Cashew Chicken Stir Fry: A Quick and Delicious Recipe for Weeknight Dinners

Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables, all tossed in a savory sauce. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a quick and convenient meal option for busy weeknights. Originating from Chinese cuisine, cashew chicken stir fry has gained immense popularity worldwide, thanks to its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The nutty crunch of cashews complements the succulent chicken, while the fresh vegetables add a burst of color and nutrition.

People love cashew chicken stir fry for its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish can be whipped up in no time, making it an ideal choice for families and individuals alike. With its delightful combination of sweet, savory, and nutty elements, it’s no wonder that cashew chicken stir fry has become a beloved staple in many households. Join us as we explore this delicious recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup raw cashews
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 cup snap peas
• 1 cup carrots, julienned
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice or noodles for serving

Preparing the Chicken

1. Start by marinating the chicken. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, a pinch of salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. While the chicken is marinating, prepare the vegetables. Slice the onion, bell pepper, and carrots. Cut the broccoli into small florets and trim the snap peas. Set all the vegetables aside.

Preparing the Cashews

1. In a dry skillet over medium heat, add the raw cashews. Toast them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are golden brown and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove from the skillet and set aside.

Cooking the Chicken

1. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken pieces in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
2. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate. Cover it with aluminum foil to keep it warm.

Cooking the Vegetables

1. In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the sliced onion, garlic, and grated ginger. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, and carrots to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. You want them to retain some crunch for texture.

Combining Ingredients

1. Once the vegetables are cooked, return the chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine the chicken with the vegetables.
2. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, oyster sauce, cornstarch, and water. Stir until the cornstarch is fully dissolved.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the stir-fry.

Finishing Touches

1. Once the sauce has thickened, drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and give it a final stir. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
2. Remove the skillet from heat and fold in the toasted cashews, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the dish.

Serving

1. Serve the cashew chicken stir fry hot over a bed of cooked rice or noodles. Garnish with additional cashews or sesame seeds if desired.
2. Enjoy your homemade cashew chicken stir fry, packed with flavor and nutrition!

Tips for Success

• For added flavor, consider marinating the chicken for a longer period, up

Conclusion:

In summary, this Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a must-try recipe that combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a delightful addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. The tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables come together in a savory sauce that is both satisfying and nutritious. Not only is it quick to prepare, but it also allows for endless variations—feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables, add some heat with chili flakes, or even substitute the chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different twist. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this dish with steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also serve it over a bed of fresh greens for a lighter option or alongside a refreshing cucumber salad to balance the flavors. We encourage you to try this Cashew Chicken Stir Fry and make it your own! Don’t forget to share your experience and any creative variations you come up with. Your feedback and photos can inspire others to enjoy this delightful dish as well. Happy cooking!

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