take a minute or two in your blender.

Final Thoughts

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or proteins according to your preference. Enjoy this comforting dish any night of the week, knowing it caters to various dietary needs while delivering incredible flavor!

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 a creamy, dairy-free twist on a classic with Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta. This delightful dish blends zesty Cajun spices with a smooth cashew cream sauce, offering a satisfying comfort food experience without gluten or dairy. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or entertaining friends. With protein-packed chicken and heart-healthy fats from cashews, you can enjoy a nutritious meal that caters to various dietary needs while delivering bold flavors. Get ready to impress your taste buds with every bite!

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Ingredients

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• 12 ounces gluten-free pasta
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3/4 cup raw cashews
• 1 1/2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• Cajun seasoning (or homemade spice blend)

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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; reserve cooking water before draining.
3. In a skillet, brown the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning and set aside.
4. Sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic until tender; add tomato paste and remaining seasoning.
5. Blend soaked cashews with broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper until smooth.
6. Combine cooked pasta, chicken, and cashew sauce in the skillet; mix well to heat through.
7. Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water as needed.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (350g)
• Calories: 540
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Fat: 25g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 56g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 70mg