Indulge in the rich and nutty flavors of our cashew chicken recipe, a beloved dish that brings together tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables. This quick and easy meal is perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for special occasions. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a delicious dish on the table in no time. Let’s dive into this tasty culinary adventure!
Ingredients
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 green bell pepper, sliced
– 1/2 cup green onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time: 15 minutes. Cooking time: 15 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of the dish): approximately 350 calories, 25g protein, 12g carbohydrates, 20g fat. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper; cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Stir in sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
5. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch to create a sauce.
6. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
7. Add cashews and chopped green onions; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
8. Adjust seasoning as needed.
9. Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute.
10. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, feel free to use any vegetables like broccoli or snap peas, and swap cashews for peanuts if preferred.
Serving and Pairings
This cashew chicken pairs beautifully with steamed rice or noodles. You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. This dish can be frozen, but the cashews may lose some crunchiness upon reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
– Avoid overcooking the chicken to keep it tender.
– Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
– Don’t skip the cornstarch; it thickens the sauce.
– Be careful with salt; soy sauce is already salty.
– Stir constantly after adding the sauce to prevent sticking.
– Let the dish rest before serving to enhance flavors.
Helpful Tips
– Marinate the chicken for extra flavor.
– Use a non-stick skillet for easier cleanup.
– Add chili flakes for a spicy kick.
– Garnish with fresh cilantro for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking for even cooking and better texture.
What can I substitute for oyster sauce?
If you don’t have oyster sauce, a mix of soy sauce and sugar can work as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Is cashew chicken gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free soy sauce, this dish can be made gluten-free. Always check labels for any hidden gluten ingredients.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, carrots, or snap peas to boost nutrition and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, include chili paste or fresh sliced chili peppers when cooking the chicken.
Conclusion
This cashew chicken recipe is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines familiar flavors with a touch of culinary adventure. Perfect for any night of the week, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables in a savory sauce that will leave everyone wanting more!
Cashew Chicken Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
- 1 red bell pepper sliced
- 1 green bell pepper sliced
- 1/2 cup green onions chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add minced garlic and ginger; sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add chicken pieces and season with salt and pepper; cook until browned (about 5-7 minutes).
- Stir in sliced bell peppers and cook for another 3-4 minutes until tender.
- In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch to create a sauce.
- Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring to coat evenly.
- Add cashews and chopped green onions; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a minute.
- Serve hot over rice or noodles.
