Cashew chicken is the kind of meal that brings comfort fast. With tender chicken, crisp veggies, and crunchy cashews tossed in a rich, flavorful sauce, it’s everything you love about takeout—made easy at home. Perfect for busy nights or when you want something satisfying without the fuss.
Why We Love This Cashew Chicken Recipe
When it comes to quick and flavorful meals, this one tops the list. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making it over and over:
Quick to make: From chopping to stir-frying, you’re done in under half an hour.
Healthy takeout alternative: Less oil, cleaner ingredients, and full control over the sodium and sweetness.
Versatile: Adjust the spice, veggies, or sauce to suit your taste.
One-pan magic: Fewer dishes, more flavor.
Family-friendly: Even picky eaters love the combination of tender chicken and roasted cashews.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 red bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (thinly sliced)
- 3 green onions (chopped)
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 3/4 cup roasted unsalted cashews (lightly toasted)
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water (to thicken sauce)
These ingredients come together to create a balanced sauce that clings to every piece of chicken and veggie, delivering flavor in every bite.
How to Make Cashew Chicken at Home
Prep Everything First
Before the pan heats up, get everything ready:
Cut the chicken into small chunks.
Slice the bell peppers and green onions.
Mince the garlic.
Mix all the sauce ingredients in a bowl and set aside.
Toast the cashews in a dry pan until golden.
Cook the Chicken
Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the chicken in a single layer. Let it sear for 2 minutes before stirring.
Cook for 6–7 minutes until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
Remove the chicken and set it aside.
Stir-Fry the Veggies
In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil.
Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
Toss in bell peppers. Cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan.
Pour the sauce over and stir.
Let it bubble and thicken (about 2 minutes).
Stir in toasted cashews and green onions.
Done! You’ve just made restaurant-style cashew chicken in your own kitchen.
Expert Tips for the Best Cashew Chicken
Even a simple dish has its secrets. Use these pro tips to get the best texture and flavor:
Use chicken thighs: They’re juicier and more forgiving than breasts.
Don’t skip the toasting: Toasting the cashews enhances their nutty flavor.
Cook over high heat: Quick, hot cooking keeps the veggies crisp and the chicken tender.
Add sauce at the end: This prevents burning and keeps everything glossy.
Adjust to your liking: Want it sweeter? Add a bit more brown sugar. Like it tangy? A splash of more vinegar does the trick.
Tasty Variations of Cashew Chicken
No two households are the same, and this dish loves flexibility. Try these easy swaps:
Spicy Cashew Chicken: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic paste or crushed red pepper flakes.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with crispy tofu or stir-fried mushrooms.
Low-Sodium Swap: Use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free, lower-salt option.
Pineapple Cashew Chicken: Toss in fresh pineapple chunks for a sweet contrast.
Extra Crunch: Add snow peas, carrots, or water chestnuts.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with just about anything that can soak up the sauce. Here are a few go-to ideas:
Steamed jasmine or brown rice
Cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist
Chilled cucumber salad for a cooling side
Stir-fried noodles for a heartier option
Wrapped in lettuce leaves for a light, crunchy wrap
Top it all with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a handful of chopped fresh herbs for that final touch.
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FAQs About Cashew Chicken
Is cashew chicken healthy?
Yes, especially when you make it at home. You control the oil, sodium, and sugar. Plus, you get lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh veggies in every serving.
Can I make cashew chicken ahead of time?
You can. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
What’s the best cut of chicken to use?
Chicken thighs are ideal because they stay tender and juicy. If you prefer white meat, go with chicken breasts but be careful not to overcook them.
How do I keep the cashews crunchy?
Toast them before adding, and stir them in just before serving to maintain that perfect crunch.
Cashew Chicken
Equipment
- Large Skillet or Wok
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken thighs cut into bite-sized pieces
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 red bell pepper thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper thinly sliced
- 3 green onions chopped
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil for cooking
- 3/4 cup roasted unsalted cashews lightly toasted
Sauce
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 1 tablespoon water to thicken sauce
Instructions
- Prep everything first: cut chicken into chunks, slice bell peppers and green onions, mince garlic, mix all sauce ingredients in a bowl, and toast cashews until golden.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken in a single layer. Let sear for 2 minutes before stirring.
- Cook chicken for 6–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove chicken and set aside.
- In the same pan, add 1 tablespoon of oil. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
- Toss in bell peppers and cook for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.
- Return chicken to the pan. Pour the sauce over and stir. Let bubble and thicken for about 2 minutes.
- Stir in toasted cashews and green onions. Serve immediately.