This Cashew Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce. This dish not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a quick and straightforward cooking experience that will impress family and friends alike. Perfect over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles, it embodies the essence of homemade comfort food with a touch of Asian flair.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will fall in love with this Cashew Chicken recipe for its rich flavors and irresistible textures. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy cashews, and colorful bell peppers creates a satisfying meal that is both nutritious and comforting. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up in under 30 minutes, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re following a busy lifestyle or just want a hearty meal without the hassle, this recipe fits the bill perfectly.
Tips and Tricks
- Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chop all vegetables and marinate the chicken in advance to save time during cooking.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and crunchiness of the dish. Look for vibrant bell peppers and crisp snow peas.
- Toast Cashews: For an extra layer of flavor, toast the cashews in a dry pan until golden before adding them to the dish.
- Adjust Heat: Feel free to adjust the amount of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance – just store it in the refrigerator. The vegetables can also be chopped ahead of time, stored in an airtight container, and will stay fresh for about 3 days. Prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in the fridge for up to a week — just give it a good stir before using.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with shrimp, tofu, or beef based on your preference.
- Veggie Additions: Add broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to increase the nutritional value and color.
- Spicy Twist: Incorporate sriracha or chili paste for a spicier kick.
How to Serve
Serve the Cashew Chicken hot over steamed jasmine rice or lo mein noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an appealing presentation. Pair it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the meal.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a chilled glass of Riesling or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio to complement the savory flavors. For a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced green tea works beautifully. Complement your meal with a side of spring rolls or a light mango salad for a complete dining experience.
How to Store
Leftover Cashew Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through or warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.
Equipment Needed
- A large skillet or wok for stir-frying.
- A cutting board and knife for chopping vegetables.
- A mixing bowl for marinating the chicken.
- Tongs or a spatula for stirring the ingredients.
Dietary Adaptations
- Vegan: Replace chicken with tofu and use a soy sauce that’s gluten-free for a vegan version.
- Nut-Free: Omit cashews and replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free; just ensure your sauces are free from dairy ingredients.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, take advantage of fresh, local vegetables like zucchini and corn. In the winter, consider adding mushrooms for warmth and umami. Use seasonal produce to keep the dish fresh and vibrant throughout the year.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken?: Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
- How can I make this gluten-free?: Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce.
- What can I substitute for cashews?: Almonds or peanuts can be used as substitutes, depending on your preference.
Cashew Chicken
This Cashew Chicken recipe is a delightful blend of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a savory, slightly sweet sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced
- 1 cup unsalted cashews
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Sliced green onions for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine diced chicken, soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Prep Ingredients: While the chicken is marinating, chop your vegetables and set them aside.
- Toast Cashews: In a dry skillet, toast the cashews over medium heat until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
- Cook Chicken: In the same skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in the garlic, ginger, and all the vegetables. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
- Combine: Add the toasted cashews back into the skillet and sprinkle with red pepper flakes if desired. Toss everything together and cook for another minute.
- Serve: Plate your Cashew Chicken and garnish with sliced green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 590Total Fat 31gSaturated Fat 6gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 23gCholesterol 96mgSodium 985mgCarbohydrates 38gFiber 4gSugar 16gProtein 45g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making this Cashew Chicken recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress with its colorful presentation and delicious taste. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make it your own. Enjoy your cooking journey!
