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Homemade cashew chicken stir fry with juicy chicken, vegetables, and crunchy cashews.

Cashew Chicken

A quick and comforting stir-fry that combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a savory sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Chinese
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 to 1.25 pounds Chicken, cut into bite sized pieces Chicken thighs recommended for juiciness.
  • 3/4 cup Cashews, preferably unsalted Toast in a dry pan for best flavor.
  • 1 Bell pepper, chopped Any color bell pepper can be used.
  • 2 cups Broccoli or snap peas Optional but highly recommended.
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon Ginger, grated or minced
  • 1/4 cup Soy sauce, low sodium recommended Helps control saltiness.
  • 1/3 cup Chicken broth or water
  • 1 tablespoon Rice vinegar
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons Honey or brown sugar Just enough to round things out.
  • 2 tablespoons Cornstarch 1 tablespoon for sauce and 1 tablespoon for coating chicken (optional).
  • 1 teaspoon Sesame oil Added at the end for flavor.
  • Red pepper flakes Optional, for heat.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, broth, rice vinegar, honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.
  2. Toast cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes until they release a nutty aroma, then remove to a plate.
  3. Optional: Toss chicken with 1 tablespoon cornstarch and a pinch of salt and pepper to help it brown.
Cooking
  1. Heat 1 to 2 tablespoons of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat.
  2. Add chicken to the pan in a single layer and cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until browned and cooked through.
  3. Add bell pepper and broccoli or snap peas to the pan, cooking for an additional 2 to 4 minutes until bright and crisp tender.
  4. Stir in minced garlic and ginger for 30 seconds ensuring they do not scorch.
  5. Pour in the prepared sauce and stir as it bubbles and thickens for about 1 to 2 minutes.
  6. Turn off the heat, stir in toasted cashews and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Notes

This dish pairs well with steamed rice, noodles, or a side of vegetables. Consider keeping the cashews separate if preparing ahead to maintain their crunch.