The Perfect Cashew Chicken Recipe for Family Dinners

Crafting a delectable cashew chicken recipe brings pure culinary joy to weeknight dining.

Familiar ingredients transform into an extraordinary meal with minimal effort.

Tender chicken pieces mingle beautifully with crunchy cashews, creating a harmonious flavor profile.

Aromas of ginger and garlic waft through your kitchen, promising a delightful experience.

Vibrant colors and textures make this dish both visually appealing and satisfying.

Quick preparation means you can enjoy restaurant-quality goodness without leaving home.

Let’s uncover the magic of this simple yet irresistible meal that will surely become a household favorite.

What Makes Cashew Chicken So Easy and Irresistible

• Speed Up Meal Prep: Break down complex steps into quick, manageable tasks that streamline cooking process and reduce overall preparation time.
• Master One-Pan Magic: Create a complete meal using just a single wok or skillet, minimizing kitchen cleanup and simplifying cooking technique.
• Customize Your Flavor Profile: Adjust sauce ingredients or swap vegetables to match personal taste preferences and dietary needs, making recipe incredibly versatile.
• Nutrient-Packed Protein Punch: Combine lean chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant bell peppers for a balanced meal that delivers robust nutrition and satisfying texture.

Cashew Chicken Ingredient Checklist

• Chicken Breasts: A lean protein that serves as the primary component of this delicious stir-fry dish.
• Cashews: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor to the chicken mixture.

• Garlic: Provides a robust and pungent base flavor to the dish.
• Fresh Ginger: Offers a warm, slightly spicy undertone that complements the chicken.
• Green Onions: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor as a garnish.

• Soy Sauce, Oyster Sauce, Rice Vinegar: Create a harmonious blend of umami, tangy, and savory flavors.
• Cornstarch: Helps to thicken the sauce and create a glossy coating.
• Black Pepper: Provides a subtle heat and depth to the overall seasoning.
• Sesame Oil: Imparts a rich, nutty aroma to finish the dish.

• Red Bell Pepper, Green Bell Pepper: Contribute vibrant color and crisp texture to the stir-fry.

• Vegetable Oil: Serves as the primary cooking medium for searing and stir-frying ingredients.

Easy Steps to Cook Cashew Chicken at Home

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes with precision. Aim for uniform pieces to guarantee even cooking and perfect texture.

Step 2: Awaken the Aromatics

Finely mince fresh garlic and grate zesty ginger. These ingredients will create a flavor-packed foundation for your dish.

Step 3: Chop Colorful Peppers

Slice red and green bell peppers into thin, elegant strips. These vibrant vegetables will add crunch and visual appeal to the meal.

Step 4: Craft the Magical Sauce

• Soy sauce
• Oyster sauce
• Rice vinegar
• Cornstarch
• Black pepper

Whisk until the mixture becomes silky smooth and well-integrated.

Step 5: Fire Up the Wok

Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers with anticipation.

Step 6: Sear the Chicken

Carefully place chicken cubes into the hot pan. Cook until each piece transforms into a golden-brown beauty, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 7: Infuse with Flavor

Tumble minced garlic and ginger into the cooking chicken. Let their aromatic essence dance through the meat.

Step 8: Add Vegetable Excitement

Toss bell pepper strips into the wok. Stir-fry quickly to maintain their crisp, vibrant character.

Step 9: Sauce It Up

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir continuously, creating a glossy, mouth-watering coating.

Step 10: Introduce the Cashews

Sprinkle cashews into the mix. Allow them to warm and develop a subtle toasted flavor.

Step 11: Final Flavor Boost

Drizzle a touch of sesame oil over the dish, adding depth and complexity to the overall taste.

Step 12: Green Onion Finale

Scatter freshly chopped green onions across the top, bringing a burst of fresh color and sharp flavor.

Step 13: Serve with Style

Plate over steamed rice, ensuring each serving gets a perfect balance of chicken, vegetables, and crunchy cashews. Enjoy immediately while piping hot!

Top Tips for Better Homemade Cashew Chicken

• Slice Chicken Precisely: Cut chicken into uniform cubes to guarantee even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.
• Boost Flavor Layers: Toast cashews separately before adding to intensify their nutty taste and provide extra crunch.
• Master Wok Technique: Keep ingredients moving constantly during stir-frying to prevent burning and maintain vibrant vegetable colors.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: Control marinade thickness by gradually adding cornstarch, ensuring perfect glossy coating without becoming too sticky.
• Quick Meal Prep: Chop all ingredients beforehand to streamline cooking process and reduce overall preparation time.

Flavor Variations for Cashew Chicken You’ll Enjoy

• Spicy Cashew Chicken: Add sriracha sauce or red chili flakes to increase heat level, creating a fiery version that tingles taste buds.
• Coconut Cashew Chicken: Replace some soy sauce with coconut milk for a creamy, tropical-inspired sauce that adds rich undertones.
• Low-Carb Cashew Chicken: Substitute rice with cauliflower rice or serve over zucchini noodles for a lighter, keto-friendly alternative.
• Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps: Skip the rice and serve the mixture inside crisp lettuce leaves for a fresh, handheld meal with fewer carbohydrates.

Perfect Pairings for Cashew Chicken

• Crisp White Wine Companion: Select a refreshing Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc that balances the dish's savory notes and cuts through the rich cashew sauce with bright, citrusy undertones.
• Enhance with Aromatic Rice Partner: Choose jasmine or basmati rice to complement the chicken's texture, providing a delicate backdrop that absorbs the flavorful sauce while adding subtle fragrance.
• Create Cooling Side Salad Match: Prepare a quick cucumber and carrot slaw with rice vinegar dressing to offer a crisp, tangy contrast that refreshes the palate and balances the warm, nutty chicken dish.

How to Store Cashew Chicken Without Drying It Out

• Transfer cooled cashew chicken to an airtight container, keeping it fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Seal tightly to prevent moisture and odor absorption.
• Pack the dish in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months, maintaining optimal flavor and texture.
• Gently warm refrigerated cashew chicken in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to restore moisture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Store cashews separately from the main dish to maintain their crispness. Add them fresh when reheating to preserve their crunchy texture and prevent sogginess.

Cashew Chicken FAQs You’ll Want to Know

• What are the key ingredients for authentic cashew chicken?

The essential ingredients include chicken breasts, cashews, soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, bell peppers, and rice vinegar.

• Is cashew chicken a healthy meal option?

Yes, it provides lean protein from chicken, healthy fats from cashews, and nutrients from bell peppers, making it a balanced and nutritious dish.

• Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute regular soy sauce with tamari or gluten-free soy sauce to create a gluten-free version of the dish without compromising flavor.

• How do I ensure the chicken stays tender and juicy?

Cut chicken into uniform bite-sized pieces and cook quickly over medium-high heat, avoiding overcooking to maintain moisture and tenderness.

Cashew Chicken Recipe

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4.8 from 32 reviews

• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Savory cashew chicken elevates weeknight dinners with a delightful blend of tender meat and crunchy nuts. Crisp vegetables and a rich sauce create a perfect balance, promising a satisfying meal that brings Chinese-inspired flavors right to your table.

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Ingredients

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Protein:

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup cashews

Vegetables:

• 1 red bell pepper
• 1 green bell pepper
• 1/2 cup green onions
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 inch fresh ginger

Sauce and Seasoning:

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp salt

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Instructions

1. Slice chicken breasts into bite-sized cubes, ensuring uniform pieces for even cooking.
2. Mince garlic and grate fresh ginger to prepare aromatic base for the dish.
3. Chop red and green bell peppers into uniform thin strips, creating colorful vegetable components.
4. Whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and black pepper in a small bowl to create a smooth marinade.
5. Heat vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
6. Add chicken cubes to the hot pan, searing each piece until golden brown and cooked through, approximately 5-7 minutes.
7. Incorporate minced garlic and ginger into the cooking chicken, releasing their fragrant essence.
8. Toss bell pepper strips into the wok, stir-frying for 2-3 minutes to maintain crisp texture.
9. Pour prepared sauce over chicken and vegetables, stirring continuously to coat evenly and create glossy finish.
10. Sprinkle cashews into the mixture, allowing them to warm and slightly toast.
11. Drizzle sesame oil over the dish for additional depth of flavor.
12. Garnish with chopped green onions just before serving.
13. Serve immediately over steamed rice, ensuring each portion has a balanced mix of chicken, vegetables, and cashews.

Notes

• Choose chicken breasts with minimal fat for leaner protein and easier cutting into uniform cubes.
• Use high-heat cooking method like wok to achieve perfect golden-brown chicken exterior while maintaining tender inside.
• Toast cashews separately before adding to dish for enhanced nutty flavor and crunchier texture.
• Consider using low-sodium soy sauce for healthier version without compromising authentic taste profile.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Chinese

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 3 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 40 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg