Chinese Cashew Chicken
Chinese Cashew Chicken is a flavorful stir-fry dish combining tender chunks of chicken with crisp vegetables and crunchy cashews. This Chinese-American cuisine favorite features a savory-sweet sauce made with soy sauce, honey, and a touch of chili. Quick to prepare in about 35 minutes, it's a balanced meal that's both satisfying and adaptable to personal tastes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors in every bite.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet or wok
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Sharp knife
- 1 Measuring cups and spoons
- 1 Wooden spoon or spatula
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1 to taste Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 whole red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup frozen shelled edamame
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup roasted, unsalted cashews
Sauce
- ¼ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice wine vinegar optional
- 1 to taste Asian garlic chili sauce
- ½ tbsp ground ginger or fresh ginger, grated
Optional Ingredients
- 2 tbsp sesame oil for additional flavor
- 1 to taste yellow or black sesame seeds for garnish
- 2 whole green onions, sliced, for garnish
- 1 to taste fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- In a large ziplock bag, mix the chicken cubes, cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Shake to coat evenly
- Heat the olive oil (and sesame oil if using) in a large skillet over medium-high heat
- Add the coated chicken to the skillet. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, until the chicken is 90% cooked
- Add the broccoli florets, bell pepper slices, edamame, and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir-fry for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp
- While the vegetables are cooking, whisk together all the sauce ingredients in a small bowl
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Add the cashews
- Let simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly and coats all the ingredients
- If desired, garnish with sesame seeds
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with slices of green onions and fresh parsley
Notes
- Feel free to add or substitute vegetables according to your preference. Some suggestions include snap peas, carrots, or water chestnuts.
- The calorie count is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portions.
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of Asian garlic chili sauce or add red pepper flakes to taste.
Nutritional Benefits
- High in protein: The chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle health and satiety.
- Heart-healthy fats: Cashews and olive oil offer monounsaturated fats that can help improve cholesterol levels.
- Nutrient-rich vegetables: Broccoli is high in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
- Bell peppers add vitamins A and C.
- Balanced macronutrients: The dish combines proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates for a well-rounded meal.
- Mineral boost: Cashews provide magnesium and zinc, important for various bodily functions.
- Lower sodium option: Using low-sodium soy sauce helps control salt intake without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a complete meal
- For a low-carb option, serve with cauliflower rice
- Pair with a light soup like egg drop or hot and sour soup for a restaurant-style experience
- A slightly sweet Riesling or a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements this dish well
Meal Prep Tips
- Prep vegetables and cube chicken in advance for quicker cooking
- The dish reheats well, making it great for next-day lunches
- Store sauce ingredients separately if prepping far in advance
Customization Ideas
- Substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian version
- Add water chestnuts or bamboo shoots for extra crunch
- Increase the chili sauce or add red pepper flakes for a spicier dish
