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Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta

Dairy-Free Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta You’ll Love

This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a delightful, dairy-free twist on comfort food that’s quick to prepare, perfect for a weeknight meal.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450

Ingredients
  

For the Pasta
  • 8 ounces Gluten-Free Brown Rice Penne Use for best texture
For the Protein
  • 1 pound Chicken Breast Substitute with tofu if desired
For the Cashew Cream Sauce
  • 1 cup Cashews Soak beforehand for a smoother texture
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil Use for sautéing
  • nutritional yeast 1/4 cup Adds cheesy flavor
For the Vegetables
  • 1 medium Onion Yellow or red is preferred
  • 1 medium Bell Pepper Mix colors based on preference
  • 2 cloves Garlic Fresh garlic recommended
For the Sauce
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Provides richness
  • 2 tablespoons Cajun Seasoning Adjust based on heat preference
  • 1 cup Vegetarian or Chicken Broth Substitute with water if lighter option desired
  • Salt To taste
  • Pepper To taste

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Skillet
  • blender
  • Small bowl

Method
 

Cooking Steps
  1. Boil a large pot of salted water and cook gluten-free brown rice penne according to package instructions, about 8-10 minutes. Drain and reserve pasta water.
  2. In a small bowl, create Cajun spice mix with onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, paprika, thyme, and cayenne.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, add seasoned chicken, and cook for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, add more olive oil and sauté diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic for about 4-5 minutes until tender.
  5. Stir in tomato paste and remaining Cajun seasoning, cooking for 2-3 minutes until aromatic.
  6. Blend soaked cashews, broth, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
  7. Return chicken to skillet, add drained pasta, and pour over cashew cream sauce. Toss over low heat for 3-5 minutes.
  8. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 25gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 400mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 6gSugar: 4gVitamin A: 1000IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Soak cashews for a smoother texture and adjust the heat in spices as preferred. Best enjoyed fresh but can store in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.

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