Savory Cashew Chicken: A Flavorful Family Favorite

It’s a culinary adventure waiting to unfold when you dive into the world of cashew chicken. Imagine succulent chicken pieces, tender and juicy, mingling with crunchy, roasted cashews that add a delightful nutty crunch. The aroma of ginger and garlic wafts through your kitchen, pulling you in like the warmest hug on a chilly day. Just thinking about it makes my taste buds do a happy dance!

I remember the first time I made cashew chicken for my family; they were wowed by the explosion of flavors. It became our go-to dish for family game nights, sparking laughter and delight as we gathered around the table. The vibrant colors and inviting scents create an experience that’s simply unforgettable.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This delicious cashew chicken recipe offers incredible flavor with minimal effort, making dinner prep a breeze
  • You can easily switch up ingredients based on what’s in your pantry
  • The colorful presentation makes it a show-stopper at any gathering
  • Perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends with loved ones

My friends always rave about this dish, especially when I serve it during potlucks.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

  • Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Typically around 1 pound is perfect for this recipe; ensure they’re fresh for the best results.

  • Raw Cashews: Opt for unsalted raw cashews for a delightful crunch without excess salt.

  • Fresh Ginger: Choose firm ginger root for maximum flavor; it adds a zesty kick to your dish.

  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic cloves are essential; their pungent aroma enhances every bite.

  • Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce is best to manage saltiness while allowing rich flavor.

  • Vegetable Oil: Use oil with a high smoke point like canola or peanut oil for frying.

  • Bell Peppers: Brightly colored bell peppers add visual appeal and sweetness to the dish.

  • Green Onions: These provide freshness and vibrant color; slice them thinly for garnish.

  • Cornstarch: A touch of cornstarch helps thicken the sauce and coat the chicken beautifully.

  • Chicken Broth: Homemade or store-bought broth enhances flavor depth throughout your dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Preparation of Ingredients: Start by gathering all ingredients and prepping them; chop your chicken into bite-sized pieces while slicing bell peppers and green onions. Ensure everything is ready before you start cooking.

Create the Marinade: In a bowl, mix soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch until smooth. This will ensure every piece of chicken gets coated beautifully.

Sautéing Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add marinated chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides, approximately 6-8 minutes.

Add Vegetables: Toss in bell peppers and cook until they soften slightly; you want them to retain some crunch while absorbing flavors from the chicken.

Create the Sauce: Pour in chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the pan’s bottom for extra flavor goodness! Let it simmer gently until thickened.

Toss in Cashews: Finally, stir in roasted cashews just before serving; their crunch brings an amazing texture contrast that everyone will love!

Enjoy sharing this beautiful cashew chicken creation with family or friends!

You Must Know

  • Cashew chicken is a delightful dish that balances flavors and textures beautifully
  • The crunch of cashews paired with juicy chicken creates a satisfying experience
  • Perfect for weeknight dinners or impressing guests, it’s as fun to make as it is to eat!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes. Sear the chicken first, then cook the vegetables before adding them together for even flavor distribution.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different nuts like almonds or add vegetables such as bell peppers or broccoli. Spice it up with red pepper flakes if you enjoy heat!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture and flavor.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • For perfectly juicy chicken, let it rest after cooking
  • Avoid overcrowding your pan while searing; this ensures a nice golden crust
  • Use fresh ingredients for maximum flavor impact; they truly make a difference!

The first time I made cashew chicken, my friends devoured every bite and demanded seconds. Their laughter echoed in my kitchen, making that moment unforgettable!

FAQs

FAQ

What can I serve with cashew chicken?

Serve cashew chicken over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.

Is cashew chicken gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use tamari instead of soy sauce in the recipe.

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Cashew Chicken: A Flavorful Delight


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  • Author: Rachel Lawson
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Description

Indulge in this easy and delicious cashew chicken recipe that combines tender chicken with crunchy, roasted cashews, all enveloped in a fragrant ginger-garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and satisfying flavors. Your taste buds will thank you!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup raw unsalted cashews
  • 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil (canola or peanut)
  • 1 cup bell peppers, sliced (any color)
  • 2 green onions, sliced thinly
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth

Instructions

  1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
  2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, and cornstarch until smooth.
  3. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook until golden brown, about 6-8 minutes.
  4. Add bell peppers to the pan and sauté until slightly softened.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth while scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer until thickened.
  6. Stir in roasted cashews just before serving.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main
  • Method: Stir-Frying
  • Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250g)
  • Calories: 430
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 620mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 14g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 28g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 36g
  • Cholesterol: 95mg
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About the author
Rachel Lawson
Hi, I’m Rachel, the heart and soul behind Cooking with Rachel. My journey into the culinary world began as a personal escape—turning simple ingredients into nourishing meals that bring comfort and joy. With a deep passion for wholesome cooking, I create recipes that balance flavor and well-being, proving that healthy eating can be both delicious and satisfying.

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