Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry

This Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, vibrant vegetables, and a savory sauce, making it the perfect quick and healthy weeknight meal. Packed with flavor, texture, and nutrients, it’s easy to make and a delightful dish the whole family will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar creates a balanced, sweet-savory sauce that coats everything beautifully.
• Healthy: This dish is filled with lean protein, colorful vegetables, and healthy fats from the cashews.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different twist!

Ingredients

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

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
• 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari (for gluten-free)
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Directions

1. Cook the Chicken

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.

2. Sauté the Cashews

In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil. Add the cashews and sauté for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Vegetables

Add the bell peppers, broccoli, and carrot to the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are just tender but still crisp.

4. Add Garlic and Ginger

Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

5. Make the Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, and the cornstarch mixture. Pour the sauce over the vegetables and stir to coat. Let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Combine and Serve

Return the cooked chicken and cashews to the pan, and toss everything together until evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.

7. Garnish and Serve

Garnish with sesame seeds and green onions. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Kcal: 350 kcal per serving
• Servings: 4 servings

Variations

• Protein: Swap chicken for tofu, shrimp, or beef for a different protein source.
• Veggies: Add extra veggies like snap peas, mushrooms, or bok choy for more variety.
• Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha for some heat if you like a spicier dish.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option?

Yes, tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prep the chicken and vegetables in advance, and store the sauce separately. When ready to serve, stir-fry the vegetables and add the cooked chicken, then add the sauce to finish.

What can I serve this dish with?

This dish is fantastic served with steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa for a healthy and filling meal.

Conclusion

This Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry is a deliciously balanced, easy-to-make meal that will satisfy your cravings for something flavorful and healthy. Packed with tender chicken, crisp veggies, and crunchy cashews, it’s a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy this simple, vibrant dish that’s sure to become a family favorite!

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