Cashew Chicken

If you’re looking for a delectable dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a savory sauce, then Cashew Chicken is your answer. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also brings a delightful taste of Asian cuisine straight to your table. With its balance of sweet and spicy flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Keep Making It

There are countless reasons to whip up this Cashew Chicken recipe time and again. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, taking less than 30 minutes from start to finish. Secondly, the ingredients are simple and often found in most kitchens. Plus, the dish is customizable; you can adjust the level of spice or sweetness to suit your taste. Finally, this recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it a wonderful option for busy weeknights.

Ingredient Rundown

For this delicious Cashew Chicken, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• ½ cup hoisin sauce
• 1 teaspoon sriracha sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon honey (use more or less, to taste)
• ½ cup water
• 1 cup toasted salted whole cashews
• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1 teaspoon Morton kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 6 large garlic cloves, minced

Tools of the Trade

To prepare your Cashew Chicken, gather the following tools:

• Large skillet or wok – for cooking the chicken and sauce
• Mixing bowl – to combine the sauce ingredients
• Chopping board – for cutting the chicken and mincing garlic
• Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure your ingredients are just right
• Spatula – for stirring and flipping the chicken

Method: Cashew Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, sriracha, rice vinegar, cornstarch, honey, and water until smooth. This sauce will provide that rich flavor that makes Cashew Chicken so irresistible.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

In another bowl, season the chicken pieces with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.

Step 4: Add Garlic

Add the minced garlic to the skillet with the chicken and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it can turn bitter.

Step 5: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Stir to combine, and let it simmer for about 3-5 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the chicken.

Step 6: Add Cashews

Finally, gently fold in the toasted cashews. Stir just until they’re heated through. This step adds a wonderful crunch to your Cashew Chicken.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Cashew Chicken hot, over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables. Enjoy the delightful flavors and textures!

Adaptations for Special Diets

If you’re looking to adapt this Cashew Chicken recipe for specific dietary needs, consider the following:

• Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
• Low-Carb: Substitute honey with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol or monk fruit.
• Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh, and ensure all sauces are vegetarian-friendly.
• Nuts-Free: Omit the cashews and replace them with sunflower seeds for crunch.

Troubleshooting Tips

Sometimes things don’t go as planned in the kitchen. Here are some tips to ensure your Cashew Chicken turns out perfectly:

• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more water to reach your desired consistency.
• For a spicier kick, increase the amount of sriracha in the sauce.
• If the chicken is dry, ensure you don’t overcook it; remove from heat as soon as it’s fully cooked.
• To make it more colorful, add vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas during cooking.

Meal Prep & Storage Notes

Planning to make this Cashew Chicken ahead of time? Here are some helpful tips:

You can prepare the sauce and chop the chicken a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, just follow the steps as usual. Leftover Cashew Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use another type of nut instead of cashews?

Absolutely! While cashews give a unique flavor, you can substitute them with peanuts or almonds if you prefer.

Is this dish spicy?

The level of spiciness depends on how much sriracha you add. Feel free to adjust it to suit your taste; you can even omit it altogether for a milder flavor.

Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare everything in advance and store it separately. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best taste and texture.

What can I serve with Cashew Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice, fried rice, or even noodles. You might also want to serve it alongside some stir-fried vegetables for a well-rounded meal.

What to Make After This

Once you’ve mastered Cashew Chicken, you might want to explore other delicious recipes such as:

• Chicken Korma
• Creamy Pesto Chicken
• Garlic Parmesan Chicken Tenders

Save & Share

If you loved this Cashew Chicken recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and family! The joy of cooking is best enjoyed when shared.

The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a sweet and savory sauce makes Cashew Chicken a must-try dish. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, it’s a delightful meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

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