If you are searching for a dish that combines the perfect harmony of crunchy cashews, tender chicken, and a savory-sweet sauce, look no further than Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe. This meal is a beautiful balance of textures and flavors that always manages to delight everyone around the table. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to impress guests, making it a true staple in many homes. The combination of fresh vegetables, aromatic garlic, and that irresistible sauce delivers an experience that feels comforting and fresh at the same time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating the magic behind Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the juicy chicken pieces that soak up the flavors, to the crunchy cashews that add texture, and the colorful vegetables that brighten up the dish.
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Cut into bite-sized pieces for easy cooking and perfect sauce absorption.
- 1 cup cashew nuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and rich, nutty flavor to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce, ensuring it clings beautifully to every bite.
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce: A cornerstone of Asian cuisine, delivers deep savory umami.
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce: Enhances the sauce with a subtle sweetness and complexity.
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil: Brings a nutty aroma that’s simply irresistible.
- 1/2 cup chicken broth: Adds moisture and depth to the sauce without overpowering flavors.
- 1/4 cup honey: Balances savory elements with a gentle, natural sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil: For a neutral base to cook your chicken and veggies evenly.
- 1 bell pepper: Sliced to add vibrant color and a slight crispness.
- 1 onion: Sliced to infuse the dish with sweetness as it softens.
- 1 clove garlic: Minced to bring fragrant warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
How to Make Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken breasts into nice, bite-sized pieces; this ensures even cooking and makes every mouthful packed with flavor. Then, in a small bowl, combine the cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and chicken broth to create a marinade that infuses the chicken with savory goodness. Toss the chicken in this mixture until fully coated—this step is vital for that rich taste and luscious sauce texture.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
Get your large skillet hot by heating vegetable oil over high heat. A smoky hot pan is key to searing the chicken properly, locking in juices, and giving it a beautiful golden-brown exterior.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Add the marinated chicken pieces carefully to the skillet. Cook them until they are browned on the outside and cooked all the way through. This process takes just a few minutes per side. Once done, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside so you can build layers of flavor in the next steps.
Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, toss in the sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Sauté these until they soften and release their natural sweetness. This combination not only adds wonderful flavor but also delightful color to the dish, making it just as visually appealing as it tastes.
Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
Return the chicken to the skillet with the vegetables, pour in the remaining sauce mixture, and bring everything to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer gently for about five minutes. During this time, the cornstarch will thicken the sauce, ensuring it coats every piece of chicken and veggie beautifully, creating that signature glossy look and rich taste characteristic of Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe.
Step 6: Add the Cashews
Finally, stir in the crunchy cashew nuts and cook for an additional minute. This step infuses the dish with a satisfying nutty crunch that’s undeniably delightful in every bite. Now, your Cashew Chicken is ready to be served piping hot!
How to Serve Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe, consider garnishing with freshly chopped green onions or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds. These simple touches add vibrant color and a subtle extra layer of flavor that will have your guests raving.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or fluffy white rice, which soaks up the delicious sauce beautifully. Alternatively, serve it with your favorite noodles for a hearty meal. Light steamed vegetables or a crisp cucumber salad can also round out the meal, adding fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get creative, try serving your Cashew Chicken inside lettuce cups for a fresh handheld experience or over quinoa to add a slightly nutty twist. For meal prep, pack it into bento boxes alongside colorful vegetable sides for a lunch that’s both delicious and visually appealing.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping the nuts separate until serving helps maintain their crunch if possible.
Freezing
This dish freezes well too. Simply place it in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture and flavor retention.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the chicken tender and the sauce smooth. If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can dry out the chicken and diminish that fresh-cooked taste.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken with another protein?
Absolutely! Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe works well with tofu for a vegetarian twist or shrimp for a seafood variation. Just adjust cooking times accordingly to avoid overcooking.
Is this dish spicy?
This recipe is generally mild, focusing on savory and sweet notes. However, you can easily add chili flakes or fresh sliced chilies if you crave a little heat.
Can I use raw cashews in this recipe?
Yes, you can use raw cashews, but it’s best to toast them lightly in the skillet before adding to the dish to enhance their natural flavor and crunch.
What kind of soy sauce is best for this recipe?
Regular or light soy sauce works perfectly here. If you prefer a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent substitute without compromising flavor.
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you want a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch by half a teaspoon but be careful not to add too much as it can turn gloopy. Simmering the sauce a bit longer also helps achieve a luscious consistency.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something incredibly satisfying about making Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe at home. It hits all the right notes with its harmonious flavors, delightful textures, and approachable ingredients. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s perfect for creating warm memories around the dinner table with loved ones. Once you do, I bet it will become one of your own family favorites too!
Print
Cashew Chicken: A Family Favorite Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Description
This Cashew Chicken recipe is a quick and delicious stir-fry dish featuring tender chicken pieces coated in a savory sauce with crunchy cashews and fresh vegetables. Perfect for a family dinner, it combines vibrant bell peppers and onions with a balanced blend of soy, oyster sauce, and a hint of honey for sweetness. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an easy, flavorful meal to enjoy over rice or noodles.
Ingredients
Chicken and Marinade
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
Vegetables and Nuts
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup cashew nuts
Sauce and Cooking
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions
- Prepare chicken: Cut the boneless, skinless chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Make marinade: In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and chicken broth. Add the chicken pieces and toss well to evenly coat them with the marinade.
- Heat oil: Place a large skillet on high heat and add the vegetable oil, allowing it to get hot.
- Cook chicken: Add the marinated chicken to the hot skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned on all sides and fully cooked through. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add sliced bell pepper, onion, and minced garlic. Stir-fry the vegetables until they are softened but still slightly crisp.
- Make sauce and combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour in the sauce mixture including honey. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sauce thickens to a glossy finish.
- Add cashews: Stir in the cashew nuts and cook together for an additional 1 minute to allow flavors to meld and nuts to warm through.
- Serve: Serve immediately over steamed rice or cooked noodles for a complete meal.
Notes
- For added heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red chili flakes during the vegetable sauté step.
- Substitute chicken breasts with thighs for juicier meat.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content.
- Cashews can be lightly toasted beforehand for extra crunch and flavor.
- Ensure the skillet is hot before adding chicken to achieve a good sear.
