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Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

Creamy Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta You’ll Crave!

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, gluten-free, and dairy-free dish, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Chicken
Cuisine: Cajun
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 12 ounces gluten-free pasta Use a brand like Jovial’s brown rice penne for a great texture.
For the Protein
  • 1 pound chicken breast Season with Cajun spices for a flavorful kick; substitute with tofu for a vegan option.
For the Sauce
  • 1 cup cashews Soak beforehand for a creamy texture in the sauce.
  • 1 cup vegetable broth Thins out the sauce; can be replaced with water or nut milk if needed.
  • 2 tablespoons nutritional yeast Optional, but it adds a delightful cheesy flavor.
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil Ideal for sautéing but can be swapped for avocado oil for high heat.
For the Veggies
  • 1 onion Adds sweetness; sauté until tender for depth of flavor.
  • 1 bell peppers Use colorful varieties or swap with zucchini or asparagus for a different twist.
  • 2 cloves garlic Freshly minced for an aromatic boost.
For the Flavor
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste A rich base that enhances the sauce's depth.
  • 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning The core flavoring; adjust with cayenne for extra heat.
  • 1 teaspoon salt Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
  • 1 teaspoon pepper Essential for bringing all the flavors together.

Equipment

  • Pot
  • skillet
  • Blender

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil over high heat. Add your gluten-free pasta, stirring occasionally, and cook according to package instructions, typically about 8–10 minutes until al dente. Once cooked, reserve ¾ cup of the pasta water before draining the pasta and setting it aside in a large bowl.
  2. In a small mixing bowl, combine onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and optional cayenne for a spicy kick. Mix well until blended, ensuring your Cajun seasoning is ready.
  3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Season your chicken breast generously with Cajun seasoning, then add to the skillet. Sauté for about 7–10 minutes, flipping once, until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest.
  4. In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of olive oil, then toss in the chopped onions, bell peppers, and minced garlic. Sauté the mixture for 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently until the veggies are tender and fragrant.
  5. In a high-speed blender, combine the soaked and drained cashews, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper. Blend for about 2 minutes until the mixture is completely smooth and creamy.
  6. Return the skillet to medium heat and add the drained pasta and sliced chicken back into the pan with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the cashew cream, and stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Let it simmer for about 3–5 minutes, adding reserved pasta water as needed to reach your desired sauce consistency.
  7. Once everything is heated through, taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve warm, garnishing with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 60gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gPolyunsaturated Fat: 6gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 200IUVitamin C: 50mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Ensure you soak the cashews for at least 1 hour for a smooth and creamy sauce. Use a meat thermometer to check chicken's internal temperature, which should be 165°F. Adjust cayenne pepper according to spice preference.

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