Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta Recipe

If you are on the lookout for a luscious, comforting weeknight dinner that won’t skimp on flavor and keeps things completely dairy free, you simply must try this incredible Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta. This dish is an absolute showstopper with tender chicken thighs, a creamy sauce made from soaked cashews, invigorating touches of Dijon mustards, and the subtle earthiness of mushrooms and sundried tomatoes all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta. Each bite bursts with a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that might just have you reaching for a second helping – no dairy required!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta is much simpler than it looks, with each ingredient playing an important role in creating the dish’s depth and richness. Fresh produce, wholesome chicken, and pantry staples combine to build that signature creamy, tangy, and savory flavor profile that elevates this recipe.

• Raw cashews: Provide the base for the ultra-creamy, dairy-free sauce once soaked and blended.
• Pasta: The vehicle for all the delicious flavors, cooked al dente for the perfect bite.
• Chicken thigh, diced: Juicy, tender protein that soaks up the sauce wonderfully.
• Garlic, minced: Adds aromatic warmth and depth to the sauce’s background.
• Olive oil, extra virgin: For sautéing ingredients and infusing a fruity richness.
• Cracked black pepper: A simple seasoning that brings a touch of sharpness and heat.
• Finely ground sea salt: Essential for enhancing flavors at every step.
• Nutritional yeast: Adds a subtle cheesy note without any dairy.
• Button mushrooms, thinly sliced: Earthy and meaty, perfect for umami depth.
• Dry white wine: Deglazes the pan and brings acidity and brightness.
• Chicken stock: The flavorful liquid base that ties the sauce together.
• Seeded mustard and Dijon mustard: Two mustards work in harmony for tang and complexity.
• Sundried tomato strips: Sweet, chewy, and packed with concentrated tomato flavor.
• Baby spinach: Adds a pop of color and gentle earthiness when wilted in.
• Sea salt flakes: For finishing touches and texture contrast.
• Flat leaf parsley, finely chopped: A fresh herbal note that brightens the whole dish.

How to Make Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Step 1: Soften the Cashews for Creamy Sauce

Begin by placing the raw cashews into a heatproof bowl and pouring boiling water over them to soften. Let them soak for about 20 to 30 minutes until they become tender. This step is crucial because these softened cashews will blend into a silky smooth, dairy-free cream that forms the luscious base of your sauce.

Step 2: Cook Your Pasta to Perfect Al Dente

While the cashews soak, boil a large pot of water, season it generously with finely ground sea salt, and add your pasta. Cooking it to al dente ensures the pasta will hold its shape and texture beautifully once mixed with the creamy sauce, preventing any sogginess and offering that satisfying bite.

Step 3: Blend the Cashew Cream Sauce

Drain the soaked cashews and place them in a food processor along with 100 mL of water and the nutritional yeast. Blend on high until smooth, creamy, and without lumps—think rich, dairy-like texture that’s the star of this Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta. Gradually add more water if needed to adjust consistency, then set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken in Two Batches

Heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add half the diced chicken and cook until perfectly golden and fully cooked through. Remove and cook the remainder the same way. Cooking in two batches helps the chicken brown evenly, locking in juiciness and flavor, which is essential for this dish.

Step 5: Sauté Mushrooms Until Golden

In the same pan, add a bit more olive oil and toss in the thinly sliced mushrooms. Cook them over medium heat until they’re beautifully tender and develop a golden crust. This process intensifies their earthy taste, adding that wonderful umami richness to your sauce.

Step 6: Deglaze and Build the Sauce

Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté just until it turns a light golden color. Immediately pour in the white wine and chicken stock to deglaze the pan, loosening all the flavorful bits stuck on the bottom. Whisk in the homemade cashew cream, Dijon mustard, seeded mustard, and sundried tomato strips. Return the cooked chicken to the pan, reduce to a gentle simmer, and let everything marry for about 5 minutes.

Step 7: Add Baby Spinach and Combine with Pasta

Stir the baby spinach through the sauce until wilted, infusing the dish with color and a subtle freshness. Give the cooked pasta a good toss in the sauce, making sure each strand or piece is generously coated. If the sauce feels a bit thick, add reserved pasta water a little at a time to loosen it up to your desired consistency. This step ensures the sauce clings perfectly to the pasta and chicken, delivering that irresistible creamy finish that defines Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta.

How to Serve Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta

Garnishes

Sprinkle finely chopped flat leaf parsley on top to bring a burst of freshness and vibrant green color just before serving. A light scatter of sea salt flakes adds a delightful crunch and saltiness contrast, elevating the whole experience with simple yet powerful finishing touches.

Side Dishes

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but serving it alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or some roasted seasonal vegetables can balance the richness perfectly. Garlic bread made with dairy-free butter is also a wonderful accompaniment that makes this meal feel luxurious and complete.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try plating the Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta in shallow bowls, garnished with a wedge of lemon to brighten flavors at the table. Alternatively, serve in individual cast iron skillets or rustic terracotta dishes to emphasize its comforting, home-cooked vibe that will make your guests feel right at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before sealing, allow it to cool completely to prevent condensation and preserve the fresh taste and creamy texture.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is possible but might slightly affect the texture of the spinach and pasta. If you need to freeze, portion it out into freezer-safe containers and keep it for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Reheating

When reheating, warm your leftovers slowly over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much. This careful reheating preserves the creamy, luscious texture that makes the Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta so irresistible.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews for the creamy sauce?

Cashews are ideal because they blend into a smooth and creamy consistency without a strong flavor. Other nuts like almonds or macadamias might work but could alter the taste and texture, so cashews remain the best choice for this recipe.

Is it necessary to use chicken thighs, or can I substitute chicken breast?

Chicken thighs are preferred for their juiciness and tenderness which hold up well in the sauce. Chicken breast can be used, but it tends to dry out faster, so handle with care and avoid overcooking.

What can I substitute for white wine if I prefer not to cook with alcohol?

You can substitute the white wine with additional chicken stock and a splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for acidity. This keeps the dish bright without compromising flavor.

Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the regular pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta variety, and be sure to check all other ingredients like stock and mustard for gluten-free labels.

How spicy is this dish? Can I add heat?

This dish is mild by default but wonderfully flavorful. If you like a bit of heat, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic or tossing some fresh chili slices into the sauce works beautifully.

Final Thoughts

This Dairy Free Marry Me Chicken Pasta is one of those recipes that quickly becomes a beloved favorite. It boasts a richness and depth that you might not expect from a dairy-free dish and is endlessly comforting with every forkful. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining guests, or simply treating yourself, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that proves dairy-free can still mean decadently delicious. Give it a try and watch it become a staple your kitchen will thank you for!

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