Easy Authentic Cashew Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together tender pieces of chicken, crunchy cashews, and a flavorful sauce that’s both sweet and savory. The vibrant mix of bell peppers and green onions adds a fresh crunch, making each bite exciting and satisfying. It’s a classic dish that’s simple to whip up but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen.
I love making this recipe when I want something quick but still special. The sauce comes together with just a few everyday ingredients, and the cashews add a wonderful texture that makes this dish stand out. I usually use bite-sized chicken chunks to make it easy to eat, and sometimes I toss in a little extra garlic because I just can’t resist that aroma.
One of my favorite ways to enjoy this dish is over a bed of steaming white rice or even fried rice for extra comfort. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner but also hits the spot when friends come over. Everyone always asks me for the recipe, and I think it’s because it’s both simple and so satisfying. If you haven’t tried making cashew chicken at home, this easy authentic version is definitely a great place to start!
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Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breast for tender, lean meat. You can swap with chicken thighs if you prefer more juiciness and flavor.
Cashews: Raw cashews work best to toast just before cooking for extra crunch. If nuts aren’t your thing, try almonds or peanuts, but cashews add a nice creamy texture.
Sauce ingredients: Soy sauce is key for that salty depth. For gluten-free, pick tamari or coconut aminos as a substitute. Hoisin and oyster sauces add sweetness and umami; vegetarian versions can replace oyster sauce with mushroom stir-fry sauce.
Veggies: Broccoli is classic here, but feel free to add bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots to mix things up and boost color.
How to Get the Chicken Tender and Sauce Perfectly Thickened?
Cooking the chicken just right is crucial—overcooked chicken becomes tough. Here’s how to nail it:
- Cut the chicken into even bite-sized pieces so it cooks uniformly.
- High heat helps sear the chicken quickly and lock in juices. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until no longer pink.
- For sauce thickness, mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to the pan. This slurry prevents lumps and helps the sauce cling beautifully to the chicken and veggies.
- Add the slurry slowly and stir constantly. As the sauce bubbles, it will thicken within a minute or two.
This simple technique ensures your cashew chicken is saucy without being runny, and the chicken stays juicy.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large skillet or wok – perfect for stir-frying chicken and veggies quickly and evenly.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps you stir without scratching your pan.
- Small bowl – to mix the sauce ingredients together easily.
- Measuring spoons and cups – for accurate sauce flavors every time.
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken and vegetables safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken with tofu or tempeh for a tasty vegetarian option that soaks up the sauce well.
- Use cashew butter in the sauce for a richer, nutty flavor if you don’t have whole cashews.
- Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and sweetness.
- Include a splash of fresh lime juice at the end to brighten the flavors and add a zesty kick.
Easy Authentic Cashew Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup raw cashew nuts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- ½ cup green onions, sliced (for garnish)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or any neutral oil)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
For The Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or chili flakes (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry for thickening)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Authentic Cashew Chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 15 minutes for cooking. So, in total, plan for around 30 minutes, making it a quick and tasty meal perfect for weeknights.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and chili paste. Set this sauce mixture aside while you cook.
2. Toast the Cashews and Cook Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the cashew nuts and stir them frequently until they turn golden brown. Remove the toasted cashews from the pan and set aside. Next, add the chicken pieces to the hot pan and stir-fry them until they are fully cooked and lightly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables:
In the same pan, add a little more oil if needed. Add the chopped onions, minced garlic, and ginger. Sauté them for about 2 minutes until fragrant and the onions start to soften. Then, add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for 2 to 3 minutes, until they’re bright green and tender-crisp.
4. Combine and Finish Cooking:
Return the cooked chicken and toasted cashews to the pan with vegetables. Pour the sauce mixture over everything and stir well to combine. Add the cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring constantly, as the sauce thickens and coats all the ingredients evenly.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the pan from heat. Garnish your cashew chicken with the sliced green onions and sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot over steamed white rice or noodles for a delicious meal.
Enjoy your delightful and easy-to-make Authentic Cashew Chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to fully thaw the chicken in the fridge overnight or use the cold water thawing method. Pat it dry before cooking to avoid extra moisture in the pan.
What Can I Substitute for Cashews?
If you’re allergic or don’t have cashews, try almonds or peanuts for a similar crunch. For a nut-free option, roasted chickpeas can add texture without nuts.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover cashew chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warming.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with firm tofu or tempeh and use a vegetarian oyster sauce or mushroom stir-fry sauce to keep that rich umami flavor.
