Easy Cashew Chicken
If you’re searching for a quick, tasty, and satisfying meal, look no further than this Easy Cashew Chicken recipe. Bursting with flavor and loaded with wholesome ingredients, this dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend feast. The combination of juicy chicken thighs, crunchy cashews, and a savory sauce creates a delightful harmony that will leave you and your loved ones asking for seconds. Plus, it comes together in no time, making it an ideal choice for busy cooks!
Reasons to Love Easy Cashew Chicken
There are countless reasons why this Easy Cashew Chicken should become a staple in your kitchen. First and foremost, it’s incredibly quick to prepare, making it perfect for those hectic evenings when time is of the essence. Secondly, the flavor profile is simply irresistible. The hoisin sauce brings a touch of sweetness, while the chili garlic sauce adds a gentle kick. Finally, it’s a one-pan dish, which means fewer dishes to wash afterward—a win-win for everyone!
Ingredient List
To whip up this delicious Easy Cashew Chicken, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce
- 1 teaspoon chili garlic sauce
- 3 tablespoons chicken broth or water
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 6 green onions, diced
- 1 cup unsalted roasted cashews
- Cooked white rice, for serving
What You’ll Need (Gear)
Before you get started, gather the following kitchen tools:
- Large skillet or wok – for cooking the chicken and vegetables.
- Cutting board and knife – to chop the ingredients.
- Measuring spoons – to accurately measure your sauces and spices.
- Spatula or wooden spoon – for stirring and mixing the ingredients.
- Bowl – for marinating the chicken.
Easy Cashew Chicken: How It’s Done
Creating your own Easy Cashew Chicken is a breeze. Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed success:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated. This will help tenderize the meat and give it a lovely texture.
Step 2: Make the Sauce
In a separate bowl, mix together the hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, chicken broth (or water), and rice vinegar. This will be the flavorful base of your Easy Cashew Chicken.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Add the Aromatics
Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
Step 5: Combine with Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and onion mixture. Stir well to ensure the chicken is coated in the sauce. Let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 6: Add Cashews and Green Onions
Finally, stir in the roasted cashews and diced green onions. Cook for an additional minute, just until everything is heated through.
Step 7: Serve
Serve your Easy Cashew Chicken over a bed of fluffy cooked white rice. Enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors!
If You’re Out Of…
No worries! Here are some alternatives if you find yourself missing an ingredient:
- Hoisin Sauce: You can substitute with a mix of soy sauce and a bit of sugar for sweetness.
- Chili Garlic Sauce: Sriracha or red pepper flakes can work in a pinch.
- Chicken Broth: Use vegetable broth or plain water if you’re in a bind.
- Cashews: Any other roasted nuts, like peanuts or almonds, can be used as a substitute.
Method to the Madness
The method behind this Easy Cashew Chicken is all about layering flavors and ensuring the chicken is cooked perfectly. The cornstarch not only helps to tenderize the chicken but also gives it a nice sear when cooked in the hot oil. The combination of hoisin and chili garlic sauce creates a sweet and spicy profile that complements the nutty cashews beautifully. Allowing the ingredients to simmer together ensures that every bite is packed with flavor.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is unlikely, but still), here’s how to store your Easy Cashew Chicken:
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: For longer storage, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm up in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a splash of water or broth to bring back moisture.
Your Top Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! While chicken thighs add more richness and moisture, chicken breasts can also work perfectly in this recipe. Just be careful not to overcook them, as they can dry out more easily.
Is this recipe spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on how much chili garlic sauce you use. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of sauce or omit it altogether. The hoisin sauce will still provide a sweet taste!
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes! Feel free to throw in some bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for added nutrition and color. Just make sure to cook them until tender before adding the sauce.
What can I serve with Easy Cashew Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with cooked white rice, but you can also serve it with fried rice, quinoa, or even noodles for a different twist. A simple side salad would complement it nicely as well!
Let’s Eat
Now that you have all the steps and tips to create your own Easy Cashew Chicken, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. This dish is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a wholesome meal that brings comfort and satisfaction. Whether it’s for a busy weeknight or a special occasion, this Easy Cashew Chicken is sure to impress. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Easy Cashew Chicken
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, and cornstarch. Toss until the chicken is evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the hoisin sauce, chili garlic sauce, chicken broth (or water), and rice vinegar.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the chicken is fully cooked, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and onion mixture. Stir well and let it simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
- Finally, stir in the roasted cashews and diced green onions. Cook for an additional minute, just until everything is heated through.
- Serve your Easy Cashew Chicken over a bed of fluffy cooked white rice.
Notes
- For a thicker sauce, add more cornstarch to the marinade.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables for added nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge.
