easy recipe for cashew chicken
The Best easy recipe for cashew chicken
Oh, I just have to share this cashew chicken recipe with you—it’s one of those simple, foolproof dishes that feels fancy but is actually just a bunch of wholesome ingredients brought together in a way that makes everyone at the table happy. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or something we serve at a family get-together. The creamy, slightly sweet sauce is rich but not heavy, and the tender chicken is so easy to cook that even my kids—who are usually picky about meat—will eat it straight up. No weird sauces, no extra steps, just good food that’s as comforting as it is healthy. And let’s be real, cashews are a great way to sneak in some healthy fats without making the dish feel like a calorie bomb. It’s got protein, fiber, and all the vitamins you need without feeling like you’re sacrificing flavor. Plus, it’s versatile enough to be dressed up with extra veggies or served over rice, quinoa, or even just steamed greens if you’re watching your carb intake. My husband always says it’s the kind of meal that makes him forget he’s eating healthy—like he’s just indulging in something delicious, not something nutritious. And honestly? That’s the best kind of food.
Easy Cashew Chicken
A quick and creamy dish featuring tender chicken coated in a savory cashew sauce, perfect for a light yet flavorful meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup raw cashews (soaked in hot water for 10 mins)
- 1 cup chicken broth
- ½ cup coconut milk
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp sriracha (optional)
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
- 1 green onion (sliced)
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp toasted sesame oil
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking, or heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
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2 In a bowl, mix soaked cashews with chicken broth, coconut milk, soy sauce, honey, garlic, ginger, and sriracha. Blend until smooth. Stir in cornstarch slurry and cook for 2 minutes to thicken.
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3 Heat olive oil in the skillet. Add chicken pieces and cook until fully cooked (6-7 mins). Remove and set aside.
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4 Return chicken to the skillet, pour sauce over, and stir to coat evenly. Simmer for 5 minutes. Garnish with green onions, sesame seeds, and sesame oil.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor or blender
- Skillet or wok
- Oven (optional for baking)
- Tongs
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Cashew Chicken Works
This cashew chicken recipe is always a crowd-pleaser because it’s simple enough to whip up in under an hour without fuss, yet packed with bold flavors that keep everyone talking. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you need a hearty meal that feels special, or for when you’re hosting a family gathering where you want something comforting but not too heavy—no one likes a soggy mess when they’re already stuffed. Plus, the creamy sauce hides the texture of the chicken so well that even picky eaters won’t notice it’s not traditional. It’s a go-to for me because it’s forgiving, delicious, and never fails to bring a smile to faces young and old.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cashew Chicken
1. What are the key ingredients I’ll need for the Easy Cashew Chicken recipe? The essential ingredients include chicken breast or thighs, unsalted cashews (soaked in warm water for 15 minutes to soften), soy sauce, garlic, ginger, green onions, cornstarch (for coating), and optional add-ins like sesame oil, honey, or a splash of lime juice for extra flavor.
2. How do I prepare the cashews for this recipe? Soak the cashews in warm water for about 15 minutes to make them softer. Drain and rinse before using them in the sauce—this helps them blend smoothly into the dish.
3. Can I substitute chicken breast for thighs in this recipe? Yes, you can use chicken breast, but thighs tend to stay juicier and are often preferred for this dish. If using breast, cut it into smaller pieces to ensure even cooking.
4. What’s the best way to cook the chicken for this recipe? Pan-sear or air-fry the chicken until it’s golden and cooked through (about 6–7 minutes per side for breast, or 5–6 minutes for thighs). Remove it, then set aside while you prepare the sauce.
5. How do I make the cashew sauce smooth and creamy? Blend the soaked cashews with soy sauce, garlic, ginger, green onions, and a little water until silky smooth. For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of cornstarch mixed with water to thicken the sauce slightly before blending.
