Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Perfect for family dinners, date nights, or meal prep, this dish stands out with its creamy cashew sauce and bold Cajun flavors. It’s a comforting yet healthy option that everyone will love, making it ideal for various occasions.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Cashew Cream Sauce:
• Pasta & Chicken:
• Spice Blend (or use 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning):
• To Serve:
• How to Make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Step 1: Soak the Cashews
• Step 2: Cook the Pasta
• Step 3: Make the Cajun Spice Mix
• Step 4: Cook the Chicken
• Step 5: Sauté Veggies
• Step 6: Add Tomato Paste and Spices
• Step 7: Make the Cashew Cream
• Step 8: Combine and Simmer
• Step 9: Serve
• How to Serve Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with a Side Salad
• Add Extra Protein
• Serve with Crusty Bread
• How to Perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Best Side Dishes for Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta vegan?
• How spicy is Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?
• What type of gluten-free pasta works best?
• How do I customize my Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?
• Is this recipe kid-friendly?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Dairy-Free Delight: Enjoy a creamy pasta without the dairy! The cashew cream sauce offers richness while keeping it light.
• Gluten-Free Option: Using gluten-free pasta makes this dish accessible for those with dietary restrictions.
• Quick and Easy: With only one pan required, cleanup is a breeze. The entire dish comes together in about 35 minutes!
• Flavor-Packed: Bold Cajun spices add a zesty kick that elevates the chicken and pasta to new heights.
• Versatile Base: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste preferences.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this delicious dish, you’ll need a few essential tools that will help simplify the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Skillet
• Blender
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling the pasta to al dente perfection.
• Skillet: Used for sautéing chicken and veggies, giving them the perfect sear.
• Blender: Crucial for creating the smooth and creamy cashew sauce that brings everything together.

Ingredients

Cashew Cream Sauce:

• ¾ cup raw cashews (soaked in boiling water for 30–60 minutes or simmered for 10 minutes)
• 1½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Pasta & Chicken:

• 12 ounces gluten-free pasta (any shape)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• ½ small yellow onion, finely diced
• ½ large red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ large yellow or orange bell pepper, thinly sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, chopped
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Spice Blend (or use 2 tablespoons Cajun 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)

To Serve:

• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

How to Make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Soak raw cashews in just-boiled water for 30–60 minutes. For a quicker option, simmer them on the stovetop for about 10 minutes until soft.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gluten-free pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ¾ cup of the pasta water before draining and setting aside.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Spice Mix

In a small bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and cayenne (if using). Set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces; season with 1 teaspoon of the Cajun spice mix. Sear until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.

Step 5: Sauté Veggies

In the same skillet, add remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Sauté onion, bell peppers, and garlic for about 3–4 minutes until softened. If necessary, deglaze with a splash of water to release browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Step 6: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in tomato paste along with remaining spice mix. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant; remove from heat.

Step 7: Make the Cashew Cream

Drain soaked cashews and blend with broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper on high speed until smooth and creamy.

Step 8: Combine and Simmer

Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta, chicken, and cashew cream. Stir well to combine; bring to a simmer. Use reserved pasta water (or extra broth) to thin sauce as needed. Simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes until heated through.

Step 9: Serve

Taste your dish; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.

Enjoy your delightful Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, full of flavor without compromising on health!

How to Serve Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is not only delicious but also versatile. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh parsley: Chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness that balances the rich flavors.
• Chives: Finely chopped chives can provide a mild onion flavor that complements the dish beautifully.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed greens salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast.
• Caesar salad: A dairy-free Caesar salad will add crunch and a zesty kick to your meal.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled shrimp: For seafood lovers, topping the pasta with grilled shrimp can elevate the dish’s flavor.
• Tofu cubes: For a plant-based option, sautéed tofu cubes can provide an additional protein source.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: A slice of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
• Crusty baguette: A crusty baguette can be served on the side for dipping and adds a satisfying texture.

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How to Perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

Perfecting your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta takes just a few tips to ensure every bite is delightful.

• Soak cashews properly: Ensure cashews are soaked long enough for maximum creaminess in your sauce.
• Use fresh spices: Freshly ground spices will enhance the flavor profile of the Cajun seasoning significantly.
• Adjust seasoning gradually: Taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning, allowing you to find the perfect balance.
• Cook pasta al dente: Cooking pasta slightly under helps it absorb flavors without becoming mushy when combined with the sauce.
• Reserve pasta water: This starchy water helps adjust the sauce consistency while adding flavor and creaminess.
• Don’t skip the deglazing step: Deglazing with water after sautéing vegetables captures all those delicious browned bits for added richness.

Best Side Dishes for Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

Pairing your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options:

1. Garlic Roasted Broccoli: Roasting broccoli with garlic brings out its natural sweetness and adds crunch.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies can provide extra nutrients and textures.
3. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles offer a low-carb alternative that pairs well with creamy sauces.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob complements the spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine beautifully.
5. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness and crunch, making them a perfect match for this dish.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can provide refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the pasta.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta even better.

• Skipping the cashew soaking: Not soaking the cashews properly can lead to a gritty texture. Soak them for at least 30 minutes or simmer for 10 minutes to ensure creaminess.
• Overcooking the pasta: Cooking pasta too long can result in a mushy dish. Follow package instructions carefully and aim for al dente.
• Neglecting the spice blend: Forgetting to season your chicken and veggies with the spice mix can make your dish bland. Be sure to evenly coat everything for maximum flavor.
• Not reserving pasta water: Failing to save some pasta water means you may end up with a dry sauce. Always reserve a bit before draining for that perfect consistency.
• Using unseasoned broth: Using plain broth instead of seasoned can dull the flavors. Opt for chicken or vegetable broth with added herbs and spices for depth.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• • Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
• • Container: Use glass or plastic containers with tight-fitting lids.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

• • Duration: Freezing is not recommended due to potential texture changes.
• • Container: If you choose to freeze, use freezer-safe bags or containers, but be aware of quality loss.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place pasta in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer portions to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Add a splash of broth or nut milk to a skillet over low heat. Stir gently until heated, adding more liquid as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta.

Can I make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta vegan?

Yes, simply replace chicken with tofu or chickpeas, and ensure your broth is vegetable-based.

How spicy is Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?

The spice level depends on how much cayenne pepper you use. Adjust according to your preference!

What type of gluten-free pasta works best?

Any shape works well; however, penne or fusilli holds the sauce nicely.

How do I customize my Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add veggies like spinach or zucchini, or substitute different proteins like shrimp or sausage.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It has creamy flavors that kids love. You can reduce the spice if necessary.

Final Thoughts

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is not just delicious; it’s also versatile! You can customize it with various proteins and veggies to suit your taste. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight meal or something special, this recipe delivers on flavor while being healthy and dairy-free. Give it a try today!