Scrumptious Cashew & Chicken Recipe

Cashew & chicken is a classic and delicious combination that brings together tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and colorful vegetables in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

To make this dish, you’ll need:

• 2 chicken breasts or thighs, diced
• 1 cup unsalted cashews
• 2 bell peppers, sliced
• 3 green onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation

Start by dicing the chicken into bite-sized pieces and slicing the bell peppers. Chop the green onions and mince the garlic and ginger.

Cooking the Chicken

In a bowl, marinate the diced chicken with soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and pepper for about 15 minutes. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add a bit of oil. Stir-fry the chicken until fully cooked and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.

Cooking the Cashews

In the same skillet, add the cashews and toast them until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Combining Ingredients

In the skillet, add a bit more oil if needed and stir-fry the minced garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add the sliced bell peppers and cook until they are tender but still crisp. Return the chicken and cashews to the skillet and stir to combine.

Making the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sesame oil. Dissolve the cornstarch in a little bit of water and add to the sauce mixture. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet.

Final Cooking Steps

Simmer the stir-fry for a few minutes until the sauce has thickened and everything is well-coated and heated through.

Presentation

Serve the cashew & chicken stir-fry hot, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Pair with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Health Benefits

This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and cashews, and the fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. The combination of flavors and textures makes it both nutritious and delicious.

Variations

For a spicy kick, add some red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce. You can also add other vegetables like broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for more variety.

Tips for Success

Ensure the chicken is cooked thoroughly by checking that it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Toast the cashews carefully to prevent burning and enhance their flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
   • Yes, chicken thighs are a great alternative and can add more flavor and juiciness to the dish.
2. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
   • Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth in the sauce.
3. What other vegetables can I use?
   • Broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and zucchini are all great additions to this stir-fry.
4. How do I store leftovers?
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
5. Can I prepare this dish in advance?
   • Yes, you can prepare the chicken and vegetables ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble and cook the dish just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Scrumptious cashew & chicken is a delightful and easy meal that brings together the best of flavors and textures. With its tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the delicious combination of tastes and nutrition.

Yield: 2

Scrumptious Cashew & Chicken Recipe

Print

Cashew & chicken is a classic and delicious combination that brings together tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and colorful vegetables in a savory sauce. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner that’s both satisfying and healthy.

Ingredients

• 300 g Chicken Fillets *Cut into bite-size pieces
• Salt & White Pepper
• 1-2 tablespoons Potato Starch OR Corn Starch
• 1 tablespoon Oil
• 50 g (1/3 cup) Roasted OR Toasted Cashew Nuts
• Finely chopped Spring Onion
• Toasted Sesame Seeds
• Sauce
• 1 clove Garlic *grated
• 1 small piece Ginger *grated
• 1/2 tablespoon Sugar
• 1 tablespoon Soy Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Oyster Sauce *OR extra Soy Sauce
• 1 tablespoon Mirin
• 2 tablespoons Water OR Sake (Rice Wine)
• 1 teaspoon Rice Vinegar
• 1/4 teaspoon Chilli Flakes *optional, you may wish to add more

Instructions

1. Combine all the Sauce ingredients in a small bowl. If you don’t have Oyster Sauce, use Soy Sauce only, but you might wish to more Sugar.
2. Cut Chicken Fillets into bite-size pieces, season with Salt and White Pepper, and coat with Potato Starch.
3. Heat Oil in a frying pan over medium heat, and cook Chicken pieces. When nicely browned and cooked, add Cashew Nuts, and stir for a few minutes.
4. Add the Sauce, and stir and toss until the sauce thickens. Sprinkle with some finely chopped Spring Onion and Toasted Sesame seeds, and serve.