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 food. Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish is creamy, flavorful, and can easily accommodate various dietary preferences. Enjoy the zesty Cajun flavor while keeping it wholesome and light.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creamy Delight: The cashew cream adds a rich texture without dairy, making it perfect for those avoiding lactose.
• Quick Preparation: With just 35 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is ideal for busy nights.
• Flavor Packed: A blend of spices and fresh veggies brings a vibrant taste that will satisfy your cravings.
• Versatile Options: Easily adaptable for vegan diets or when using leftover chicken.
• Family Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this hearty pasta dish that feels indulgent but is actually quite healthy.

Tools and Preparation

To create this delicious meal, you’ll need to gather a few essential tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Blender
• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Blender: Essential for creating the smooth cashew cream sauce that gives the dish its creamy texture.
• Large skillet: Provides ample space to cook the chicken and sauté the vegetables evenly.
• Pot for boiling pasta: Ensures your gluten-free pasta is cooked perfectly without sticking together.

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

• Option 1:
• 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)

• Option 2:

• OR use 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning

Garnish

• Parsley (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 short on time, simmer them on the stove top 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 the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Reserve about 3/4 cup of cooking water before draining and setting aside.

Step 3: Prepare Spices

In a small bowl, mix together all the dried spices (or Cajun seasoning if using) until well combined.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet. Add chicken pieces seasoned with the spice mix. Cook until browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Vegetables

Add remaining olive oil to the skillet along with diced onion, bell peppers, and chopped garlic. Sauté until tender (about 3-4 minutes). If needed, add water to deglaze any brown bits stuck at the bottom.

Step 6: Add Tomato Paste

Stir in tomato paste and remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for another minute until fragrant before removing from heat while you make the sauce.

Step 7: Blend Cashew Cream

Drain soaked cashews and add them to a blender with broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Blend on high 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 well while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. Allow everything to simmer together briefly.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

As it simmers, gradually add reserved pasta water until desired sauce consistency is reached. You can also use additional broth or water if necessary.

Step 10: Serve

Season with extra salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving hot!

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 a delightful experience that can be enhanced with simple yet effective presentation ideas. Here are some creative ways to serve this flavorful dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley or Cilantro: Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a fresh burst of flavor and color.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives add a mild onion-like flavor that complements the pasta beautifully.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed Greens: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the creamy pasta.
• Caesar Salad: A dairy-free Caesar salad can add crunch and zest, making it a perfect companion.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread can enhance the meal with its rich flavors, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
• Gluten-Free Rolls: Soft gluten-free rolls are an excellent option for those looking for a gluten-free accompaniment.

Offer Additional Spices

• Cajun Seasoning: Provide extra Cajun seasoning on the side for those who love an added kick of spice.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For more heat, red pepper flakes can be sprinkled over individual servings according to taste.

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

Perfecting your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta can elevate your cooking skills and impress your guests. Here are some tips to achieve the best results.

• Soak Cashews Properly: Ensure you soak the cashews long enough for them to blend smoothly into cream. This enhances the texture of your sauce.
• Use Quality Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality spices will significantly impact the overall flavor of your dish.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, gradually add reserved pasta water or broth until you reach your desired consistency.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish at different stages of cooking to adjust seasonings and ensure balanced flavors.
• Mix Up Your Veggies: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and variety.
• Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the pasta to sit for a few minutes before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.

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

Complementing your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta with the right side dishes enhances the meal experience. Here are some excellent options:

1. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds crunch and vibrant color; drizzle with lemon juice for extra zest.
2. Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until crispy for a flavorful side dish.
3. Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad mixed with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance to the creamy pasta.
4. Grilled Asparagus: Simply grilled asparagus seasoned with salt and pepper provides a deliciously smoky flavor that pairs well with Cajun spices.
5. Balsamic Glazed Carrots: Sauté carrots in balsamic vinegar for a sweet and tangy side that complements the richness of the pasta.
6. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn on the cob can be brushed with olive oil or dairy-free butter for an easy summer treat.
7. Cucumber Tomato Salad: Combine sliced cucumbers and tomatoes in a light dressing; it’s refreshing and offsets the creamy dish nicely.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, it’s easy to overlook some details that can affect the final dish. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the cashew soaking: Failing to soak the cashews properly can result in a gritty sauce. Make sure to soak them for at least 30 minutes for a smooth cream.

• Not reserving pasta water: Forgetting to save pasta cooking water can limit your ability to adjust the sauce’s consistency. Always keep some on hand for a creamier finish.

• Overcooking the chicken: Overcooked chicken becomes dry and tough. Cook just until it’s no longer pink and remove it from heat promptly.

• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient varies in flavor intensity, so taste as you go. Adjust salt and pepper according to your preference for the perfect balance.

• Rushing the blending process: Not blending the sauce long enough can leave it chunky. Blend until super smooth for that creamy texture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Place in a freezer-safe container, leaving space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta – Dairy Free!

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium-low heat, adding water or broth if needed for moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! To make it vegan, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What can I substitute instead of cashews?

If you’re allergic to nuts, try using sunflower seeds or tahini blended with water as an alternative cream base.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level can be adjusted by varying the amount of cayenne or Cajun seasoning used. Start with less if you prefer a milder flavor.

Can I use regular pasta instead of gluten-free?

Absolutely! Feel free to use any pasta type you enjoy; just adjust cooking times according to package instructions.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Final Thoughts

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta offers a delightful blend of flavors while being both dairy-free and gluten-free. It’s versatile enough to adapt by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. Give this creamy dish a try—it’s perfect for busy weeknights and sure to impress!