Name: Cashew Chicken Stir Fry
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: ½ cup Soy sauce (low sodium); 1 tbsp Rice vinegar; 1 tbsp Hoisin sauce; 1 tbsp Brown sugar; 1 tsp Sesame oil; 1 tsp Sriracha; 2 tsp Garlic (minced); 1 tsp Ginger (minced); 1 lb Chicken breast (boneless, skinless); ½ tsp Salt; ¼ tsp Black pepper; ¼ cup Cornstarch; ¼ cup Olive oil (divided); 1 small Onion (sliced); 2 medium Zucchini (cut into thick half moons); 8 oz Mushrooms (sliced or small whole); 1 cup Cashews (whole, unsalted)

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There’s something undeniably comforting about a hearty dish like Cashew Chicken Stir Fry. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma of the sizzling vegetables filled my kitchen, making my mouth water with anticipation. This dish brings together tender pieces of chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant veggies, all tossed in a savory sauce that makes every bite a delightful experience. No matter how hectic the day, cooking Cashew Chicken Stir Fry always feels like a special occasion. It’s the perfect recipe to whip up when you have family or friends over, or just a cozy night in with your favorite movie.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
30 mins

Prep Time:
15 mins

Cook Time:
15 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
450 kcal

Protein:
32 g

Diet:
Whole30, Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
22 g

Tools Used:
Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Chef’s Knife, Wooden Spoon

Why This Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Is So Good

Quick and Easy to Prepare

You might appreciate how effortlessly this dish comes together. With just a handful of ingredients, Cashew Chicken Stir Fry can be on your table in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Flavorful Ingredients

The combination of crunchy cashews and tender chicken drizzled with a savory sauce is a flavor explosion. Each ingredient complements the others, creating a delightful balance that’s sure to please your palate.

Versatile and Customizable

One of the best things about Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is its flexibility. You can easily swap out vegetables or adjust the level of spice to suit your taste. Whether you want to add more zucchini or throw in some bell peppers, the possibilities are endless!

Healthy and Wholesome

This dish is not only delicious but also healthy. Packed with protein from the chicken and tons of nutrients from the veggies, it’s a meal you can feel good about. Plus, it’s gluten-free if you use the right sauces.

Perfect for Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers, Cashew Chicken Stir Fry tastes even better the next day. The flavors meld beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches.

Kid-Friendly

This dish is a hit with kids too! The crunch of the cashews and the sweetness of the sauce make it appealing to even the pickiest eaters. It’s a great way to sneak in veggies while keeping them engaged with fun textures.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

The ingredients for Cashew Chicken Stir Fry are not only wholesome but also work in perfect harmony to create a fantastic dish. Each component plays a crucial role: the chicken provides protein, the cashews add a delightful crunch, and the fresh vegetables bring color and nutrients. Together, they create a balance of flavors and textures that’s simply irresistible.

Soy sauce (½ cup, low sodium): Adds savory depth, enhancing the dish’s overall flavor.
Rice vinegar (1 tbsp): This adds a touch of acidity that brightens the other flavors.
Hoisin sauce (1 tbsp): A sweet and tangy sauce that complements the savory elements.
Brown sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the saltiness and adds a slight sweetness.
Sesame oil (1 tsp): Infuses a nutty flavor that enhances the dish.
Sriracha (1 tsp): For a spicy kick that elevates the flavor profile.
Garlic (2 tsp, minced): The aromatic base that adds depth to the dish.
Ginger (1 tsp, minced): Provides a warm spiciness that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Chicken breast (1 lb, boneless, skinless): The main protein source that makes this a filling meal.
Salt (½ tsp): Enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Black pepper (¼ tsp): Adds subtle heat and flavor.
Cornstarch (¼ cup): Used to coat the chicken for a crispy texture.
Olive oil (¼ cup, divided): For cooking the chicken and vegetables.
Onion (1 small, sliced): Adds sweetness and texture.
Zucchini (2 medium, cut into thick half moons): Provides freshness and a lovely crunch.
Mushrooms (8 oz, sliced or small whole): Adds umami and a meaty texture.
Cashews (1 cup, whole, unsalted): The star ingredient that adds crunch and richness.

How to Prepare Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

Getting started with Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a breeze. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. You’ll want to pay attention to the colors and textures as you cook, ensuring everything comes together perfectly.

Combine all the sauce ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, sesame oil, and sriracha until smooth. Set this aside as it will be the flavor powerhouse of your dish.
Prepare the chicken: Cut your chicken breast into bite-size pieces. In a zip-close bag, season the pieces with salt and black pepper, then toss them with cornstarch until they are evenly coated. This step is crucial for that lovely crispy texture.
Heat the oil: In a large wok or skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking; this is key to getting those vegetables to char beautifully.
Add the vegetables: Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion, zucchini, and mushrooms. Stir-fry them for about 3 to 5 minutes or until they are lightly charred and tender-crisp. Then, remove them from the wok into a bowl and set aside.
Cook the chicken: In the same wok, add the remaining olive oil and heat it up. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer. Allow them to cook without stirring for a few minutes until they turn golden brown and crispy. Depending on the size of your pan, you may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding.
Combine everything: Once the chicken is cooked through, pour in the prepared sauce. Cook for a couple of minutes until the sauce thickens slightly, then add the cooked vegetables and cashews. Stir everything together, making sure the sauce evenly coats all the ingredients.
Serve and enjoy: Serve your Cashew Chicken Stir Fry over rice if desired. Enjoy this vibrant and flavorful dish with your loved ones!

Things Worth Knowing

Cutting chicken: Ensure your chicken is cut into uniform pieces for even cooking.
High heat cooking: Stir-frying requires high heat to achieve that signature char and crispiness.
Resting veggies: Allowing the cooked vegetables to rest in a bowl helps prevent them from becoming overcooked when added back.
Cooking in batches: If your pan is small, cook the chicken in batches to ensure optimal browning.

Helpful Notes about Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

As you prepare Cashew Chicken Stir Fry, keep these helpful tips in mind to ensure the best results. Following them will elevate your dish and make the cooking process smoother.

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
Freezing: You can freeze the stir fry for up to two months. When reheating, add a splash of water to maintain moisture.
Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Ingredient variations: Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli also work well.
Serving suggestions: Serve with a garnish of sliced green onions or sesame seeds for an added touch.

What to Serve With Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

When serving Cashew Chicken Stir Fry, the options are endless! Here are some wonderful ideas to help you create a complete meal:

Steamed rice: A classic pairing, the fluffy rice soaks up the delicious sauce.
Quinoa: For a healthier alternative, serve with quinoa which adds a nutty flavor.
Fresh salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stir fry.
Spring rolls: Crispy spring rolls make for a delightful appetizer before the main dish.
Fruit platter: Serve a light fruit platter for a refreshing end to the meal.
Occasions: This dish is perfect for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep for busy weeks!

FAQ

Yes, you can use frozen chicken for Cashew Chicken Stir Fry. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cutting it into pieces for even cooking. You can thaw the chicken overnight in the refrigerator or use the quick method of placing the sealed chicken in cold water for a couple of hours.

For Cashew Chicken Stir Fry, a variety of colorful vegetables works best. Along with zucchini and mushrooms, you can add bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots. The key is to choose vegetables that cook quickly and retain their crunch, enhancing the texture and flavor of the dish.

You can easily adjust the spice level in Cashew Chicken Stir Fry by modifying the amount of sriracha you use. If you prefer less heat, start with half a teaspoon and add more to taste. Alternatively, you can replace sriracha with a milder sauce or omit it completely for a family-friendly version.

Yes, Cashew Chicken Stir Fry can be made gluten-free. Simply choose a gluten-free soy sauce and ensure any other sauces used, like hoisin, are also gluten-free. This allows everyone to enjoy this delicious meal without worry.

Conclusion

In summary, Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish that effortlessly combines hearty ingredients with an array of textures. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, this recipe is sure to impress and satisfy. I encourage you to give it a try for your next weeknight dinner and experience the delightful flavors yourself!