Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Dairy free and gluten free, Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. This creamy dish bursts with zesty Cajun flavors, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its wholesome ingredients and vibrant colors, this pasta not only satisfies your cravings but also caters to various dietary needs, including gluten-free and dairy-free diets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Comfort: This dish combines the rich flavors of Cajun spices with creamy cashew sauce for a comforting meal.
• Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthier Option: Enjoy all the creaminess without dairy, making it lighter yet satisfying.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily swap out the chicken for plant-based proteins to make it vegan-friendly.
• Crowd-Pleaser: It’s a family-friendly meal that even picky eaters will love!

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, you will need some essential kitchen tools that make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly without overcrowding.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and cooking chicken to achieve that ideal texture.
• Blender: Transforms soaked cashews into a smooth, creamy sauce effortlessly.

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 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

• Parsley (optional)

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 of cooking water before draining and setting aside.

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: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. When hot, add the chicken breast pieces and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the Cajun seasoning mix. Cook until cooked through on both sides. Remove 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 veggies for about 3–4 minutes until tender. If necessary, add a bit of water to release brown bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Step 6: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

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

Step 7: Blend Cashew Sauce

Drain soaked cashews and add them to a blender with broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high for at least one minute until super smooth.

Step 8: Combine Ingredients

Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and cashew cream sauce. Stir well while scraping up any brown bits from the pan. Bring to a simmer.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

Allow it to simmer for one or two minutes until everything is coated nicely. Gradually add reserved pasta water as needed until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 10: Final Seasoning

Season with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Top with fresh parsley if desired before serving!

Enjoy your homemade Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! It’s sure to become a favorite!

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

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal experience.

For a Cozy Family Dinner

• Serve in large bowls with extra cashew cream drizzled on top for added richness.
• Pair with warm, crusty gluten-free bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

With a Fresh Salad

• A simple green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the pasta.
• Consider adding sliced avocado for a creamy texture and healthy fats.

As Meal Prep

• Divide into individual containers for easy lunches throughout the week.
• Store in the fridge and reheat for a quick, satisfying meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Top with fresh parsley or basil to add color and freshness.
• A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add an extra kick.

With Wine Pairing

• Serve with a chilled glass of white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to elevate the dining experience.
• For a non-alcoholic option, try sparkling water with lemon.

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

To create the best Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, follow these tips for perfect results every time.

• Soak cashews adequately: Soaking cashews for at least 30 minutes ensures they blend into a smooth and creamy sauce.
• Don’t rush the cooking: Cook chicken until golden brown for added flavor. This enhances the overall taste of your dish.
• Season generously: Adjust seasoning according to your taste preferences. More salt or spices can elevate the flavors significantly.
• Save pasta water: Reserve some pasta cooking water before draining; it helps adjust sauce consistency and adds flavor.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, reduce cayenne or opt for mild Cajun seasoning. Adjust according to your family’s taste.

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

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta pairs well with various side dishes that complement its flavors. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Toss broccoli florets in olive oil, garlic, and salt before roasting until crispy.
2. Cajun Corn on the Cob: Grill corn and season with Cajun spices for a zesty side that matches the pasta’s flavor profile.
3. Simple Cucumber Salad: Combine sliced cucumbers with vinegar, dill, and salt for a refreshing crunch.
4. Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and lemon dressing for a light side dish packed with protein.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Bake sweet potato fries seasoned with paprika as a sweet contrast to the spicy pasta.
6. Herbed Rice Pilaf: Prepare rice pilaf infused with herbs like thyme or parsley to soak up any leftover sauce from your pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! can be easy, but there are common mistakes that could ruin your dish. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Skipping the soaking step: Failing to soak the cashews properly can lead to a grainy sauce. Always soak for at least 30 minutes for a creamy texture.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking the gluten-free pasta too long can result in mushiness. Follow package directions closely for al dente perfection.
• Not seasoning adequately: Dismissing salt and spices can make your dish bland. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning for maximum flavor.
• Using low-quality broth: Using an inferior broth can dull the dish’s flavor. Opt for a high-quality vegetable or chicken broth for richer taste.
• Ignoring reserved pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta water means missing out on a creamier sauce. Always reserve some before draining your pasta.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Place in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding extra broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! that might help you.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply omit the chicken or substitute it with plant-based protein options like chickpeas or tofu.

How do I make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! spicier?

Add more cayenne or use a spicier Cajun seasoning blend. Adjust according to your heat preference.

What gluten-free pasta works best?

Any gluten-free pasta works, but brown rice or chickpea pasta tends to hold up well in this dish.

Can I prepare the cashew cream ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cashew cream a day before and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to use it.

Final Thoughts

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different vegetables or proteins based on your preferences. Give it a try, and enjoy this cozy meal any night of the week!