Crunchy cashew chicken

Crunchy cashew chicken features tender chicken thighs coated in a crispy blend of cashews, breadcrumbs, cumin, and coriander. Baked for a golden finish, this dish is both crunchy and flavorful, making it a great option for dinner.

19 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 cup cashew
1/2 cup bread crumbs
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried coriander
1/4 cup fresh parsley
1/4 cup all-purpose white wheat flour
2 eggs
8 chicken thighs
1/4 cup olive oil

Crunchy cashew chicken is a delightful and nutritious dish that combines the richness of cashews with the savory flavors of cumin and coriander. This recipe ensures a crispy coating on the chicken thighs, offering a satisfying texture with every bite. Perfect for dinner, this dish is sure to be a hit at the table.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or lightly grease it with some olive oil.

2. Prepare the Cashew Coating:
In a food processor, combine the cashews, bread crumbs, ground cumin, dried coriander, and fresh parsley. Pulse until the mixture is finely ground but still has some texture. Transfer the mixture to a shallow bowl or plate.

3. Set Up the Breading Station:
Place the all-purpose flour in another shallow bowl or plate. In a third bowl, beat the eggs until well mixed.

4. Bread the Chicken:
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. One at a time, dredge each chicken thigh in the flour, making sure it is lightly coated. Shake off any excess flour.

5. Dip in Egg:
Dip each floured chicken thigh into the beaten eggs, ensuring it is fully coated with the egg wash. Allow any excess egg to drip off.

6. Coat with Cashew Mixture:
Press each egg-coated chicken thigh into the cashew mixture, turning to coat all sides. Press gently to ensure the mixture adheres to the chicken.

7. Prepare for Baking:
Place the coated chicken thighs on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly.

8. Drizzle with Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the top of the chicken thighs to help them get crispy and golden brown during baking.

9. Bake in the Oven:
Bake the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the coating is golden brown and crispy. To ensure doneness, the internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

10. Serve:
Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Serve the Crunchy Cashew Chicken with your favorite sides, such as a fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or rice.

In just a few simple steps, you can prepare a delicious and crunchy cashew chicken that will impress your family and guests. Serve it alongside your favorite sides, whether it's a fresh salad, steamed veggies, or a cozy serving of rice. Enjoy the delicious crunch and rich flavors of this well-loved dish.

Crunchy cashew chicken FAQ:

What is the baking time for Crunchy Cashew Chicken?

Bake the chicken thighs in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until the coating is golden brown and crispy.

How can I tell if the chicken is done cooking?

Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer. The chicken should also be golden brown on the outside.

What can I use as a substitute for cashews in this recipe?

You can substitute cashews with other nuts like almonds or peanuts. If allergies are a concern, use seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.

How should I store leftovers of Crunchy Cashew Chicken?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results to maintain the crunchiness.

Can I use boneless chicken thighs instead of bone-in?

Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs. Adjust the baking time slightly, cooking them for about 20-25 minutes or until they reach the appropriate internal temperature.

Tips:

- Toast the cashews lightly before grinding to enhance their flavor.

- Use a food processor to grind the cashews and parsley together for a finer coating.

- Pound the chicken thighs slightly to ensure even cooking.

- Let the coated chicken rest for a few minutes before frying to help the coating adhere better.

- Pan-fry the chicken on medium heat to avoid burning the coating while ensuring the chicken cooks through.

- For a healthier option, bake the coated chicken on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.

Nutrition per serving

8 Servings
Calories 390kcal
Protein 22g
Carbohydrates 14g
Fiber 1.10g
Sugar 1.39g
Fat 36g

Crunchy cashew chicken