If you love a dish that perfectly marries creamy indulgence with bold, spicy flavors, then you are going to adore this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s a comforting, hearty meal where tender chicken meets a luscious cashew cream sauce infused with Cajun spices, creating a beautifully balanced dance of smoky heat and velvety texture that’s utterly irresistible. Plus, it’s dairy-free without sacrificing any richness, thanks to the magic of cashew cream teamed with coconut milk. Get ready to fall in love with pasta all over again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s where simplicity shines: a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients combine to deliver a knockout flavor and comforting texture in this dish. Each component plays a key role, from seasoning that brings the Cajun spirit alive to the creamy base that makes the pasta irresistibly smooth and satisfying.
- Raw cashews: Soaked to create a rich, dairy-free cream that elevates the sauce.
- Olive oil: For sautéing the chicken to juicy, flavorful perfection.
- Chicken breast: The protein star that becomes tender and perfectly spiced.
- Cajun seasoning: Brings the dish’s signature smoky, spicy kick.
- Garlic powder: Adds a deep, savory aroma that complements the Cajun spices.
- Onion powder: Enhances flavor complexity with subtle sweetness.
- Smoked paprika: Deepens smokiness and adds a beautiful reddish hue.
- Salt and black pepper: Balances and brightens all the flavors.
- Coconut milk: Works with cashews to create a creamy, silky sauce base.
- Vegetable broth: Adds depth and thins the sauce to just the right consistency.
- Pasta: Your favorite type, cooked al dente and ready to soak up the sauce.
- Lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness that cuts through the creaminess.
- Fresh parsley: For a fresh, vibrant garnish that brings it all together.
How to Make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Cashews
Begin by soaking your raw cashews in water for at least 30 minutes or even overnight if you can plan ahead. This softens them so they blend up into a beautifully smooth, creamy base for your sauce. This step might seem simple but trust me, it’s the secret to that luscious texture everyone loves.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, and cut your chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces while it warms. Once hot, add the chicken and cook for 7 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they’re browned and cooked through to juicy perfection.
Step 3: Season the Chicken
Sprinkle on your Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together in the skillet so every piece is coated with the deep, smoky blend of flavors that makes this recipe so exciting.
Step 4: Remove Chicken and Deglaze Skillet
Take the chicken out of the pan and set it aside. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth to the skillet to deglaze it, stirring to lift all those delicious browned bits from the bottom — this adds amazing flavor to your sauce.
Step 5: Blend the Cashew Cream Sauce
Add your soaked and drained cashews to the blender along with the coconut milk and broth mixture from the pan. Blend until the sauce is silky smooth, adjusting the thickness by adding more liquid if needed. This creamy sauce is the heart of your dish!
Step 6: Cook the Pasta
Get a large pot of salted water boiling and cook your pasta according to the package instructions until al dente, usually about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t forget to save about half a cup of the pasta water before draining; this comes in handy to perfect your sauce’s consistency later.
Step 7: Combine Pasta and Sauce
Bring your pasta back to the skillet with the cashew cream sauce, stirring well so every noodle gets coated in that dreamy, spicy creaminess. Then add the chicken back in, mixing gently to combine.
Step 8: Final Touches
If the sauce feels too thick, gently stir in some reserved pasta water until it’s just right. Squeeze in fresh lemon juice for a pop of brightness, then taste and adjust seasoning to your liking—maybe a little more Cajun seasoning or salt to make it perfect.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately while it’s hot, creamy, and absolutely irresistible.
How to Serve Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh parsley is the classic finishing touch, but feel free to sprinkle some chili flakes or a light drizzle of olive oil for extra heat and shine. A little extra lemon zest grated on top can also add a fragrant twist that brightens the whole dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
To round out this hearty pasta, consider a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to complement the creaminess. Steamed or roasted veggies like asparagus, broccoli, or green beans add freshness and color, making the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the pasta in individual shallow bowls rather than a traditional plate to highlight the sauce pooling underneath the noodles. Garnish with a lemon wedge on the side for guests to squeeze fresh juice if they desire. Pair it with a chilled white wine to elevate your dining experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your meal, any leftover Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Be sure to cool it down before sealing to keep the flavors fresh and the cream sauce silky.
Freezing
This pasta doesn’t freeze as well as when fresh because the creamy cashew sauce can separate. However, if you must freeze, store only the chicken and pasta separately from the sauce, thaw slowly in the refrigerator, then gently reheat and recombine for best results.
Reheating
When reheating, do so gently over low heat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of vegetable broth or a little reserved pasta water to revive the creamy texture, preventing the sauce from becoming too thick or clumpy.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of cashews in this recipe?
Cashews are ideal because they blend into an ultra-smooth, creamy sauce. Other nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts might work but may produce a grainier texture or different flavor. If you try substitutions, soak them overnight for the best creaminess.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The core recipe can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free pasta. Just be sure to check the ingredient labels on your Cajun seasoning and broth, as sometimes hidden gluten can sneak in.
How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this pasta?
It has a comfortable but noticeable kick. The blend of spices provides warmth without overwhelming heat, but you can always adjust the amount of Cajun seasoning to suit your spice tolerance.
Can I make the cashew cream sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the cashew cream sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. It may thicken slightly when chilled, so just stir in a little vegetable broth or coconut milk to loosen it back up before combining with pasta.
What type of pasta works best for this recipe?
Any pasta you love! Penne, fusilli, or fettuccine hold creamy sauces wonderfully well. Just make sure it’s cooked al dente to keep a nice bite and texture layered with the smooth sauce and tender chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe ticks all the boxes for a weeknight favorite with a twist — comforting, rich, bursting with flavor, and surprisingly simple to make. Once you try it, it will become your go-to for those days you want something special without fuss. Dive in, savor every creamy, spicy bite, and share the joy with friends and family!
Print
Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 25m
- Total Time: 0h 40m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Cajun
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a flavorful and creamy dish combining tender chicken seasoned with Cajun spices and a rich, dairy-free cashew cream sauce. The sauce is made by blending soaked cashews with coconut milk and vegetable broth, creating a luscious texture that coats perfectly al dente pasta. Enhanced with garlic, smoked paprika, and fresh parsley, this vibrant, hearty meal is perfect for those seeking a comforting yet wholesome pasta dish with a spicy Southern twist.
Ingredients
Cashew Cream Sauce
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 1/2 cup coconut milk
- 1 cup vegetable broth
Chicken and Seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta and Garnish
- 8 ounces pasta of choice
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Soak Cashews: Soak the raw cashews in water for at least 30 minutes or overnight to soften them, which will help create a smooth and creamy sauce.
- Heat Olive Oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil to warm up in preparation for cooking the chicken.
- Prepare Chicken: While waiting for the oil to heat, cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.
- Cook Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the heated skillet and cook for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally until they are browned and thoroughly cooked.
- Season Chicken: Sprinkle the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper over the chicken, stirring well to coat the pieces evenly.
- Remove Chicken: Once fully cooked and seasoned, transfer the chicken from the skillet to a plate and set aside.
- Deglaze Pan: In the same skillet, pour in the coconut milk and vegetable broth, stirring to loosen any browned bits from the pan to enrich the sauce.
- Blend Cashew Cream: Add the soaked and drained cashews to a blender along with the coconut milk and broth mixture from the skillet.
- Blend Until Smooth: Blend all ingredients until completely smooth, adjusting the consistency with more coconut milk or broth if necessary to achieve a creamy sauce.
- Boil Pasta Water: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, preparing for cooking the pasta.
- Cook Pasta: Add the pasta to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions (8-10 minutes) until al dente.
- Drain Pasta: Reserve about 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the remaining water from the pasta using a colander.
- Combine Pasta and Sauce: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the cashew cream sauce, stirring to coat the pasta thoroughly.
- Add Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the pasta and sauce, mixing well to combine all components.
- Adjust Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add some of the reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired creaminess.
- Add Lemon Juice: Squeeze in the lemon juice and stir until it is evenly incorporated into the pasta.
- Season to Taste: Taste the dish and add extra salt, pepper, or Cajun seasoning as needed to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish: Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the pasta just before serving for a fresh, vibrant touch.
- Serve: Serve the pasta immediately while hot and creamy to enjoy the best textures and flavors.
Notes
- Soaking cashews overnight yields the creamiest sauce but a minimum of 30 minutes is sufficient for quicker preparation.
- Feel free to use gluten-free pasta to make this dish gluten-free.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning according to your spice tolerance for a milder or spicier dish.
- Reserved pasta water helps to thin the sauce without diluting flavor, so add gradually.
- This recipe is dairy-free and can be vegan if chicken is substituted with a plant-based protein.
