Easy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

This Easy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is pure comfort on a plate. Picture a warm, inviting dish that brings together savory chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables. It’s a meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also wraps you in a cozy embrace. I’ve often found that recipes like this one are perfect for sharing a table with loved ones, making it an ideal choice for families or comforting weeknight dinners.

The heart of our stir fry includes 1 pound of diced chicken breast, bringing protein to the mix. Add to that 1 cup of cashews for delightful crunch, plus 2 cups of colorful mixed vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas. The flavor dance continues with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce, and a fragrant touch of 1 tablespoon of sesame oil. Minced garlic and ginger amplify the dish with their aromatic qualities, while salt and pepper complete the seasoning. Served over fluffy cooked rice, every bite offers a harmonious blend of taste and texture you’ll absolutely love.

What makes this dish so easy? It’s all about the simple, straightforward steps. Start by heating sesame oil in a large skillet or wok. Next, you’ll add the chicken and cook until golden brown. Then, garlic and ginger get a quick sauté before tossing in the mixed vegetables for a vibrant crunch. The sauces add depth, while cashews bring that final delightful crunch. With just a pinch of salt and pepper, you’ve got a dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also full of flavor.

This Easy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is perfect for busy weeknights or even when hosting friends. It comes together swiftly, transforming fresh ingredients into a wonderful meal that will please everyone. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a lively gathering, this dish fits right in and is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe can be on your table in less than 30 minutes.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein, colorful veggies, and heart-healthy fats from cashews.
• Simple Ingredients: You may already have many of the ingredients at home, making it an easy go-to.
• Versatile Dish: Great for customizing with your favorite vegetables or proteins.
• Delicious Comfort Food: A tasty way to enjoy a family meal that everyone will love.

Chicken Breast Tips

When selecting your chicken breast, look for pieces that are plump and firm to the touch. Fresh chicken should have a pale pink color without any dark spots. For the best results, consider using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, as they’re easy to cut into bite-sized pieces and cook evenly. If available, opt for organic or free-range chicken for added flavor and quality. Be sure to thaw any frozen chicken completely in the fridge before cooking for consistent texture and flavor.

Options for Substitutions

• Chicken: Swap chicken breast for shrimp or tofu for a different protein option.
• Cashews: Almonds or peanuts can be used if you prefer a different nut.
• Vegetables: Feel free to mix in carrots, zucchini, or any seasonal vegetables you have on hand.
• Soy Sauce: For a gluten-free option, use tamari in place of soy sauce.
• Oyster Sauce: Use mushrooms or hoisin sauce for a vegetarian alternative.
• Rice: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a healthier twist.

Watch Out for These Mistakes

One common mistake is overcooking the chicken. When you add the chicken to the skillet, make sure to monitor it closely. Overcooking can lead to dry, rubbery pieces. Follow the cooking time carefully—5 to 7 minutes should do the trick.

Another pitfall is adding garlic and ginger too early. Adding them when the chicken is nearly done allows their flavors to bloom without burning, ensuring that you get that fragrant aroma without the bitter taste of overcooked garlic.

Be cautious about not overcrowding the pan with vegetables. If the skillet is too full, the vegetables will steam instead of fry. You want them tender-crisp, so it’s better to cook in batches if necessary.

Lastly, remember to season your dish adequately. A little salt and pepper can make a big difference in flavor. Taste your stir fry before serving and adjust if needed.

What to Serve With Easy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry?

This stir fry pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with a light cucumber salad for a refreshing crunch, or perhaps some steamed dumplings for a comforting touch. A bowl of miso soup can also be a lovely addition, providing a warm and soothing contrast to the savory stir fry. For extra heartiness, serve it with a side of fried rice or a fluffy side of jasmine rice to soak up all those delicious flavors.

Storage Instructions

Store: You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freeze: If you wish to freeze it, store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheat: To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, or microwave in short intervals of about 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

Recipe Info

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 4

Estimated Nutrition

Estimated nutrition for the whole recipe (without optional ingredients):

• Calories: 600-700
• Protein: 45-50g
• Fat: 30-35g
• Carbohydrates: 40-50g

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, diced
• 1 cup cashews
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cooked rice for serving

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Skillet

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Make sure the oil becomes hot enough before adding the chicken to ensure it cooks evenly.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Add 1 pound of diced chicken breast to the skillet. Cook the chicken for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is browned and completely cooked through. Ensure there is no pink in the center.

Step 3: Add Aromatics

Once the chicken is cooked, stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 tablespoon of minced ginger. Cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic and ginger to release their fragrant aromas.

Step 4: Stir in the Vegetables

Next, add 2 cups of mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry the mixture for 3 to 4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp and vibrant in color.

Step 5: Incorporate Sauces

Pour in 3 tablespoons of soy sauce and 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce. Mix well, ensuring the sauces coat the chicken and vegetables evenly.

Step 6: Add Cashews and Season

Stir in 1 cup of cashews and continue to cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.

Step 7: Serve the Stir Fry

Finally, serve your Easy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry hot over a bed of cooked rice. Adjust any final seasoning if necessary and enjoy.

Conclusion

This Easy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a delightful combination of flavors, textures, and colors that can elevate any meal. With its simple preparation steps and satisfying taste, it’s a must-try dish for every home cook. I encourage you to give it a go, share your feedback, and explore more recipes on my site for another dish that will delight your family and friends!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking for the best texture and flavor.

How can I make this stir fry lower in calories?

You can reduce the amount of oil used, opt for less sauce, and increase the volume of vegetables to keep the dish filling yet lighter.

Is this dish good for meal prep?

Absolutely! This stir fry is fantastic for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge and can be reheated easily throughout the week.

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