Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!}

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cashew Chicken is a flavorful stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken pieces, crunchy cashews, and crisp vegetables tossed in a rich, savory sauce. With a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and umami flavors, this homemade version rivals your favorite takeout and comes together quickly in one pan. It’s ideal for a weeknight dinner and pairs beautifully with steamed rice.

ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

chicken breast or thighscornstarchsoy saucesesame oilrice vinegarhoisin saucesugarminced garlicfresh gingerroasted unsalted cashewsbell pepperbroccoli (optional)green onionsvegetable oilwater

directions

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss with cornstarch to lightly coat.

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, garlic, ginger, and water to make the sauce.

Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

Add the chicken to the pan in a single layer and cook until golden and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed, then stir-fry the bell pepper and broccoli until just tender, about 3–4 minutes.

Return the chicken to the pan along with the sauce and stir to combine.

Add the roasted cashews and green onions, tossing everything until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken and veggies evenly.

Serve hot over steamed rice.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 4.Preparation time: 15 minutesCooking time: 15 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Use chicken thighs for extra tenderness and flavor.

Add mushrooms, snap peas, or carrots for variety.

Make it spicy by adding red pepper flakes or a splash of sriracha.

Substitute tofu for a vegetarian version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.Add a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use raw cashews?

Yes, but toast them in a dry pan until golden for better flavor.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and confirm all sauces are GF-certified.

Can I make this ahead?

Yes, prep all ingredients and cook when ready to serve for best texture.

What kind of rice goes best?

Jasmine rice, basmati, or brown rice are all great choices.

Can I freeze Cashew Chicken?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but it can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat thoroughly.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger pan or cook in batches to avoid overcrowding.

Why is my chicken not browning?

Make sure the pan is hot and avoid overcrowding. Cook in batches if needed.

Conclusion

Cashew Chicken is a quick, delicious dish that brings the bold flavors of your favorite takeout into your home kitchen. With simple ingredients and easy prep, it’s a go-to recipe for busy nights and guaranteed to satisfy any craving for Asian-inspired comfort food.

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