Cashew Chicken

Cashew Chicken is a delicious and satisfying dish that brings together tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and crisp vegetables in a rich, flavorful sauce. Inspired by classic Asian stir-fry, this homemade version is quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners or casual entertaining. The combination of soy sauce, oyster sauce, and hoisin gives the dish a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tangy notes. The bold flavors of garlic and ginger bring depth, and bell peppers provide a colorful, crisp contrast. Served over a bed of steamed rice, this Cashew Chicken is both comforting and full of flavor.Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned home chef, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your rotation.

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Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized chunks

• 1 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tsp cornstarch

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce

• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce

• 1–2 tsp sugar (adjust to taste)

• 1 tsp rice vinegar

• ½ cup chicken broth

For the Stir-Fry:

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 medium onion, roughly chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips

• ½ cup unsalted roasted cashews

• 1–2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

• Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of water to create a slurry for thickening.

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tsp cornstarch.Set aside for 10 minutes to ensure the flavors permeate and the dish reaches optimal tenderness.

2. Prepare the Sauce:
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, sugar, rice vinegar, and chicken broth until the sugar fully dissolves.

3. Cook the Chicken:

Warm one tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 4–5 minutes, or until golden and nearly fully cooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

4. Sauté the Veggies & Aromatics:
In the same pan, pour in the rest of the oil and cook the onions until they begin to soften. Next, add the garlic and ginger, stirring for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Toss in the bell pepper and snap peas (if you’d like), then stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes until they’re tender-crisp and retain their vibrant color.

5. Bring it All Together:
Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the sauce and stir well. Let everything simmer gently for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.Add the cashews and green onions, then pour in the cornstarch mixture and stir until well combined. Keep cooking for an additional 1–2 minutes until the sauce thickens.

6. Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot over freshly steamed rice.

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Alternative Tips for Cashew Chicken:

1. Chicken Substitute:
   Thighs bring more flavor and moisture — try them instead of chicken breasts for a tastier result.
2. No Hoisin Sauce?
   For a hoisin sauce substitute, mix together soy sauce, a little peanut butter, and a drizzle of honey for a quick and flavorful alternative.
3. Make It Spicy:
   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a sliced chili for some heat.
4. Vegetable Variations:
   Feel free to add snap peas, broccoli, zucchini, or mushrooms—whatever you have on hand.
5. Low-Sodium Option:
   Use low-sodium soy sauce and unsalted chicken broth to control salt levels.
6. Gluten-Free Version:
   Swap regular soy sauce for tamari or coconut aminos to make it gluten-free.
7. Nut-Free Alternative:
   If you have a nut allergy, you can replace cashews with sunflower seeds or simply omit them altogether.
8. Serve It Differently:
   Try serving it over noodles, quinoa, or cauliflower rice instead of regular steamed rice.

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conclusion

Cashew Chicken is a flexible and tasty dish that features tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a flavorful sauce, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion. Whether you follow the recipe exactly or make adjustments based on your preferences or what you have on hand, this dish is easy to customize. You can experiment with different vegetables, switch up the proteins, or adjust the level of sweetness and spice to suit your taste. It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes Cashew Chicken a standout option for any occasion. Serve it over rice or noodles, and enjoy a meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.