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Cashew Chicken
Cashew Chicken combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant veggies in a savory sauce for a quick, delicious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
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Discover the ultimate Cashew Chicken recipe bursting with savory flavors and crunchy cashews. This easy-to-make dish combines tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and a delectable sauce for a meal your whole family will love. Perfect for busy weeknights, it’s a quick and delicious dinner option.
Follow our guide below for easy step-by-step photos and directions. Check out our pro tips and tricks to make this recipe even better. We’ve also included answers to the most frequently asked questions to ensure your success.
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Whip up this amazing chicken & cashew nuts stir fry recipe in just 30 minutes! Perfect for dinner or a special occasion, it combines juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and crunchy cashews in a savory sauce. This dish stands out with its rich flavors and simple steps, making it easy for anyone to cook. Serve this delightful meal at your next potluck, and watch everyone rave about it!
Ingredients
What you'll need to make this Cashew Chicken
- 4 cups (2 pounds or 3 large pieces) of boneless skinless chicken breasts, 1-inch pieces
- ⅓ cup of cornstarch
- ⅓ cup of low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup of low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup of brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons of dry sherry
- 2 tablespoons of hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon of minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons of grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame oil
- ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes
- 1 cup of green onions (scallions), chopped and divided into ¾ cup and ¼ cup
- 2 to 4 tablespoons of peanut oil
- ¾ cup of whole cashews, low-salt or unsalted
Pro Tip
You can find sesame oil in two places at the grocery store. It can be found in the baking aisle in the oil section. You can also find it with Asian foods as well. It is usually cheaper if you pick the oil that is in with the Asian foods.
Substitutions and Additions
Personalize your easy chicken cashew recipe by swapping out ingredients and adding delicious extras! These simple changes can make your dish uniquely yours. Here are some top substitutions and additions:
- Substitute Chicken: Use shrimp or tofu for a different protein in your Cashew Chicken.
- Substitute Soy Sauce: Swap soy sauce with tamari for a gluten-free option in your Cashew Chicken.
- Add Veggies: Include broccoli or snap peas for extra crunch in your Cashew Chicken.
- Add Spice: Use sriracha or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick in your Cashew Chicken.
- Substitute Cashews: Try almonds or peanuts for a different nutty flavor in your Cashew Chicken.
How to Make Cashew Chicken
Follow along with our pictures, step-by-step instructions, and tips and tricks listed below. Let’s get started on this delicious chicken & cashew stir fry! You’ll love how easy and tasty this dish is to make.
FIRST STEP: Place the pieces of boneless skinless chicken and cornstarch into a large zip-top bag. Shake the bag well to coat all the pieces of chicken with the cornstarch.
SECOND STEP: In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, dry sherry, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and ¾ cup of chopped green onions. Reserve ¼ cup of the chopped green onions for a garnish. Set aside.
Pro Tip
If you like it spicy, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes to ½ teaspoon. You can even swap out the red pepper flakes for 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha in this sauce if you like more heat.
THIRD STEP: Add 2 tablespoons of the peanut oil to a large skillet on medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add half the amount of coated chicken pieces to the hot pan. Do not overcrowd your skillet.
FOURTH STEP: Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes or until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it onto a plate.
FIFTH STEP: Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces until all the chicken is golden brown. You may need to add the additional 2 tablespoons of peanut oil before adding the second batch of chicken to the skillet.
SIXTH STEP: Once your second batch of chicken has been cooked, you will add back the reserved cooked chicken from the plate and the cashews to the hot skillet.
SEVENTH STEP: Pour the reserved sauce mixture over the chicken and cashews. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Be sure to stir your chicken often to prevent the sauce from burning and to ensure that all your cashew chicken is coated well with the sauce.
EIGHTH STEP: Garnish your cashew chicken with the reserved chopped green onions.
Pro Tip
This cashew nut chicken is best served immediately. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
How to Serve Cashew Chicken
Serve Cashew Chicken at family dinners, potlucks, or special occasions. This versatile dish delights both kids and adults year-round.
- Family Dinners: Enjoy Cashew Chicken for family dinners with steamed rice or noodles. Kids love the tender chicken and savory sauce. Pair it with a simple cucumber salad for a refreshing side.
- Special Occasions: Impress guests at your next party or holiday gathering with Cashew Chicken. The rich flavors make it perfect for celebrations. Serve with egg roll in a bowl and a sweet and sour dipping sauce.
- Seasonal Meals: Delight in Cashew Chicken during any season, whether it’s a cozy winter meal or a light summer lunch. Complement it with a salad in summer or a hearty soup in winter.
Why You'll Love This Cashew Chicken Recipe
Cashew Chicken is more than just a meal—it's a beloved favorite for several delightful reasons:
- Bursting with Flavor: This recipe perfectly combines tender chicken with crunchy cashews and vibrant veggies in a savory sauce. Each bite offers a satisfying crunch and rich taste.
- Family-Friendly: Cashew Chicken is a hit with both kids and adults. The mild, delicious flavors appeal to everyone.
- Versatile and Easy to Make: This dish works for busy weeknights, casual gatherings, or special occasions. The quick preparation makes it a go-to recipe.
This Asian chicken dinner isn’t just delicious—it’s a crowd-pleaser that fits any occasion and leaves everyone wanting more.
Preparation FAQ
What type of chicken works best for Cashew Chicken?
Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Cut into bite-sized pieces for even cooking and better flavor.
How do I achieve a thick, glossy sauce?
Thicken the sauce by adding a cornstarch slurry. Mix cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce.
How long should I cook the vegetables?
Cook vegetables until they are tender-crisp. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes to maintain a slight crunch.
Can I prepare Cashew Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and chop the ingredients ahead of time. Cook everything fresh for the best taste.
Serving FAQ
How should I serve Cashew Chicken for a party?
Serve this dish in a large, shallow dish with a garnish of fresh green onions and extra cashews.
What’s the best way to present this Asian chicken?
Present your chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles. Use a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture.
How do I keep Cashew Chicken warm for serving?
Keep it warm in a slow cooker on the "warm" setting. Stir occasionally to maintain an even temperature.
Can I serve Cashew Chicken as a main dish or side dish?
Serve this chicken as a main dish. Its hearty ingredients and rich flavors make it the star of any meal.
Storage FAQ
Follow the directions, tips, and tricks below for optimal storage of your Asian chicken dish. From making ahead to reheating, we’ve got you covered.
Can I prepare Cashew Chicken ahead of time?
Yes, cook the chicken and prepare the sauce separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to two days.
What’s the best way to store leftover Cashew Chicken?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to three days.
Is it possible to freeze Cashew Chicken?
While freshest is best, you can freeze cooked Cashew Chicken in an airtight container for up to one month.
How do I thaw and reheat frozen Cashew Chicken?
Thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
How should I reheat this chicken when ready to serve?
Reheat gently in a skillet on medium-low heat until warmed through. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Can I reheat this dish in the microwavhe?
Yes, for quick reheating, use the microwave in 30-second increments, but be careful not to overcook.
Chinese Dinner Recipes
Cashew Chicken
Cashew Chicken combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant veggies in a savory sauce for a quick, delicious meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Did you try this recipe?Let our readers know how it turned out by Leaving a Review!
Ingredients
- 4 cups boneless skinless chicken breasts (2 pounds or 3 large pieces, 1-inch pieces)
- ⅓ cup cornstarch
- ⅓ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ⅓ cup low-sodium chicken broth
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons dry sherry
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- 2 teaspoons grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup green onions (scallions, chopped and divided into ¾ cup and ¼ cup)
- 2 to 4 tablespoons peanut oil
- ¾ cup whole cashews (low-salt or unsalted)
DIRECTIONS
- Place the pieces of boneless skinless chicken and cornstarch into a large zip-top bag. Shake the bag well to coat all the pieces of chicken with the cornstarch.
- In a small bowl, stir together the soy sauce, chicken broth, brown sugar, dry sherry, hoisin sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, red pepper flakes, and ¾ cup of chopped green onions. Reserve ¼ cup of the chopped green onions for a garnish. Set aside.
- Add 2 tablespoons of the peanut oil to a large skillet on medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add half the amount of coated chicken pieces. Do not overcrowd your skillet.
- Cook the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes or until all sides are golden brown and the chicken is cooked through. Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and place it onto a plate.
- Repeat with the remaining chicken pieces until all the chicken is golden brown. You may need to add the additional 2 tablespoons of peanut oil before adding the second batch of chicken to the skillet.
- Once your second batch of chicken has been cooked, you will add back the reserved cooked chicken from the plate and the cashews to the hot skillet.
- Pour the reserved sauce mixture over the chicken and cashews. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes or until the sauce has thickened. Be sure to stir your chicken often to prevent the sauce from burning and to ensure that all your cashew chicken is coated well with the sauce.
- Garnish your cashew chicken with the reserved chopped green onions.
Notes
- You can find sesame oil in two places at the grocery store. It can be found in the baking aisle in the oil section. You can also find it with Asian foods as well. It is usually cheaper if you pick the oil that is in with the Asian foods.
- If you like it spicy, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes to ½ teaspoon. You can even swap out the red pepper flakes for 1 to 2 teaspoons of sriracha in this sauce if you like more heat.
- This cashew nut chicken is best served immediately. The sauce will continue to thicken as it cools.
Nutrition
Calories: 377kcal | Carbohydrates: 31g | Protein: 35g | Fat: 11g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Trans Fat: 0.02g | Cholesterol: 96mg | Sodium: 1.092mg | Potassium: 767mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 16g | Vitamin A: 443IU | Vitamin C: 7mg | Calcium: 53mg | Iron: 2mg
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