Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful dish that combines comfort and health in every bite. With its creamy texture, zesty flavor, and the bold kick of Cajun spices, this pasta is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or looking for a quick weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress. Plus, it’s completely dairy-free and gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cashew Cream Sauce
• For the Pasta & Chicken
• For the Spice Blend (or use 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning)
• For Garnish
• 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
• Serve with Crusty Bread
• Add Extra Protein
• 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
• What makes Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta dairy-free?
• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
• How can I customize my Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?
• Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
• What spices are essential in this recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Deliciously Creamy: The cashew cream sauce adds a rich and velvety texture without any dairy.
• Flavor-Packed: With bold Cajun spices, each bite bursts with flavor and warmth.
• Quick & Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the spice levels to your taste.
• Healthy Twist: Enjoy a comforting meal that’s lighter and packed with nutrition.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. These will help you create your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Large skillet
• Blender or food processor
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling pasta evenly while ensuring it cooks perfectly al dente.
• Blender or food processor: Creates a smooth cashew cream sauce that gives the dish its signature creaminess.

Ingredients

For the 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

For the 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

For the 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)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Soak the Cashews

Cover raw cashews with just-boiled water and soak for 30–60 minutes. If you’re short on time, 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 pasta according to package instructions. Reserve ¾ cup of pasta water before draining; set the pasta aside.

Step 3: Make the Cajun Spice Mix

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

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

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

Step 5: Sauté Veggies

In the same skillet, add the 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 any browned bits from the pan.

Step 6: Add Tomato Paste and Spices

Stir in tomato paste along with the remaining spice mix. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant and deepen in color. Remove from heat.

Step 7: Make the Cashew Cream

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

Step 8: Combine and Simmer

Return skillet to medium-low heat. Add cooked pasta back into the skillet along with chicken pieces and cashew cream. Stir everything together until well combined. Use reserved pasta water (or broth) to achieve your desired sauce consistency. Simmer for an additional 1–2 minutes until warmed through.

Step 9: Serve

Taste your dish and adjust seasoning if necessary with more salt or pepper. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired before serving warm.

How to Serve Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

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

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and a burst of freshness.
• Green onions: Sliced green onions provide a mild onion flavor that complements the dish.

Pair with a Side Salad

• Mixed greens: A simple salad with arugula, spinach, and vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch.
• Caesar salad: The creamy dressing pairs well with the rich cashew cream sauce.

Serve with Crusty Bread

• Garlic bread: Toasted garlic bread is perfect for mopping up the delicious cashew cream sauce.
• French baguette: Slice and serve with olive oil for dipping, enhancing the meal’s flavors.

Add Extra Protein

• Grilled shrimp: Top the pasta with grilled shrimp for an added protein boost and seafood flair.
• Sautéed tofu: For a plant-based option, sauté tofu cubes seasoned with Cajun spices.

How to Perfect Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

To ensure your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak cashews thoroughly: Properly soaking cashews makes them blend smoother for creamier sauce.
• Adjust spice levels: Taste the spices before adding them to find your preferred heat level—add more cayenne if you like it spicy!
• Reserve pasta water: Keep some pasta water handy to adjust the sauce consistency without losing flavor.
• Cook chicken evenly: Ensure all chicken pieces are cut uniformly for even cooking and tenderness.
• Don’t overcook veggies: Sauté vegetables just until soft to maintain their texture and vibrant colors.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes helps flavors meld together beautifully.

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Best Side Dishes for Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

Pairing side dishes with your Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement this flavorful dish.

1. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies roasted with olive oil and herbs add a delightful contrast in texture.
2. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with lemon and herbs provides freshness and nutty flavor.
3. Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli adds nutrients and balances the richness of the pasta.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunchiness that pairs well with creamy pasta dishes.
5. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings sweetness that enhances the Cajun spices.
6. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness complements the spiciness of the dish perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Incorrect cashew soaking time: Soaking cashews for too little or too long can affect the texture of the cream. Aim for 30–60 minutes in boiling water or simmer for 10 minutes.
• Overcooking the pasta: Overcooked pasta can become mushy and lose its texture. Always follow package instructions and check for al dente doneness.
• Not seasoning enough: A bland dish can ruin your meal. Ensure you season the chicken and vegetables adequately with the Cajun spice mix.
• Skipping the deglazing step: Not deglazing the pan after cooking chicken can lead to lost flavors. Use a splash of water to release those tasty browned bits.
• Using too little broth in cashew cream: Insufficient broth can result in a thick sauce that doesn’t coat the pasta well. Adjust the liquid until you reach your preferred consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 4–5 days.

Freezing Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Freezing is not recommended as it may change texture upon reheating.
• If you do freeze, use a freezer-safe container and consume within 1 month.

Reheating Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm covered for about 15-20 minutes, adding broth as needed.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated through. Add a splash of broth or nut milk if necessary.
• Stovetop: Gently reheat on medium-low heat, stirring frequently and adding broth or nut milk to loosen.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta dairy-free?

Cashew cream serves as a rich alternative to traditional dairy products, providing creaminess without lactose.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just use gluten-free pasta, which is easy to find in most stores.

How can I customize my Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or swap chicken for shrimp or tofu for different flavor profiles.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish stores well in the refrigerator, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping.

What spices are essential in this recipe?

The key spices include onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and oregano, which contribute to its Cajun flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful blend of flavors that caters to both comfort food lovers and those seeking healthier options. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various proteins and veggies. Try it today and enjoy a creamy yet lightened-up dinner!