When I first tried Chinese cashew chicken, it felt like a culinary awakening. The crunch of roasted cashews combined with tender chicken and vibrant vegetables captivated my taste buds. But what can you serve alongside this dish?
I’ve found that a bowl of fluffy jasmine rice serves as the perfect canvas. Its mild flavor soaks up the savory sauce, making each bite pure bliss.
I’ve also had success pairing it with a refreshing cucumber salad—its crunch perfectly balances the heat and richness of the chicken. Now, let’s dive into the delicious world of Chinese cashew chicken!
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What is Chinese Cashew Chicken?
Chinese cashew chicken is a dish that boasts a balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy elements. Originating from Chinese cuisine but widely popular in Western restaurants, it features succulent chicken pieces stir-fried with colorful veggies.
The highlight, of course, is the cashews—nutty and roasted, adding both crunch and richness. What makes it truly special is the sauce—a flavorful mixture that brings everything together.
The Ingredients
Let’s talk about what you’ll need to create this delightful dish. The ingredients are straightforward, yet they create a fantastic flavor profile.
3-4 medium boneless, skinless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch cubes
1 ½ tablespoons vegetable oil
2 teaspoons cornstarch
2 red bell peppers – chopped
1 white onion – chopped
½ cup roasted cashews
2 green onions – sliced
Cooked white or brown rice – for serving
2 tablespoons light soy sauce
Sauce
1 tablespoon lime juice
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 tablespoon freshly minced ginger
2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar
1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
1 teaspoon chili flakes
2 tablespoons water
4 tablespoons tamari soy sauce
2 teaspoons coconut sugar
A Quick Overview of How to Make Chinese Cashew Chicken
Making Chinese cashew chicken is a rewarding experience, combining simple cooking techniques and bold flavors. Now that you have an idea of the ingredients, let’s break down the steps for creating this lovely dish.
Step-by-Step Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by cutting the chicken into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking. Chop the red bell peppers and white onion, and slice the green onions for garnish. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, chili flakes, water, tamari soy sauce, and coconut sugar. This sauce will meld flavors beautifully. Taste it before cooking; if it needs more zing or sweetness, adjust as necessary.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
In a separate bowl, toss the cubed chicken with cornstarch until it’s evenly coated. This step helps achieve a slightly crispy texture when cooked, making each bite delightful.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for about three minutes, then flip to brown the other side. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes.
Step 5: Add Onions and Peppers
Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped onion and red bell peppers.
Stir-fry for approximately 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp. The colors should brighten, creating a feast for the eyes.
Step 6: Combine with Sauce and Nuts
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.
Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes—this is where the magic happens! The sauce thickens slightly, clinging to the ingredients. Add the roasted cashews at the end, mixing gently.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Chinese cashew chicken over a generous scoop of rice. Garnish with sliced green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Dive in with chopsticks or just a fork—enjoy every savory bite!
Notes: Helpful Tips for Success
- Chicken Options: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes with soy sauce and ginger.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in snap peas or broccoli if you have them on hand. They add vibrant color and texture.
- Nut Choices: If you’re not a fan of cashews, try almonds or peanuts instead.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili flakes based on your heat preference. For milder flavors, reduce or omit.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and chop the veggies in advance to save time when you cook.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply use the microwave or a skillet over medium heat.
You might want to add a splash of water to rehydrate the sauce.
Nutrition Information
Chinese cashew chicken recipe nutrition facts
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with Jasmine Rice: Fluffy jasmine rice perfectly absorbs the sauce, making every bite delightful.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad adds crunch and balances the warmth of the dish.
- Spring Rolls: Crisp vegetable spring rolls on the side provide a contrasting texture to the tender chicken.
- Broccoli Florets: Lightly steamed broccoli complements the flavors while adding nutritional value.
- Fortified with Greens: Try serving with sautéed bok choy or steamed green beans for an extra veggie boost.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Chinese Cashew Chicken?
- Protein Alternatives: Tofu is a fantastic substitute for a vegetarian option. It absorbs flavors well and has a satisfying texture.
- Vegetable Alternatives: Swap out red bell peppers for zucchini or snow peas for a different taste and texture.
- Nut Variations: Pistachios or walnuts can change the flavor profile while retaining that desired crunch.
- Soy Sauce Alternatives: Coconut aminos can be used for a soy-free version while still offering that umami flavor.
- Sugar Options: For a healthier option, consider using honey or maple syrup in place of coconut sugar.
Chinese Cashew Chicken Recipe
Equipment
- bowl
Ingredients
- 3-4 medium boneless skinless chicken breasts – cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 ½ tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 teaspoons cornstarch
- 2 red bell peppers – chopped
- 1 white onion – chopped
- ½ cup roasted cashews
- 2 green onions – sliced
- Cooked white or brown rice – for serving
- 2 tablespoons light soy sauce
Sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 tablespoon freshly minced ginger
- 2 teaspoons rice wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 tablespoons tamari soy sauce
- 2 teaspoons coconut sugar
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Start by cutting the chicken into 1-inch cubes. This ensures even cooking. Chop the red bell peppers and white onion, and slice the green onions for garnish. Set aside.
Step 2: Mix the Sauce
- In a bowl, whisk together the light soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, rice wine vinegar, sesame oil, chili flakes, water, tamari soy sauce, and coconut sugar. This sauce will meld flavors beautifully. Taste it before cooking; if it needs more zing or sweetness, adjust as necessary.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
- In a separate bowl, toss the cubed chicken with cornstarch until it’s evenly coated. This step helps achieve a slightly crispy texture when cooked, making each bite delightful.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Chicken
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chicken in a single layer. Allow it to sear without stirring for about three minutes, then flip to brown the other side. Cook until the chicken is fully cooked, about 6-7 minutes.
Step 5: Add Onions and Peppers
- Once the chicken is cooked, add the chopped onion and red bell peppers.
- Stir-fry for approximately 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet crisp. The colors should brighten, creating a feast for the eyes.
Step 6: Combine with Sauce and Nuts
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat everything evenly.
- Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes—this is where the magic happens! The sauce thickens slightly, clinging to the ingredients. Add the roasted cashews at the end, mixing gently.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve your Chinese cashew chicken over a generous scoop of rice. Garnish with sliced green onions for a burst of color and flavor. Dive in with chopsticks or just a fork—enjoy every savory bite!
Notes
- Chicken Options: For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken for 30 minutes with soy sauce and ginger.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in snap peas or broccoli if you have them on hand. They add vibrant color and texture.
- Nut Choices: If you’re not a fan of cashews, try almonds or peanuts instead.
- Spice Level: Adjust the chili flakes based on your heat preference. For milder flavors, reduce or omit.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken and chop the veggies in advance to save time when you cook
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make Chinese cashew chicken in advance?
Yes! Prepare everything, store it in the refrigerator, and simply heat it up when ready to serve. The flavors can meld beautifully overnight.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Absolutely! Adjust the spice level as needed, and the nutty flavors and crunchy cashews make it a hit with little ones.
What if I don’t have cashews?
Other nuts like almonds or peanuts work well. Similarly, you can leave them out entirely if you prefer a nut-free version.
Can I freeze Chinese cashew chicken?
Freezing can affect the texture of the chicken and vegetables. It’s better to store it in the fridge, but if you freeze it, reheat gently.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To ramp up the heat, add more chili flakes or toss in some sliced fresh jalapeños during cooking.
Conclusion
Chinese cashew chicken is a shining example of how simple ingredients can create an unforgettable dish. From the tender chicken to the crunchy cashews, each component plays a vital role in the harmony of flavors.
Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned pro, this recipe is approachable and satisfying. I hope you give it a try. It’s a meal that not only fills your stomach but warms your heart. Enjoy the journey—your taste buds are in for a treat!
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My name is Lori Walker. I’m a registered dietitian, food blogger and food enthusiast. I share easy healthy, delicious recipes on my blog and review necessary kitchen items. The recipes I share take less… Read more