Description
Indulge in the creamy goodness of Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta, a delightful twist on a classic favorite that’s both dairy-free and gluten-free. This one-pan dish combines succulent chicken, zesty Cajun spices, and a luscious cashew cream sauce that elevates every bite. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it packs bold flavors while being quick and easy to prepare. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or impressing guests, this comforting pasta is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
Scale
- ¾ cup raw cashews
- 1½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 12 ounces gluten-free pasta
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 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
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 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)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Soak the cashews in boiling water for 30–60 minutes or simmer for 10 minutes until soft.
- Cook gluten-free pasta according to package instructions; reserve some pasta water before draining.
- In a bowl, mix the Cajun spice blend.
- Sear chicken in a skillet with olive oil, then set aside.
- Sauté onions and bell peppers until softened, deglazing as needed.
- Stir in tomato paste and remaining spices; cook briefly.
- Blend soaked cashews with broth and seasonings until smooth.
- Combine everything in the skillet; add reserved pasta water as needed and simmer briefly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 85mg