This Cashew Chicken recipe is a quick, flavorful stir-fry that rivals your favorite takeout! Juicy, tender pieces of chicken are stir-fried with crunchy roasted cashews, crisp bell peppers, and a savory-sweet sauce that combines soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of honey. The result is a dish with the perfect balance of textures and flavors — nutty, salty, and slightly sweet. Served over steamed rice or noodles, this easy homemade version is not only healthier but also faster and fresher than ordering takeout.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp rice vinegar
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1 tbsp olive oil (or vegetable oil for stir-frying)
For the Sauce:
3 tbsp soy sauce
2 tbsp hoisin sauce
1 tbsp oyster sauce
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1/4 cup chicken broth (or water)
1 tbsp cornstarch, mixed with 2 tbsp water (to thicken)
For the Stir-Fry:
1 tbsp olive oil (for stir-frying)
1 medium onion, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
1/2 cup unsalted cashews (lightly toasted, optional)
2-3 stalks green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Chicken:
In a bowl, mix the 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp rice vinegar, and 1/2 tsp sesame oil with the 2 tbsp cornstarch. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat. Set aside for about 10 minutes to marinate.
Make the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, 2 tbsp hoisin sauce, 1 tbsp oyster sauce, 2 tbsp rice vinegar, 1 tbsp honey (or brown sugar), and 1/2 tsp sesame oil. Add 1/4 cup chicken broth (or water). Mix the 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water to create a slurry, then stir into the sauce mixture. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add another 1 tbsp oil. Add the sliced onion and red bell pepper and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Combine Chicken and Sauce:
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well to coat. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.
Add Cashews and Garnish:
Stir in the toasted cashews and cook for another minute. Garnish with chopped green onions.
Serve:
Serve your homemade cashew chicken over steamed rice, noodles, or your favorite side. Enjoy your takeout-inspired dish, better than the restaurant!
Why It’s Better Than Takeout:
Healthier Ingredients: Lower in sodium and no MSG
Fresh and Customizable: Choose your favorite vegetables or control spice levels
Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 20-30 minutes
Enjoy this Cashew Chicken for a satisfying, homemade dinner that brings the taste of your favorite takeout right to your kitchen!
This Cashew Chicken recipe is savory, sweet, and crunchy with a flavorful sauce that brings everything together.
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