Easy Dairy Free Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

The aroma of smoky paprika and garlic simmering on the stove just screams comfort food in my Texas kitchen, especially on a chilly evening. This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is one of those dishes that makes everyone happy – even my picky eaters! I’ve been perfecting this recipe for years, tweaking the spices and cashew cream until it’s just right. I promise, you’re going to have a creamy, flavorful, and dairy-free pasta dish that the whole family will devour.

Why This Recipe Works

As a busy mom, I need recipes that are quick, easy, and satisfying. This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta ticks all the boxes! Here’s why it’s a winner in my book:

• Quick Weeknight Meal: From start to finish, you can have this on the table in under 40 minutes.
• Kid-Approved: The creamy sauce and flavorful chicken are a hit with kids of all ages. You can easily adjust the spice level for sensitive palates.
• Dairy-Free Delight: Perfect for those with dairy sensitivities or allergies, this recipe uses a creamy cashew-based sauce that’s unbelievably rich and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 pound pasta (penne, rotini, or fettuccine work well)
• 1 cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for at least 30 minutes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Ingredient Notes:

Cajun Seasoning: Use your favorite store-bought blend or make your own! The spice level can vary, so start with 1 tablespoon and add more to taste.
Cashews: Soaking the cashews is crucial for a creamy sauce. Don’t skip this step! If you’re in a hurry, boil them for 10 minutes instead.
Nutritional Yeast: This adds a cheesy flavor to the sauce without any dairy. You can find it in the health food section of most grocery stores or online. If you don’t have it, you can omit it, but it does add a nice depth of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to get cooking? Here’s how to make this delicious Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta:

1. Step 1: Cook the Chicken. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2. Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Add the bell peppers and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until slightly tender.
3. Step 3: Add the Spices. Stir in the Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using) into the vegetables. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This will really bloom the flavors of the spices!
4. Step 4: Cook the Pasta. While the vegetables are cooking, cook the pasta according to package directions. Drain and set aside. Remember to reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, just in case the sauce needs thinning later.
5. Step 5: Make the Cashew Cream. Drain the soaked cashews and add them to a high-speed blender along with the vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, and lemon juice. Blend until smooth and creamy. You might need to scrape down the sides of the blender a few times to ensure everything is well combined.
6. Step 6: Combine Everything. Pour the cashew cream sauce into the skillet with the vegetables. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened. If the sauce is too thick, add a little of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.
7. Step 7: Add the Chicken and Pasta. Add the cooked chicken and pasta to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat everything evenly.
8. Step 8: Serve. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve immediately.

Storage & Meal Prep

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is great for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers. Here’s how to store it:

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop over medium heat. Add a splash of vegetable broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.
• Make-Ahead: You can cook the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. The cashew cream can also be made a day in advance. Just combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

Substitutions & Variations

Want to customize this recipe? Here are a few ideas:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free pasta to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for grilled tofu or tempeh.
• Spicier: Add more cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Different Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach.
• Different Protein: Try using shrimp or sausage instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the cashew cream and cook the chicken and veggies a day or two in advance. Store them separately in the fridge, then combine everything when you’re ready to serve. The flavors actually meld together beautifully overnight!

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should be opaque throughout and have an internal temperature of 165°F. I always use a meat thermometer to be sure.

Can I use a different type of pasta?

Absolutely! Penne, rotini, fettuccine, and even elbow macaroni all work well in this recipe. Choose your favorite!

Can I freeze this pasta?

While you can freeze it, the texture of the cashew cream sauce might change slightly upon thawing. If you do freeze it, let it thaw completely in the refrigerator before reheating.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the amount of Cajun seasoning or omit the cayenne pepper if your kids are sensitive to spice. You can also serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or carrots for a complete meal.

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta has become a staple in our home, and I know it will be in yours too! It’s a quick, easy, and delicious way to get a comforting meal on the table, even on the busiest weeknights. Give it a try and let me know what you think in the comments below! I love hearing about your variations and tweaks.

If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of the other family-friendly meals on FamiliesRecipes.com, or sign up for my newsletter to get new recipes delivered straight to your inbox. Happy cooking, y’all!

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