Spicy stir-fried chicken with beans and cashews

This Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken with Beans and Cashews features tender chicken, crisp green beans, and crunchy cashews combined with rich curry flavors. Quick to prepare and perfect for a weeknight dinner, it’s finished with fresh basil for a fragrant touch.

08 Jan 2026
Cook time 10 min
Prep time 15 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp peanut oil
1/3 cup curry paste
1.50 lb chicken breasts
2 tsp brown sugar
1 tbsp fish sauce
1 tbsp lime juice
1 cup green beans
1/3 cup cashew
1/2 cup basil leaves
Spicy stir-fried chicken with beans and cashews

Spice up your dinner routine with this delicious and easy-to-make Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken with Beans and Cashews recipe. Combining tender chicken breasts, crunchy cashews, and fresh green beans all elevated with the rich flavors of curry paste, fish sauce, and a touch of brown sugar, this dish promises a burst of flavors in every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dish for guests.

Instructions:

1. Prep the Ingredients:
- Thinly slice the chicken breasts.
- Trim the green beans and cut them into bite-sized pieces.
- Measure out the curry paste, brown sugar, fish sauce, lime juice, cashews, and fresh basil leaves.
2. Heat the Oil:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat until hot but not smoking.
3. Cook the Curry Paste:
- Add 1/3 cup of curry paste to the hot oil.
- Stir constantly for about 1-2 minutes until the paste becomes fragrant.
4. Stir-Fry the Chicken:
- Add the thinly sliced chicken breasts to the skillet with the curry paste.
- Cook the chicken, stirring frequently, for about 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and no longer pink inside.
5. Add the Seasonings:
- Sprinkle 2 teaspoons of brown sugar over the chicken.
- Pour in 1 tablespoon of fish sauce and 1 tablespoon of lime juice.
- Stir everything together well to coat the chicken evenly with the seasonings.
6. Add the Vegetables and Nuts:
- Add 1 cup of green beans and 1/3 cup of cashews to the skillet.
- Continue to stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
7. Finish with Basil:
- Tear the fresh basil leaves and stir them into the skillet.
- Cook for an additional 1 minute until the basil is wilted and fragrant.
8. Serve:
- Remove the skillet from heat.
- Serve the spicy stir-fried chicken with beans and cashews hot with steamed rice or noodles.

This Spicy Stir-Fried Chicken with Beans and Cashews recipe is a flavorful and satisfying meal that you'll want to make again and again. With its harmonious blend of spicy, sweet, and savory notes, it showcases the beauty of simple yet impactful ingredients. Whether you're cooking for yourself, your family, or friends, this dish is sure to delight everyone's taste buds.

Spicy stir-fried chicken with beans and cashews FAQ:

What is the best way to check if the chicken is cooked through?

To ensure the chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that it has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, cut into a piece of chicken to verify that it is no longer pink inside.

Can I use a different type of oil for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute peanut oil with other high-heat oils such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or grapeseed oil. However, be aware that these oils may alter the flavor slightly.

How do I store leftovers from this dish?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking if necessary.

What can I use as a substitute for green beans?

You can substitute green beans with snap peas, bell peppers, or broccoli, adjusting the cooking time to ensure they remain tender-crisp.

How spicy is this dish and how can I adjust the heat level?

The spice level depends on the type of curry paste used. To reduce heat, use a milder curry paste or reduce the amount used. For more heat, add extra curry paste or red pepper flakes.

Tips:

- Make sure to cut the chicken breasts into thin, even strips to ensure they cook quickly and evenly.

- Blanch the green beans briefly before stir-frying to maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

- Toast the cashews lightly in a dry pan before adding them to the stir-fry to enhance their nutty flavor.

- Adjust the amount of curry paste according to your heat preference. You can always add a bit more if you like it spicier.

- Fresh basil leaves add a fragrant finish to the dish, but if you can't find fresh basil, you can use Thai basil or even cilantro as a substitute.

- Serve the stir-fry immediately over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Nutrition per serving

4 Servings
Calories 370kcal
Protein 40g
Carbohydrates 10g
Fiber 1.95g
Sugar 4.15g
Fat 18g

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