Introduction

Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a delicious and healthy meal that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and crunchy cashews in a savory sauce. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavors that will delight your taste buds. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, it brings together nutritious ingredients in an easy-to-follow recipe that the whole family can enjoy.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

Chicken breast – 1 pound, cut into bite-sized pieces
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon
Pepper – 1/4 teaspoon
Cornstarch – 1 tablespoon
Oil – 2 tablespoons (for cooking)
Cashews – 1/2 cup, roasted
Bell peppers – 1 cup, sliced
Broccoli – 1 cup, cut into florets
Green onions – 1/2 cup, chopped
Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
Soy sauce – 1/4 cup
Honey – 1 tablespoon
Rice vinegar – 1 tablespoon

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Cook Time – 10 minutes
Total Time – 25 minutes
Yield – 4 servings

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Prepare the Chicken

Cut the chicken breast into small, bite-sized pieces. In a bowl, combine the chicken with soy sauce, cornstarch, and a splash of rice vinegar. Marinate for 10-15 minutes to enhance flavor and texture.

Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop the bell peppers and the broccoli into small, manageable pieces. Slice the onions and shred the carrots. Mince the garlic and ginger, setting them aside for later use.

Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the sauce ingredients: soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and more rice vinegar. Set the sauce aside.

Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Stir-Fry the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add a bit more oil if necessary, then add the minced garlic and ginger. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the onions, broccoli, bell peppers, and carrots. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are tender but still crisp, approximately 4-5 minutes.

Combine Everything

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir well to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and sprinkle with toasted cashews. Serve immediately over rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Notes

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Customization Options

Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables according to your preference or what you have on hand. Great options include snap peas, carrots, or zucchini.

Servings

This recipe serves approximately 4 people, making it a great option for a family meal or meal prep for the week.

Cook techniques

Stir-Frying

Stir-frying is a cooking technique where ingredients are quickly cooked in a hot pan with a small amount of oil. This method allows the vegetables to retain their color, texture, and nutrients while infusing them with flavor.

Marinating

Marinating involves soaking meat in a seasoned liquid before cooking. This technique enhances the flavor and tenderness of the chicken, allowing it to absorb the marinade’s spices and ingredients.

Toasting

Toasting nuts, like cashews, enhances their flavor and texture. This process creates a deeper taste and makes them crunchier, perfect for adding to stir-fried dishes.

Vegetable Prep

Proper vegetable preparation, such as slicing and dicing, ensures even cooking and a pleasant texture. Uniform pieces allow for consistent heat distribution during stir-frying.

FAQ

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with other proteins like tofu, beef, shrimp, or pork to suit your taste preferences.

What vegetables can I add to the stir-fry?

You can add a variety of vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to enhance flavor and nutrition.

Is it necessary to use cashews?

While cashews add a unique flavor and crunch, you can use other nuts like almonds or peanuts if preferred.

How can I make this dish gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, ensure that the soy sauce or any other sauces used are labeled gluten-free.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can chop the ingredients and marinate the chicken beforehand, but it is best to stir-fry just before serving for optimal freshness.

Conclusion

Enjoy your Cashew Chicken Stir Fry as a delicious and healthy meal option that’s easy to prepare. This dish packs a punch of flavor with a mix of tender chicken, fresh vegetables, and crunchy cashews, making it a perfect choice for a quick weeknight dinner.

More recipes suggestions and combination

Vegetable Fried Rice

Pair your Cashew Chicken Stir Fry with a side of Vegetable Fried Rice for a hearty meal that complements the flavors of the stir fry.

Honey Garlic Shrimp

For seafood lovers, try Honey Garlic Shrimp as an alternative protein choice that brings a sweet and savory taste.

Teriyaki Tofu

Opt for Teriyaki Tofu for a vegetarian twist that absorbs the delicious sauce and pairs wonderfully with the cashews.

Asian Noodle Salad

An Asian Noodle Salad can serve as a refreshing side dish, adding a cool element to your meal with a mix of crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing.

Steamed Broccoli

Serve with steamed broccoli to enhance the nutritional value of your meal while keeping it light and healthy.

Spicy Szechuan Noodles

For those who enjoy a kick, Spicy Szechuan Noodles can add heat and a delightful contrast to the sweeter elements of the stir fry.

Sesame Ginger Dressing

Drizzle some Sesame Ginger Dressing over a fresh salad for a flavorful addition that complements the Asian-inspired themes of your dish.