Dairy free and gluten free, this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is a deliciously creamy dish that offers a lighter take on a comfort food favorite. Perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings, this recipe shines with zesty Cajun flavors and a velvety sauce made from cashews. It’s not just tasty; it’s also wholesome and versatile enough to cater to various dietary needs.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Creamy Texture: The cashew cream creates a rich and satisfying sauce without any dairy.
- Zesty Flavor: A combination of spices delivers a punch of Cajun flavor that elevates the dish.
- Quick to Prepare: With only 35 minutes from start to finish, this pasta is perfect for busy evenings.
- Health-Conscious: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is both nourishing and filling.
- Versatile Options: Easily adaptable for vegans or those looking for gluten-free meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, having the right tools can make all the difference in your culinary experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Blender
- Heatproof bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Blender: Essential for creating the silky smooth cashew cream that serves as the base of your sauce.
- Skillet: Provides an ideal surface for sautéing chicken and vegetables evenly, enhancing their flavors.
Ingredients
For the Cashew Cream
- 3/4 cup raw cashews
For the Pasta
- 12 ounces gluten free pasta
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
For the Chicken & Veggies
- 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
For Seasoning & Sauce
- 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 Liquid & Flavor Enhancers
- 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 Garnish
- Parsley, to garnish (optional)
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 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
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. Set aside.
Step 3: Prepare Spices
In a small bowl, mix together all dried spices—onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme—and cayenne if using. Set aside.
Step 4: Cook Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add chicken pieces and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of your spice mix. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Sauté Vegetables
Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet along with diced onion, bell peppers, and chopped garlic. Sauté for about 3–4 minutes until vegetables are tender. If necessary, add water to deglaze any dark bits stuck at the bottom.
Step 6: Combine Tomato Paste & Spices
Stir in tomato paste and remaining Cajun spice mix into the skillet. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Remove from heat while you prepare the cashew cream sauce.
Step 7: Blend Cashew Cream
Drain soaked cashews and add them to your blender with broth, nutritional yeast, salt (1 1/2 teaspoons), and black pepper (1/2 teaspoon). Blend on high until smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Combine Everything
Return the skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta and chicken back into the skillet along with cashew cream sauce. Stir well to combine while scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Bring mixture to a simmer.
Step 9: Adjust Consistency
Allow it all to simmer for about one or two minutes until everything is well-coated in sauce. Gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired consistency—thinner makes it creamier!
Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving hot!
How to Serve Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
Serving Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful experience that brings out the flavors of this creamy dish. Pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate your meal and make it even more enjoyable.
Add Fresh Greens
- Arugula Salad – Toss arugula with lemon juice and olive oil for a peppery complement to the creamy pasta.
- Spinach – Lightly sauté spinach with garlic for a nutritious side that balances richness.
Include Crusty Bread
- Garlic Bread – Serve warm, toasted garlic bread for a crunchy texture that pairs well with the sauce.
- Baguette Slices – Offer slices of baguette for dipping into the cashew cream sauce.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Parsley – Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
- Chili Flakes – Add a pinch of chili flakes for those who enjoy extra heat in their dish.
How to Perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
Perfecting your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta involves attention to detail and a few cooking tips. These suggestions will help you achieve a creamy, flavorful dish every time.
- Soak cashews longer – Soaking cashews for at least an hour makes them creamier when blended.
- Adjust seasoning gradually – Taste as you go, adding salt and spices little by little to achieve your preferred flavor.
- Use quality broth – A good-quality broth enhances the taste of the sauce significantly.
- Don’t overcook pasta – Cook pasta just until al dente so it holds up well in the sauce.
- Reserve pasta water wisely – The starchy water helps to adjust sauce consistency without losing flavor.
- Experiment with veggies – Feel free to add or swap in your favorite vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added nutrition.
Best Side Dishes for Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
Complementing your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Roasted Vegetables – A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until tender brings out natural sweetness.
- Cauliflower Rice – Light and fluffy cauliflower rice offers a low-carb alternative that’s great for scooping up sauce.
- Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw made with vinegar dressing adds crunch and balances richness.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Sweet corn serves as a fun, summer-inspired side that pairs wonderfully with Cajun flavors.
- Zucchini Noodles – For a lighter option, serve spiralized zucchini as an alternative base alongside the pasta.
- Quinoa Salad – A refreshing quinoa salad mixed with herbs and citrus can provide protein and lightness to your meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the cashew soaking: Not soaking the cashews properly can lead to a grainy sauce. Make sure to soak them for at least 30 minutes or simmer them on the stove for about 10 minutes until plump and soft.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it tough and dry. Keep an eye on it and remove it from heat once it’s cooked through, ensuring it remains juicy.
- Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Every broth is different, and you may need to adjust salt and pepper levels. Always taste your dish before serving, adding more seasoning as needed.
- Not reserving pasta water: This starchy water is key to achieving the perfect sauce consistency. Always reserve some before draining your pasta, as it helps bind the sauce.
- Using cold ingredients in the blender: Adding cold ingredients can result in an unevenly blended cashew cream. Ensure that your cashews are warm from soaking for a smooth texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.
Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
- Leave space at the top of the container as the sauce may expand when frozen.
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 bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or water in a skillet over medium heat. Stir occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! so creamy?
The creamy texture comes from blended soaked cashews combined with broth and nutritional yeast, creating a rich sauce without dairy.
Can I use other types of pasta?
Yes! You can substitute gluten-free pasta with any preferred type. Just adjust the cooking time according to package instructions.
How can I customize this recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrition. You can also swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for a vegan option.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! This dish stores well in the fridge or freezer, making it perfect for meal prepping throughout the week.
What spices are essential for Cajun flavor?
The essential spices include smoked paprika, dried thyme, oregano, and cayenne pepper. You can also use pre-made Cajun seasoning if you prefer convenience.
Final Thoughts
Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is not only delicious but also versatile and customizable. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish brings comfort food back into your life without dairy or gluten. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives, you’re bound to enjoy this wholesome meal!
Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x
Description
Indulge in a deliciously creamy and zesty meal with our Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, designed to be both dairy-free and gluten-free. This savory dish is ideal for busy weeknights or gatherings, bringing the comforting essence of pasta alive with its rich cashew cream sauce and bold Cajun flavors. With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, you’ll enjoy a nutritious and satisfying meal that caters to various dietary needs without sacrificing taste. Perfectly paired with fresh greens or crusty bread, this versatile pasta dish promises to be a hit at your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 3/4 cup raw cashews
- 12 ounces gluten-free pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 small yellow onion
- 1/2 large red pepper
- 1/2 large yellow or orange pepper
- 3 cloves garlic
- Spices: tomato paste, onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, smoked paprika, thyme, cayenne (optional)
- 1 1/2 cups broth (chicken or vegetable)
- Nutritional yeast
Instructions
- Soak cashews in boiled water for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook gluten-free pasta according to package instructions; reserve some cooking water.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté chicken pieces seasoned with spice mix until browned.
- Add diced onion and bell peppers; sauté until tender.
- Stir in tomato paste and remaining spices; cook until fragrant.
- Blend soaked cashews with broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Combine chicken, veggies, cooked pasta, and cashew cream in the skillet; simmer gently.
- Adjust sauce consistency with reserved pasta water if needed; serve hot.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing/Blending
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 350g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 29g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 24g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 53g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 23g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Soak cashews longer for an even creamier texture. Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition. For a vegan version, substitute chicken with tofu or shrimp.