Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

Dairy free and gluten free, this creamy Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is a lightened-up version of a comfort food classic! It’s perfect for any night of the week, delivering wholesome goodness packed with zesty Cajun flavor. This dish not only satisfies cravings but also offers a cozy meal option that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The blend of Cajun spices and creamy cashew sauce creates a rich and satisfying dish.
• Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from start to finish, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Versatile Ingredients: Easily swap chicken for turkey or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste preferences.
• Nutritious Options: Packed with veggies and protein, this dish keeps you feeling full without weighing you down.
• Suitable for Everyone: Enjoyed by dairy-free and gluten-free eaters alike, making it a great crowd-pleaser!

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the essential tools before you begin. Having everything ready will help streamline the process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Blender
• Heatproof bowl
• Cooking utensils

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta efficiently while ensuring it cooks evenly.
• Skillet: Perfect for sautéing vegetables and chicken, allowing flavors to meld together beautifully.
• Blender: Crucial for creating a super smooth cashew cream that acts as the sauce base.
• Heatproof bowl: Ideal for soaking cashews in hot water to soften them quickly.

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)

Alternative Seasoning Option

OR
* 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning instead of onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and thyme

Garnish (Optional)

• Parsley

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 short on time, 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. Cook gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 3/4 cup cooking water before draining and set 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 chicken breast pieces and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of the Cajun seasoning mix. Cook until golden brown 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 3-4 minutes or until tender. If the bottom darkens too much, add a splash of water to deglaze.

Step 6: Combine Tomato Paste & Spices

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

Step 7: Blend Cashew Sauce

Drain soaked cashews and transfer them to a blender. Add broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and black pepper. Blend on high until completely smooth.

Step 8: Combine Everything

Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta, chicken pieces, and cashew cream sauce. Stir well to combine while scraping any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Bring to a simmer; allow it to cook for one or two minutes until everything is coated nicely.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency & Serve

As it simmers, gradually add reserved pasta water to reach desired sauce consistency. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Top with fresh parsley if desired before serving!

Enjoy your delicious Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! at dinner tonight!

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

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.

Pair with a Simple Salad

• A fresh green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers adds a crisp contrast to the creamy pasta.

Enjoy with Garlic Bread

• Serve alongside warm, gluten-free garlic bread for a comforting side that complements the richness of the dish.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish each plate with freshly chopped parsley or cilantro for an extra burst of flavor and color.

Add Some Heat

• For those who enjoy spice, serve with additional cayenne pepper on the side to sprinkle over individual portions.

Pair with a Light Wine Alternative

• Consider serving with sparkling water infused with lemon or lime for a refreshing drink that balances the flavors.

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

To truly master this dish, keep these essential tips in mind for optimal results.

• Soak cashews properly: Soaking enhances creaminess; ensure they soak for at least 30 minutes for the best texture.
• Cook pasta al dente: This prevents it from becoming mushy when combined with the sauce; follow package instructions closely.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste and tweak salt and pepper levels before serving to cater to your preference.
• Use fresh spices: Fresh herbs and spices will elevate flavors significantly; consider using them when possible.
• Reserve pasta water: Keep some pasta cooking water aside; it helps in achieving the desired sauce consistency.
• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.

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

Complementing your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta with thoughtful side dishes can enhance the meal. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables
   Toss seasonal veggies like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers in olive oil and roast until tender for a colorful side.
2. Quinoa Salad
   A light quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast.
3. Steamed Broccoli
   Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrition and a bit of crunch; season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots dressed in a tangy vinegar-based dressing complements the richness of the pasta.
5. Corn on the Cob
   Grilled or boiled corn on the cob brushed with olive oil provides sweetness to balance spicy flavors.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers
   Bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, and spices create an engaging presentation and additional heartiness to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!, there are a few common mistakes that can impact the dish’s flavor and texture. Here’s how to avoid them:

• Overcooking the Pasta: Ensure you cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Overcooked pasta can become mushy and affect the overall dish.
• Not Soaking Cashews Long Enough: For the best texture in your sauce, soak cashews for at least 30 minutes. If you’re pressed for time, simmering them for 10 minutes works too.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Adjust the seasoning to your taste. If it’s too bland, add more salt or spices. Always taste before serving.
• Skipping the Pasta Water: Reserve some pasta cooking water; it helps adjust the sauce’s consistency without losing flavor.
• Cooking Chicken on High Heat Only: While high heat is good for browning, it can also dry out chicken. Cook over medium-high heat and ensure it’s cooked through but juicy.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• To prevent freezer burn, make sure it’s tightly sealed.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm on low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally. Add water or broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

How can I make this recipe vegan?

You can easily make this dish vegan by replacing chicken with tofu or a plant-based protein of your choice.

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute any vegetables you like or have on hand. Zucchini or mushrooms work great as alternatives.

How do I adjust the spice level?

To control spice levels, simply adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or use milder Cajun seasoning. You can always add more after tasting.

What can I serve with Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!?

This pasta pairs well with a light salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free! is not only comforting but also versatile, making it perfect for any weeknight dinner. You can customize it by adding your favorite veggies or adjusting the spice level to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love its creamy texture and zesty flavors!