Easy cashew chicken

Easy Cashew Chicken combines tender chicken thighs with crunchy cashews and fresh vegetables, creating a savory stir-fry dish. This quick and satisfying meal is perfect for busy nights and loaded with flavor.

04 Feb 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

4 tbsp cashew
3 chicken thighs
1/4 onion
1/2 green pepper
2 tbsp vegetable oil
1 tbsp garlic
1 tbsp chili sauce
1/2 tsp ginger
1 dash salt
1 dash black pepper
1.50 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp vinegar
1 tbsp onion
1 tbsp sesame seeds
1 tbsp sesame oil

Easy Cashew Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the savory flavors of chicken thighs with the crunch of cashews and the freshness of vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal that doesn’t require a lot of fuss. With simple ingredients and a straightforward cooking process, you’ll have a flavorful meal ready in no time.

Instructions:

1. Prep Your Ingredients:
- Dice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces.
- Chop the onion and green pepper into small, manageable pieces.
- Mince the garlic and ginger.
- Set aside the finely chopped onion for garnish.

2. Toast the Cashews:
- In a dry pan, toast the cashews over medium heat until they are golden brown. This should take about 3-5 minutes. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
- Once toasted, remove from the pan and set aside.

3. Cook the Chicken:
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the diced chicken thighs to the skillet and cook until they are no longer pink and start to turn golden brown, approximately 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir-Fry the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion and green pepper to the skillet with the chicken and cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the minced garlic and ginger, cooking for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

5. Combine Flavors:
- Stir in the chili sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, and a dash of salt and black pepper. Mix well to coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.
- Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well-coated and flavors meld together.

6. Finish the Dish:
- Add the toasted cashews back into the skillet and mix.
- Drizzle the sesame oil over the mixture and stir well.

7. Plate and Garnish:
- Transfer the cashew chicken to a serving dish.
- Garnish with the finely chopped onion and sesame seeds.

8. Serve:
- Serve hot, over steamed rice or alongside your favorite noodles.

This Easy Cashew Chicken recipe is a wonderful go-to for a weeknight dinner or any occasion when you need a quick and delicious meal. With its combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables, it’s certain to please. Remember to follow the tips for best results and feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Enjoy your homemade cashew chicken with some steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Easy cashew chicken FAQ:

How long does it take to cook the chicken thoroughly?

Cook the diced chicken thighs for about 5-7 minutes over medium-high heat until they are no longer pink and turn golden brown.

What size pan should I use for this recipe?

A large skillet or wok is recommended for this recipe to ensure even cooking and ample space for stir-frying the chicken and vegetables.

Can I substitute chicken thighs with another type of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts or tofu for a different protein option, but cooking times may vary slightly.

How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option?

For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos, which provide a similar flavor profile.

Tips:

- Toast the cashews in a dry pan until lightly golden to enhance their flavor and crunch.

- Marinate the chicken in soy sauce and ginger for at least 15 minutes to infuse more flavor.

- Cut the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.

- Stir-fry the chicken on high heat to achieve a nice sear and keep it juicy.

- Add the vegetables towards the end of cooking to retain their crunch and color.

- Adjust the amount of chili sauce to your preferred spice level.

Nutrition per serving

3 Servings
Calories 360kcal
Protein 20g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 1.91g
Sugar 3.55g
Fat 36g

Easy cashew chicken