Creamy Cajun Pasta with Chicken of the Woods Mushrooms: A Plant-Based 10/10

Creamy, Spicy & Shockingly “Chicken-Like”

If you’ve never had Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, you’re missing out on the closest texture to real chicken you’ll ever find in a plant-based ingredient. This meaty mushroom holds flavor beautifully, has zero slimy texture, and is naturally packed with protein, fiber, and minerals.

In this recipe by @casinothehero, the mushrooms get the Cajun treatment — pan-seared with herbs and spices, then layered over a silky creamy Cajun pasta made with ancient grain noodles, roasted garlic, plant-based cream, and a kick of spice. The result? A plant-based meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and definitely 10/10.

Ingredients List

For the Cajun Sauce

• 1 head fresh garlic, roasted
• 2 tbsp minced garlic
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup vegetable stock
• 1 cup plant-based heavy whipping cream
• 2 tbsp chickpea flour (to thicken)
• 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

For the Pasta

• 8 oz ancient grain pasta (or any high-fiber pasta)

For the Mushrooms

• 2 cups Chicken of the Woods mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
• 1 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 tbsp plant-based butter
• 1 tsp Cajun seasoning

For Garnish

• 2 tbsp plant-based Parmesan
• 1 tbsp sliced green onions

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Roast the Garlic

• Roast a whole head of garlic until soft and fragrant.
• Squeeze out the cloves.

2. Start the Sauce

• In a pan, sauté roasted garlic, minced garlic, and tomato paste for 5 minutes.

3. Build Flavor

• Add veggie stock, season with Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Make It Creamy

• Pour in plant-based cream and whisk in chickpea flour to thicken.
• Let simmer.

5. Prepare the Mushrooms

• Massage mushrooms with avocado oil and seasoning.
• Then, sauté in butter until golden and meaty.

6. Combine & Serve

• Toss pasta in Cajun sauce, plate, and top with seared mushrooms, Parmesan, and green onions.

Pro Tips & Suggestions

• Always cook Chicken of the Woods thoroughly to bring out its meaty texture.
• Chickpea flour thickens without altering the flavor.
• Swap Cajun spice for jerk seasoning for a Caribbean twist.
• Add sautéed bell peppers for extra crunch and color.

About the Creator

This recipe is by Casino the Hero, the creative behind @casinothehero. Known for bold, plant-based eats that rival traditional dishes, he transforms mushrooms into masterpieces while keeping everything flavorful, hearty, and soulful.

Casino The Hero | @casinothehero