Cashew Chicken Ditch the Takeout Its This Good
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Cashew Chicken: Ditch the Takeout, It's This Good!
Fancy some Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!} tonight? Honestly, who doesn’t love that sweet and savory goodness? But sometimes, those takeaway containers just don't hit the spot.
This recipe gives you that classic flavour, only fresher, healthier, and way more satisfying. Trust me, it's a game changer.
You end up with a Homemade Cashew Chicken Dish that tastes amazing.
This Cashew Chicken Recipe finds its roots in classic Cantonese stir fries. It's so quick, you'll wonder why you ever bothered with calling for delivery.
This Easy Cashew Chicken Recipe only takes about 35 minutes and feeds about 4-6 people. It is a perfect example of using Weeknight Dinner Ideas for your busy life.
Why This Cashew Chicken is So Good!
One of the best things about this recipe is that you know exactly what's going into it. Packed with lean protein from the chicken and healthy fats from the cashews, it's a much better option than greasy takeout.
Serve this up on a busy weeknight and everyone will be happy. It is better for your health, and it tastes much better.
It's also perfect for family gatherings. I once made this for a potluck. The bowl was licked clean!
What You'll Need To Make Amazing Cashew Chicken
Here's what you need to create this better than takeout experience. We start with our Chicken Cashew Stir Fry With Rice essentials, like chicken, soy sauce, and cashews of course! Then we add a touch of rice wine vinegar.
It adds a certain tang. We will also need things for the stir fry sauce recipe that help add depth and character to the dish
Let's talk about Stir Fry Sauce Recipe
You'll also need things for the stir fry sauce, including chicken broth, hoisin sauce, brown sugar, cornstarch, and sesame oil. These ingredients work together to create that signature sweet and savory flavour.
A touch of red pepper flakes is optional, but highly recommended if you like a little kick! Don't miss the cashew nut.
This whole recipe is about Cashew Nut Chicken .
Equipment You May Need
You will need a large wok or skillet and some prep bowls. It can be tricky to find the right ingredients. It is better to start with the highest quality ingredients possible.
Ingredients & Equipment: Let's Get Cooking!
Alright, let's talk about what you'll need to whip up some amazing Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!} . No need to panic, it's all pretty straightforward! And honestly? This Easy Cashew Chicken Recipe is way better than anything you'd order!
Main Ingredients: The Starters
Here’s what you need to make this Homemade Cashew Chicken Dish sing.
- Chicken: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cubed. Get good quality chicken; trust me, you can taste the difference. Look for chicken that's plump and pink, not pale or slimy.
- Soy Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , low sodium.
- Rice Wine Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
- Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (15g) .
- Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
- White Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) .
Sauce It Up: Flavours Explosion
The sauce is where the magic happens for this Chicken Cashew Stir Fry With Rice . Seriously, it makes or breaks it!
- Chicken Broth: 1/4 cup (60ml) , low sodium
- Soy Sauce: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , low sodium
- Hoisin Sauce: 2 tablespoons (30ml) .
- Oyster Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
- Brown Sugar: 1 tablespoon (15g) , packed.
- Rice Wine Vinegar: 1 tablespoon (15ml) .
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon (5ml) .
- Sesame Oil: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) .
- Red Pepper Flakes: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) (optional).
Veggies and Nuts: The Crunchy Bits
These add texture and flavour to our Cashew Nut Chicken . Yum!
- Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons (30ml) (or peanut oil).
- Raw Cashews: 1 cup (100g) .
- Bell Peppers: 1 red, 1 green, and 1 yellow, all cut into 1 inch pieces.
- Onion: 1 medium, cut into wedges.
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced.
- Ginger: 1 inch piece, peeled and minced.
- Green Onions: 2 , thinly sliced (for garnish).
Seasoning Notes: Flavour Town!
Soy sauce and hoisin are key! These are the backbone of that classic Chinese Takeout Recipe flavour. Don't skip the sesame oil, it adds a lovely nuttiness! If you don't have rice wine vinegar, dry sherry works great.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You don’t need anything fancy for this Quick Cashew Chicken .
- Wok or Large Skillet: A wok is ideal, but a big skillet works too.
- Cutting Board and Chef's Knife: Obvious, but essential!
- Small Bowls: For sauces and marinade.
That’s it! No need for crazy gadgets for this Stir Fry Sauce Recipe . Just the basics.
This Weeknight Dinner Ideas is easy to prepare and cook, so get all your ingredients prepared now, and let's get ready to cook!
Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!} Seriously!
Honestly, who doesn't love Cashew Chicken ? But let's be real, most Chinese takeaway places churn out versions that are either swimming in grease or taste suspiciously of cardboard.
But, my homemade Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!} dish changes the game! This Easy Cashew Chicken Recipe explodes with flavor, using real ingredients.
Ready in under 40 minutes, it beats waiting for delivery any day of the week! Plus, you know exactly what's going into it.
Trust me, your taste buds will thank you. Let's face it, this Homemade Cashew Chicken Dish will become a family favorite!
Prep Steps: Operation Mise en Place
First things first: get organised! This Chicken Cashew Stir Fry With Rice comes together fast, so you need to have everything prepped and ready to go.
Chop your veggies bell peppers, onion, garlic, and ginger. Whisk together your marinade and sauce. Toast your cashews. This is your mise en place , folks, and it’s crucial! The prep time is about 20 minutes .
Remember to keep raw chicken separate from your prepared veggies to avoid cross contamination. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way toward a stress free cooking experience.
Stir Fry Secrets: step-by-step
- Marinate the chicken for 15 minutes minimum. The longer, the better!
- Toast the cashews until golden brown in 3- 5 minutes .
- Stir fry the veggies for about 5- 7 minutes until tender crisp.
- Cook the chicken until it reaches an internal temperature of 165° F ( 74° C) . About 5- 7 minutes .
- Simmer the sauce until thick, about 1- 2 minutes .
Visual cue? The chicken should be lightly browned and the sauce should be glossy and clinging to the ingredients.
Pro Tips for next level stir fry
Want to really elevate your Cashew Chicken Recipe ? First, don’t overcrowd the wok! It will lower the temperature and you’ll end up steaming your chicken instead of getting that nice sear.
Secondly, taste and adjust your sauce! This Stir Fry Sauce Recipe is just a starting point. Is the sauce not sweet enough? More brown sugar is needed.
Do you need more spice? Add a dash of chili oil. Finally, this also doubles as a Quick Cashew Chicken dinner idea! You can prep all the ingredients ahead of time.
Make the sauce the night before, chop the veggies, and then when it's time to cook, the whole thing comes together in a flash.
So it is an excellent solution for your Weeknight Dinner Ideas .Honestly, this recipe for Cashew Nut Chicken is so easy, even my nan could make it.
But shhh, don't tell her I said that!
Recipe Notes for Your Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!}
Honestly, making this Cashew Chicken Recipe is way easier than ordering in. But there's always room for a little extra help, right? Let's dive into some recipe notes that'll make your Homemade Cashew Chicken Dish even better than mine.
Because, you know, competition is healthy.
Making it Look Restaurant Worthy: Plating and Presentation
You know how some takeaways just look... sad? Don't let that happen! I like to serve my Chicken Cashew Stir Fry With Rice in a nice bowl.
A sprinkle of extra green onions always looks good. For a posh vibe, try using a chopstick rest and a fancy napkin.
Hey, we're making Cashew Chicken , let's make it fancy .
Sidekicks for Your Stir Fry: Complementary Dishes
This Easy Cashew Chicken Recipe is killer on its own, but it loves company. I love serving it with steamed jasmine rice classic! If you're feeling fancy, add some stir fried noodles.
Spring rolls are also a great addition. Don't forget drinks! A crisp, cold beer or some Chinese tea works wonders.
Storing Your Leftovers: Keepin' it Fresh
Okay, so you somehow have leftovers. Lucky you! Let's talk storage.
- Refrigeration: Pop your Quick Cashew Chicken in an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for 3-4 days .
- Freezing: Freezing Chicken Cashew Stir Fry With Rice is doable, but the texture might change slightly. Freeze it in an airtight container or freezer bag. Aim to use it within 2-3 months . Thaw it completely in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Microwave or reheat in a pan on the hob. Add a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Make sure it's piping hot at least 165° F ( 74° C) .
Remixing the Recipe: Variations to Try
Fancy a twist? I've got you covered!
- Dietary Adaptations: Go gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. Use coconut aminos for the Stir Fry Sauce Recipe .
- Seasonal Ingredient Swaps: In winter, try adding some roasted butternut squash. In summer, use fresh sugar snap peas. I've had a Cashew Nut Chicken stir fry with pineapple before that was banging!
Nutritional Nuggets: Know What You're Eating
This Chinese Takeout Recipe is healthier than your average takeaway. Roughly, you are looking at 450-550 calories per serving . Plus, it's packed with protein.
It's worth it. The Easy Cashew Chicken Recipe is far more beneficial than the takeaway version.
So, there you have it! Loads of tips to make your Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!} a total triumph. Don't be afraid to experiment.
Get in the kitchen and whip up your Weeknight Dinner Ideas ! You can't mess it up!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!} recipe actually better than what I get from my local Chinese takeaway?
We reckon so! This recipe allows you to control the quality of the ingredients, skip the dodgy additives, and customize the flavour to your exact liking. Plus, there's a certain satisfaction in whipping up a banging meal yourself, isn't there? Think of it as your chance to be the Delia Smith of stir fries.
Can I make this Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!} recipe ahead of time?
While best served fresh, you can definitely prep some components in advance! Chop your veggies, mix your sauce, and marinate your chicken ahead of time. Store them separately in the fridge. When you're ready to cook, it'll all come together in a flash, faster than ordering in.
Just be sure to add the cashews right before serving to keep them crunchy.
How do I store leftover Cashew Chicken and how long will it last?
Store leftover Cashew Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge. It will generally last for 3-4 days. When reheating, it’s best to use a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent it from drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the chicken rubbery.
I'm not a fan of bell peppers. Can I substitute them in this Cashew Chicken recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to swap out the bell peppers for other veggies you enjoy. Broccoli florets, sliced carrots, snap peas, or even water chestnuts would all work wonderfully. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure they're cooked to your liking - aiming for that perfect 'crisp tender' bite, just like a proper stir fry should be!
Can I make a vegetarian version of this Cashew Chicken {Better than Takeout!} recipe?
You bet! Simply replace the chicken with firm or extra firm tofu that's been pressed to remove excess water and then cubed. Alternatively, you could use seitan (wheat gluten), which has a great chewy texture. Follow the recipe as directed, adjusting the cooking time slightly to suit your chosen protein substitute.
You might even want to call it Cashew Tofu for clarity!
Is there anything I can do to make this Cashew Chicken healthier?
Definitely! Opt for low-sodium soy sauce and chicken broth to reduce the sodium content. You can also use less brown sugar or substitute it with a natural sweetener like stevia or erythritol. Load up on the veggies, and use lean chicken breast.
Serve with brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to increase the fibre content. Small changes can make a big difference!
Cashew Chicken Ditch The Takeout Its This Good
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 450-550 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 25-35g |
| Fiber | 3-5g |