For those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, finding a creamy and flavorful chicken pasta dish can be a challenge. But worry not, because we’ve got you covered with this delectable dairy-free chicken pasta recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, al dente pasta, and a creamy dairy-free sauce that will tantalize your taste buds without compromising your dietary restrictions.
This recipe is not only dairy-free but also incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal time and effort. You can whip up this delicious pasta dish in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. The rich and creamy sauce is made with a cashew cream base, providing a velvety texture without any dairy ingredients.
Whether you’re lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking to expand your culinary horizons, this dairy-free chicken pasta recipe is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to indulge in a creamy and satisfying pasta dish that will leave you feeling happy and fulfilled.
Ingredients and Equipment
For the Pasta:
- 1 pound of your favorite pasta
- Salt for boiling the pasta
For the Dairy-Free Sauce:
- 1 cup raw cashews, soaked for at least 4 hours or overnight
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
li>Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large pot for boiling the pasta
- Blender
- Skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Dairy-Free Chicken Pasta
Cook the Pasta:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the pasta and cook according to the package instructions.
- Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Make the Dairy-Free Sauce:
- Drain the cashews and rinse them well.
- In a blender, combine the cashews, vegetable broth, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, onion powder, and garlic powder.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, adding more as needed.
Cook the Chicken:
- Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper.
- Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until golden brown on both sides and cooked through.
- Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
Combine the Sauce, Pasta, and Chicken:
- Add the dairy-free sauce to the pasta along with a splash of the reserved pasta cooking water.
- Stir to combine, adding more pasta water as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
- Slice or shred the chicken and add it to the pasta.
- Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Possible Variations
To make a vegan version:
- Omit the chicken and use tofu or tempeh instead.
To add more vegetables:
- Sauté your favorite vegetables along with the chicken, such as bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini.
To make a gluten-free version:
- Use gluten-free pasta.
This dairy-free chicken pasta recipe is a versatile and delicious meal that can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or simply looking for a creamy and flavorful pasta dish, this recipe will not disappoint. So, gather your ingredients and give it a try. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create a satisfying and dairy-free pasta dish that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.