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 bursts with zesty Cajun flavor, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and a rich cashew cream sauce creates a wholesome meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Zesty: Packed with Cajun spices, this dish offers a deliciously bold taste that excites your palate.
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 35 minutes, you can whip up this satisfying meal on busy weeknights.
- Versatile Ingredients: The recipe can be easily adapted to include your favorite veggies or proteins, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.
- Comfort Food Without Guilt: Enjoy the creamy texture of traditional pasta dishes while keeping it dairy and gluten free.
- Great for Meal Prep: This recipe makes six servings, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools to make preparation smooth and efficient.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Blender
- Mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly and ensuring it cooks perfectly.
- Skillet: Perfect for sautéing chicken and vegetables, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
- Blender: Creates the smooth cashew cream sauce that binds the dish together.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!, you’ll need the following 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 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
- Spices:
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- (Optional) Pinch or two of cayenne
OR
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning instead of the above spices
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 stove for about 10 minutes until pale and plump.
Step 2: Cook the Gluten Free Pasta
- Start boiling lightly salted water in a large pot. Add gluten free pasta and cook according to package instructions. Reserve about 3/4 cup of cooking water before draining.
Step 3: Prepare Your Spice Mix
- In a small bowl, mix together all dried spices — onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and optional cayenne until well combined.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces seasoned with Cajun spice mix. Cook until browned on both sides and fully cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Step 5: Sauté Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add remaining olive oil along with diced onion, bell peppers, and chopped garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender. If necessary, add water to deglaze any brown bits stuck to the pan.
Step 6: Add Tomato Paste and Seasoning
- Stir in tomato paste along with any remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for another minute while stirring frequently until aromatic.
Step 7: Blend Cashew Sauce
- Drain soaked cashews and place in a blender with broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high speed for at least one minute until smooth and creamy.
Step 8: Combine All Ingredients
- Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and cashew cream sauce. Stir everything together while scraping up any brown bits from the pan’s bottom. Bring mixture to a simmer for about one or two minutes until everything is well coated with sauce.
Step 9: Adjust Consistency & Seasoning
- If needed, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency. Season with additional salt and pepper as desired. Garnish with fresh parsley if using before serving!
How to Serve Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
This creamy and flavorful dish is versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these serving suggestions will elevate your meal experience.
Pair with a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich pasta.
- Cucumber Tomato Salad: Crisp cucumbers and juicy tomatoes tossed in lemon juice provide a zesty complement.
Add Some Crunch
- Garlic Breadsticks: Serve warm garlic breadsticks on the side for a comforting crunch that pairs well with the creamy sauce.
- Roasted Vegetable Medley: Roasting seasonal vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and adds texture to your meal.
Garnish Creatively
- Fresh Herbs: Top each serving with fresh parsley or basil for an aromatic touch that enhances flavors.
- Nutritional Yeast Sprinkle: A sprinkle of nutritional yeast adds a cheesy flavor without dairy, enhancing the overall taste.
How to Perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
Achieving the perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta involves a few easy tweaks. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.
- Soak Cashews Longer: For an ultra-smooth cream, soak cashews for at least an hour. This makes blending easier and results in a creamier texture.
- Taste as You Go: Adjust seasonings during cooking to ensure the flavors are balanced. Start with less salt and add more as needed.
- Use High-Quality Broth: Using homemade or quality store-bought broth enhances the flavor profile of your sauce significantly.
- Don’t Overcook Pasta: Cook pasta al dente for the best texture. It will continue cooking slightly when mixed with the sauce.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to add other veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color in your dish.
- Adjust Consistency Wisely: When adding reserved pasta water, do so gradually until you reach your desired sauce thickness.
Best Side Dishes for Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
Complementing your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta with the right side dishes can transform your meal into an unforgettable feast. Here are some great options to consider:
- Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli offers a vibrant green color and nutrition that pairs excellently with pasta.
- Quinoa Salad: A quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables and herbs provides protein and complements the pasta nicely.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch while being a healthier alternative to regular fries.
- Grilled Asparagus: Grilled asparagus spears seasoned with lemon brighten up the plate and provide a satisfying bite.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage, carrots, and vinaigrette adds crunch and balances out the creamy pasta dish.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Caramelized Brussels sprouts serve as a savory side that enhances the overall flavor profile of your meal.
- Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, serve cauliflower rice on the side; it’s light yet filling!
- Chickpea Salad: A simple chickpea salad with diced onions, bell peppers, and lemon juice offers protein-packed freshness alongside your main dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.
- Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the cashews can lead to a grainy sauce. Always soak them in hot water for at least 30 minutes for a creamy texture.
- Overcooking the Pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in mushiness. Follow package instructions carefully and aim for al dente.
- Ignoring Spice Measurements: Using too much or too little of the spice mix can alter flavor dramatically. Measure precisely and adjust according to your taste preference.
- Not Using Reserved Pasta Water: Failing to reserve pasta water can leave your sauce too thick. Always set aside some before draining for optimal creaminess.
- Neglecting Taste Adjustments: Forgetting to season at the end can leave your dish bland. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
- Rushing the Sauce Creation: Skipping steps or rushing through cooking can compromise flavor. Take your time to sauté spices and vegetables properly.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free in an airtight container.
- It will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
- You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes or until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through until heated thoroughly.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or reserved pasta water if needed to restore creaminess.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes! Simply substitute chicken with tofu or additional vegetables for a delicious vegan option.
What type of pasta is best for this recipe?
Gluten-free pasta works perfectly, but feel free to use any pasta you prefer that fits dietary needs.
How can I customize the spice level?
Adjust the cayenne pepper or use different spices according to your heat preference. For less spice, omit cayenne altogether.
Is there a substitute for nutritional yeast?
You can skip nutritional yeast if unavailable; however, it adds a cheesy flavor that enhances the dish’s richness.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
The total time is approximately 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time, making it perfect for weeknight dinners!
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to incorporate other veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms based on your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free is not only rich and creamy but also versatile enough to customize based on your tastes. With its zesty flavors and lightened-up ingredients, it’s perfect for any night of the week. Don’t hesitate to try different vegetables or protein options; you might just create your new favorite dish!
Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! This delightful dish combines tender chicken with vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich and zesty cashew cream sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, it brings comfort food to a whole new level while remaining dairy and gluten-free. With its bold Cajun flavors and quick preparation time, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite that satisfies cravings without any guilt.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients
- 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
- 1/2 large red pepper
- 1/2 a large yellow or orange pepper
- 3 cloves of garlic
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- Pinch or two of cayenne (optional)
- Parsley, to garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Soak cashews in hot water for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook gluten-free pasta according to package instructions; reserve some cooking water.
- In a small bowl, combine spices for seasoning.
- Cook chicken in olive oil until browned; remove from skillet.
- Sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic in the same skillet.
- Stir in tomato paste and spices.
- Blend soaked cashews with broth and nutritional yeast until smooth.
- Add cooked pasta, chicken, and cashew sauce to the skillet; stir to combine.
- Adjust consistency with reserved pasta water if needed; season to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Cajun
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 530
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 58g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg