Cashew Chicken Recipe – Quick, Crispy & Flavorful
The cashew chicken recipe is a beloved Chinese-American classic that combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a savory-sweet sauce. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavors right at home.
Originating from the fusion of Cantonese cooking and American tastes, cashew chicken is cherished for its crisp-tender chicken, aromatic vegetables, and nutty crunch from roasted cashews. It’s a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with rice or noodles, making it a family favorite.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp cornstarch
For the Sauce:
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 2 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- ½ cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (slurry)
Vegetables & Nuts:
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup unsalted roasted cashews
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Optional for Frying:
- 2–3 tbsp vegetable oil (for stir-frying)
Step by Step Cooking Guide
- Marinate the chicken – In a medium bowl, combine chicken pieces, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and 1 tsp cornstarch. Let it marinate for 15–20 minutes.
- Prepare the sauce – In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, honey, sesame oil, and chicken broth. Set aside.
- Cook the chicken – Heat 1–2 tbsp oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Stir-fry vegetables – In the same skillet, add a little oil if needed. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic for 2–3 minutes until slightly tender but crisp.
- Combine chicken and sauce – Return chicken to skillet, pour in sauce, and stir well. Bring to a simmer for 2 minutes.
- Thicken the sauce – Add cornstarch slurry while stirring. Cook 1–2 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Add cashews & garnish – Stir in cashews and sprinkle green onions on top. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time & Serving Size
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Serving Size: 1 cup chicken with vegetables (4 servings)
Tips & Variations
- Crispier chicken: Coat chicken in a thin layer of cornstarch and fry in more oil for extra crunch.
- Vegetable swaps: Add broccoli, snow peas, or carrots for extra nutrition.
- Spicy version: Add 1 tsp chili paste or red pepper flakes.
- Gluten-free: Use tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.
- Meal prep: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days; reheat gently to maintain texture.
Nutrition Info (Per Serving – Approximate)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 8 g |
Healthy Alternatives
- Low-oil: Use non-stick spray instead of frying oil.
- Low-sugar: Reduce honey or use a natural sweetener.
- Keto-Friendly: Skip bell peppers and onions; keep chicken and cashews.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos and check sauces for gluten.
- Air Fryer Option: Air fry chicken pieces for 10–12 minutes at 400°F for crispy results.
Serving Suggestion
Serve this cashew chicken recipe hot over steamed white or brown rice, cauliflower rice, or even quinoa for a modern twist. Garnish with extra cashews and sliced green onions for presentation and crunch.
This dish is perfect for busy weeknights, family dinners, or meal prepping. With tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a savory-sweet sauce, it’s an easy, flavorful recipe you’ll return to again and again.
FAQ’s
Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless thighs work well and stay extra juicy. Adjust cooking time slightly.
Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, replace chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth.
Q3: How can I make it less sweet?
Reduce the honey or sugar by half. Taste the sauce before combining.
Q4: Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, store sauce in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add fresh cornstarch slurry when cooking.
Q5: How do I keep cashews crunchy?
Add cashews at the very end of cooking, just before serving.
