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Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta: Comfort Food Redefined

This Dairy-Free Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta offers a quick, wholesome dish bursting with flavor, gluten-free, vegan-friendly options, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 oz Gluten-free pasta Use brown rice penne for best texture.
For the Protein
  • 1 lb Chicken breast Substitute with tofu or chickpeas for a vegan option.
For Cooking
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil Can use avocado oil as an alternative.
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion
  • 1 cup Bell peppers Use any color you prefer.
  • 3 cloves Garlic
For the Sauce
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 3 tbsp Cajun seasoning Add cayenne for extra spice if desired.
  • 1 cup Cashews Substitution options: full fat oat milk can be used for nut allergies.
  • 1 cup Nutritional yeast Adds a cheesy flavor element.
  • 1 cup Vegetable broth Chicken broth can be used instead if not vegan.
For Seasoning
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1 tsp Pepper

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • blender
  • Small Bowl

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add gluten-free pasta and cook according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes, until al dente. Reserve 3/4 cup of pasta water before draining.
  2. In a small bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and cayenne pepper. Set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken breast pieces. Cook, about 5-7 minutes, until browned and cooked through. Remove from skillet.
  4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil if needed, toss in chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes until onions are translucent and peppers are tender.
  5. Stir in tomato paste and remaining Cajun seasoning. Cook for 2-3 minutes until aromatic. In a blender, combine soaked cashews, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  6. Return skillet to medium heat, add cooked pasta and sautéed chicken. Pour in cashew cream sauce, stirring to combine. Gradually add reserved pasta water for desired sauce consistency.
  7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 4gSugar: 6gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 4mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Soak cashews for at least 2 hours before blending for creaminess. Always taste-test and adjust seasoning before serving. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

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