Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Dairy free and gluten free, this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is a delightful twist on a classic comfort dish. With its creamy texture and zesty Cajun seasoning, it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients to create a satisfying meal that will impress both family and friends. Plus, it’s easy to make and offers a vegan option for those looking to explore plant-based meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: Enjoy the rich, creamy sauce made from cashews combined with bold Cajun spices.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main dish or paired with a side salad, this pasta can fit any dining occasion.
• Quick Preparation: With only 35 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up this dish even on busy nights.
• Healthier Option: This recipe is dairy free and gluten free, making it a lighter alternative to traditional pasta dishes.
• Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap out the chicken for your favorite protein or add more veggies for extra nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

To create the perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, having the right tools can make all the difference. Here are some essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: A powerful blender ensures your cashew cream turns out silky smooth, enhancing the dish’s overall texture.
• Large Skillet: Using a large skillet allows you to sauté vegetables and chicken evenly without overcrowding.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: A large pot helps cook the pasta thoroughly while allowing it enough space to move freely.

Ingredients

For the Cashew Cream 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 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 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

Garnish

• Parsley (to garnish – optional)

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

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Start by placing raw cashews in a heatproof bowl and covering them 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 stove for about 10 minutes until they’re plump.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to boil. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Before draining, reserve about 3/4 cup of cooking water then drain and 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 desired. Stir 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 browned on both sides and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Add remaining 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 if browning occurs at the bottom.

Step 6: Add Tomato Paste & Seasoning

Stir in tomato paste and remaining Cajun seasoning; cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 7: Blend Cashew Cream Sauce

Drain soaked cashews and place them in your blender with broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and cashew cream sauce; stir well. Scrape up any brown bits at the bottom of the pan as it simmers for about one or two minutes until everything is coated in sauce.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency & Seasoning

If needed, gradually add reserved pasta water until you reach your desired sauce consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper as preferred. Top 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 its creamy texture and zesty flavor. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to complement this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Basil or Cilantro: For a unique twist, consider using chopped basil or cilantro for added aroma.

Add a Crunchy Topping

• Toasted Breadcrumbs: Lightly toast gluten-free breadcrumbs in olive oil for an extra crunch.
• Nuts or Seeds: Sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sunflower seeds for texture and nutty flavor.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and balsamic vinaigrette pairs perfectly.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.

Serve with Additional Sauce

• Extra Cashew Cream: Drizzle more cashew cream on top for those who love creaminess.
• Spicy Hot Sauce: Offer a side of hot sauce for an extra kick of heat.

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

Achieving perfection in your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is easy with these tips.

• Use Soaked Cashews: Soak your cashews long enough to ensure they blend smoothly into a creamy sauce.
• Cook Chicken Thoroughly: Ensure chicken pieces are cooked until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go! Adjust the salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference for optimal flavor.
• Reserve Pasta Water: Always save some pasta cooking water; it helps adjust the consistency of the sauce without losing flavor.
• Don’t Overcook Veggies: Sauté vegetables just until tender to maintain their vibrant colors and nutrients.
• Experiment with Broth: Try different broths (chicken or vegetable) to find your favorite flavor combination.

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 fantastic options.

1. Garlic Bread: Toasted gluten-free garlic bread makes for a perfect accompaniment to soak up the creamy sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers adds healthy variety.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the pasta beautifully.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast that balances the creaminess of the dish.
5. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil enhances your plate’s visual appeal and taste.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet note that rounds out the meal nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!, it’s easy to overlook some key steps that can affect the final dish’s flavor and texture.

• Over-soaking cashews: Soaking cashews for too long can make them too soft. Aim for 30 minutes to an hour for the best creamy texture.
• Neglecting pasta water: Forgetting to reserve pasta water can result in a sauce that is too thick. Always set aside some cooking water to adjust the sauce consistency.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoning can lead to a bland dish. Taste as you cook and adjust the salt and spices until you achieve your desired flavor.
• Cooking chicken at high heat: Cooking chicken on high heat may cause it to dry out. Cook it over medium-high heat, turning it often for even cooking.
• Skimming on broth quality: Using low-quality broth can affect the overall taste. Opt for a flavorful, low-sodium broth for better results.
• Ignoring customization options: Sticking strictly to the recipe may limit your creativity. Feel free to add more vegetables or spices according to your taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
• Best consumed within 2-3 months for quality.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake until heated through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally, until warmed, usually about 2-3 minutes.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth or water if needed, stirring frequently until heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute chicken with plant-based protein or extra veggies and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I make this pasta gluten-free?

Use certified gluten-free pasta available in most grocery stores. This ensures your dish remains gluten-free while still being delicious.

What can I use instead of cashews?

If you’re allergic to nuts, try using sunflower seeds soaked in water as an alternative. Blend them as you would with cashews.

How spicy is this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?

The spice level can be adjusted by modifying the amount of cayenne or Cajun seasoning you use. Start small and add more if you prefer it spicier!

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to include your favorite vegetables such as zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for added nutrition and flavor.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

The preparation time is around 10 minutes with a total cooking time of about 25 minutes, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! offers a delightful twist on classic comfort food. The creamy cashew sauce combined with zesty Cajun spices creates an irresistible dish that’s both satisfying and nourishing. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for even more variety. Give it a try tonight!