This cashew chicken recipe is quick and easy to make at home. It’s a delicious stir-fry dish that features tender chicken coated in a savoury sauce and mixed with roasted cashews. With a handful of pantry staples and simple ingredients, you’ll have a restaurant-quality dish on the table in no time.
Whether you’re craving a quick cashew chicken stir-fry or looking to impress your family with a homemade cashew chicken, this recipe has got you covered. The combination of succulent chicken, crunchy cashews, and flavorful sauce is sure to satisfy your taste buds.
What makes this cashew chicken recipe even better is how easy it is to prepare. With just a few steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up a mouthwatering dish without spending hours in the kitchen.
So, if you’re in the mood for an easy cashew chicken that’s packed with flavour, follow along as we guide you through the simple steps to create this delectable recipe. Get ready to enjoy a satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients for Cashew Chicken Recipe
To make this delicious cashew chicken recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Cornstarch
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic
- Rice vinegar
- Canola oil
- Hoisin sauce
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Ground ginger
- Water
- Dry roasted cashews
- Sesame oil
These carefully selected ingredients come together to create a mouthwatering cashew chicken dish that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and will result in a delicious meal that everyone will love. Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s move on to the next section to learn how to prepare this tasty cashew chicken dish.
Instructions for Cashew Chicken Recipe
Follow these simple steps to prepare the cashew chicken recipe:
- Start by toasting the cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become golden and fragrant. This step enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces in this mixture evenly, ensuring that they are well coated on all sides.
- Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces and cook them until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip them occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cashew chicken sauce by combining soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, sugar, and vinegar in a small bowl. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour the cashew chicken sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- While the chicken is simmering, mix the toasted cashews and sesame oil in a separate bowl.
- After the chicken has simmered, add the cashews and sesame oil mixture to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure that the chicken and cashews are well coated in the sauce.
- Remove from heat and serve the cashew chicken over a bed of steamed rice. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and flavorful sauce is sure to delight your taste buds!
Enjoy this delicious cashew chicken dish that brings together the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Nutrition Details of Cashew Chicken
The nutrition details of this cashew chicken recipe may vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used. However, as a rough estimate, one serving of cashew chicken (about 1 cup) contains the following:
- Calories: 501
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Protein: 26g
- Fat: 23g
- Sodium: 1113mg
- Potassium: 896mg
- Sugar: 11g
These values can be adjusted based on individual dietary needs and preferences. It’s important to note that the nutritional information provided is an approximation and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods used.
Adding cashew chicken to your meal plan is a great way to enjoy a delicious and satisfying dish while also incorporating important nutrients into your diet. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed meal or a dish that’s low in carbohydrates, cashew chicken offers a balance of flavours and nutritional benefits.
With its combination of protein from the chicken and cashews, healthy fats, and essential minerals like sodium and potassium, this dish can provide a well-rounded and nourishing option for your next meal. Plus, the touch of sweetness from the sugar adds a delightful contrast to the savoury flavours.
Remember that nutrition details can vary depending on how the cashew chicken is prepared, so be mindful of portion sizes and any additional ingredients you may add. Experimenting with different variations of this recipe can help you find the perfect balance that suits your taste preferences and dietary requirements.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Cashew Chicken: Replace chicken with firm tofu or a variety of vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.
- Pineapple Cashew Chicken: Add chunks of fresh or canned pineapple for a sweet and tangy flavour.
- Ginger Cashew Chicken: Incorporate fresh grated ginger or use ground ginger for a more aromatic and spiced dish.
- Coconut Cashew Chicken: Substitute part of the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
Serving Suggestions:
- Rice: Fried rice with peas and carrots can add more flavour and texture.
- Noodles: Pair with stir-fried noodles for a hearty meal.
- Vegetables: Serve with a side of steamed or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli, bok choy, or snow peas.
- Garnishes: Top with fresh chopped scallions, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime juice.
- Salad: Accompany with a fresh green salad with an Asian-inspired dressing.
Reheating Tips:
Microwave:
- Place the cashew chicken in a microwave-safe dish.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent.
- Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stir, then continue heating in 30-second intervals until warm.
Stovetop:
- Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Add a splash of chicken broth or water to prevent sticking.
- Add the cashew chicken and stir occasionally until heated through.
Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the cashew chicken in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil.
- Heat for 10-15 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this cashew chicken recipe is a delicious takeout alternative that you can easily make at home. With its quick and easy preparation, you can enjoy a homemade cashew chicken dish without the need to order takeout.
The flavorful sauce, combined with the tender chicken and crunchy cashews, creates a delightful balance of flavours and textures that will satisfy your cravings. It’s a perfect dish for a quick and easy stir-fry dinner.
By making this homemade cashew chicken, you have the freedom to adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences, and you know exactly what goes into your meal. Serve it with steamed rice and your favourite vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.
Next time you’re in the mood for a delicious stir-fry, give this cashew chicken recipe a try. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy the flavours of your favourite takeout dish in the comfort of your own home. Get creative and make it your own by adding some of your favourite ingredients. Enjoy!
FAQs
What makes this cashew chicken recipe quick and easy?
This cashew chicken recipe is quick and easy because it uses simple ingredients and requires minimal preparation. With a few pantry staples and some basic cooking techniques, you’ll have a delicious stir-fry dish on the table in no time.
Can I make this cashew chicken recipe at home?
Absolutely! This cashew chicken recipe is designed to be made at home. With the step-by-step instructions provided, you’ll be able to recreate the flavours of your favourite takeout dish right in your own kitchen.
Can I customize this cashew chicken recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the ingredients and seasonings to suit your taste. You can add vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added colour and nutrition. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make this recipe your own.
Cashew Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Cornstarch
- Salt and pepper
- Garlic
- Rice vinegar
- Canola oil
- Hoisin sauce
- Soy sauce
- Brown sugar
- Ground ginger
- Water
- Dry roasted cashews
- Sesame oil
Instructions
- Start by toasting the cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become golden and fragrant. This step enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to the dish.
- In a bowl, mix cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken pieces in this mixture evenly, ensuring that they are well coated on all sides.Cornstarch, Salt and pepper, Boneless skinless chicken breasts
- Heat some oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces and cook them until they turn golden brown and crispy. Make sure to flip them occasionally to ensure even cooking.Sesame oil
- While the chicken is cooking, prepare the cashew chicken sauce by combining soy sauce, oyster sauce, chicken broth, sugar, and vinegar in a small bowl. Stir well to dissolve the sugar.Rice vinegar, Soy sauce, Brown sugar, Water, Dry roasted cashews, Garlic
- Once the chicken is cooked, pour the cashew chicken sauce over the chicken in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken simmer in the sauce for a few minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.Canola oil, Hoisin sauce, Ground ginger
- While the chicken is simmering, mix the toasted cashews and sesame oil in a separate bowl.
- After the chicken has simmered, add the cashews and sesame oil mixture to the skillet. Gently toss everything together to ensure that the chicken and cashews are well coated in the sauce.
