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