If you’re looking for a dish that bursts with bold flavors yet remains irresistibly creamy and comforting, you have to try this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of tender, spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken swimming in a luscious cashew cream sauce, tossed with perfectly cooked pasta and colorful bell peppers. This recipe delivers all the richness and warmth of traditional creamy pasta but in a dairy-free, wholesome way that’s incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special meal to impress friends, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe lies in its simple yet thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a role, from the fragrant Cajun seasoning that provides a spicy kick to the creamy cashew base that creates a silky, dreamy sauce. Fresh bell peppers add a sweet crunch and vibrant color, while the garlic and herbs round out the flavor profile perfectly.
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta: Choose your favorite shape to hold the creamy sauce and tender chicken.
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast: Thinly sliced for quick cooking and perfect bite-sized pieces.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (divided): This brings the smoky, spicy Southern flair that defines the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Adds a sweet, crisp contrast and beautiful color.
- 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced): Provides a mild sweetness and brightens the plate.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Essential for depth and aroma.
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened cashew cream: Creates a creamy, dairy-free sauce base with subtle nutty richness.
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth: Balances the sauce with a savory note and perfect consistency.
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional): Adds a slight cheesy flavor for extra umami.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: To bring the flavors into perfect harmony.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Brightens the dish with a fresh, herbal finish.
How to Make Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Step 1: Cook Pasta and Prepare Chicken
Start by cooking your pasta according to the package instructions until it’s perfectly al dente—just tender enough to provide bite but not mushy. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside to keep warm. While the pasta cooks, toss the chicken strips in 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning to ensure every bite is flavored through.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the seasoned chicken strips and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to get that beautiful golden brown crust. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes until thoroughly cooked. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside so you can cook the veggies next without overcooking the meat.
Step 3: Sauté the Bell Peppers and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the colorful red and yellow bell peppers. Sauté them for 3–4 minutes until they soften but still retain some crunch—that fresh texture is so important. Then, add the minced garlic and cook it with the peppers for about one minute. This releases the garlic’s wonderful aroma and flavors the entire dish beautifully.
Step 4: Create the Cashew Cream Sauce
Lower the heat to medium and pour in the unsweetened cashew cream along with the chicken broth. Stir to combine and then sprinkle in the remaining tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and nutritional yeast if you’re using it. Let the sauce gently simmer for 3–4 minutes until it thickens slightly into a luscious, creamy coating that will cling to your pasta and chicken.
Step 5: Combine Chicken, Pasta, and Sauce
Return the cooked chicken and drained pasta to the skillet. Toss everything together so the sauce evenly coats all components. Take a moment now to taste and adjust with salt and pepper to your liking. This final melding step is where the dish truly comes together—creamy, spicy, and hearty all at once.
How to Serve Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley generously over the finished pasta for a burst of color and fresh, herbaceous brightness. The parsley isn’t just for looks—it adds a lovely lift to the rich, creamy sauce and enhances the overall flavor experience.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with crisp, simple sides. Think a fresh green salad with vinaigrette or some roasted asparagus for a light vegetable complement. Crusty bread or garlic bread on the side also works beautifully to soak up every last bit of that decadent cashew cream sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a family dinner, serve this pasta straight from the skillet for a cozy, rustic feel. If you’re entertaining, plate it elegantly with a small mound of pasta, chicken strips arranged on top, garnished with parsley and a light drizzle of olive oil. Adding a wedge of lemon on the side allows guests to add a bright citrus twist if they wish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making the next-day meal just as enjoyable. Just be sure to stir well before reheating to bring the creaminess back.
Freezing
While freezing this pasta isn’t ideal because the texture of the pasta and peppers can change, you can freeze only the cooked chicken and sauce separately for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stove, then toss with freshly cooked pasta for best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the leftovers in a skillet over low to medium heat, stirring frequently and adding a splash of chicken broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. This will help restore the creamy consistency without drying out the chicken or pasta.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! While fettuccine or linguine work wonderfully with this creamy sauce, penne, rigatoni, or even gluten-free pasta can be great options too. Just make sure to cook them al dente for the best texture.
Is there a substitute for cashew cream?
You can swap cashew cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based heavy cream alternative. Each will give the sauce a slightly different flavor but maintain the creamy, indulgent texture.
How spicy is the Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe?
It has a moderate level of spice from the Cajun seasoning, which is warming but not overwhelming. If you like it spicier, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
To make it vegan, substitute the chicken with tofu or your favorite plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The cashew cream base remains the same, making it creamy and delicious.
How do I ensure the chicken stays tender?
Slice the chicken thinly and avoid overcrowding the pan so it sears quickly instead of steaming. Cooking over medium-high heat and not overcooking will keep the chicken juicy and tender.
Final Thoughts
This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe has become one of my absolute go-to meals when craving something creamy, flavorful, and just a little bit spicy. It’s comforting without feeling heavy and comes together so easily with ingredients you can find at any grocery store. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this dish as much as I do—it’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug on a plate every time.
Print
Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Cashew Cream Cajun Chicken Pasta is a creamy, flavorful dish combining tender Cajun-seasoned chicken strips, colorful bell peppers, and a rich dairy-free cashew cream sauce tossed with al dente fettuccine or linguine. Perfect for those craving a spicy, comforting American main course with a healthy twist.
Ingredients
Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
Chicken
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, sliced into strips
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning, divided
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce
- 1 1/2 cups unsweetened cashew cream
- 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Cook Pasta: Boil the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and set aside to keep warm.
- Season Chicken: In a large bowl, toss the chicken strips with 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning until evenly coated.
- Cook Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken and cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté Peppers: In the same skillet, add the sliced red and yellow bell peppers. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Prepare Sauce: Reduce heat to medium. Pour in the cashew cream and chicken broth. Stir in the remaining 1 tablespoon of Cajun seasoning and nutritional yeast, if using. Let the sauce simmer for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
- Combine Pasta and Chicken: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and add the drained pasta. Toss everything together thoroughly, ensuring the pasta is evenly coated with the creamy Cajun sauce.
- Season & Garnish: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute the cashew cream with full-fat coconut milk or a plant-based heavy cream alternative for a similar creamy texture.
- For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the Cajun seasoning.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
