Easy Cashew Chicken
Try this Easy Cashew Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Easy Cashew Chicken recipe, or contribute your own.
- salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 2 stalks celery sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced water chestnuts
- 1/2 tsp corn starch
- 1 cup rice (jasmine brown, or instant for quicker prep)
- 1 - 1.25 lbs. boneless skinless chicken (breast or thighs) cut i
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce (found in most grocery stores in the
- 2 tsp low-sodium soy
- 1/2 tsp rice vinegar ( optional- i'm not a fan so i make mine without)
- 1/2 tsp fresh ginger minced (or 1/4 tsp ground ginger)
- 1/2 red bell pepper cut into strips
- 1/4 cup roasted cashews
- 2 green onions green portion sliced for garnish
- Carbohydrate 23.1350373735899 g
- Cholesterol 230 mg
- Fat 68.0744259747836 g
- Fiber 1.19974602031427 g
- Protein 60.4580371226692 g
- Saturated Fat 16.284849608274 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -3 serving (434g)
- Sodium 258.955351121097 mg
- Sugar 21.9352913532756 g
- Trans Fat 4.72380533393589 g
- Calories 954 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook rice according to package directions. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl combine 2 Tbsp. cornstarch, salt and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
- In a large skillet heat canola and sesame oil over medium-high heat.
- Add chicken and cook until golden brown and chicken is almost finished cooking. (approx. 6-8 min.)
- While chicken is cooking, whisk together chicken broth, hoisin, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar (if using), ginger and ½ tsp corn starch.
- When chicken is just about finished cooking add hoisin sauce mix and toss to coat. Cook for a minute or so until sauce starts to thicken.
- Add red bell peppers, celery, water chestnuts and cashews and mix to coat. Cook for an additional 1-2 min. until vegetables are cooked to your taste (I like them a little crispy so I cook for only about 1 min.)
- Serve over rice, and garnish with sliced green onions.
Easy Cashew Chicken: A Weeknight Winner
As a busy working mom, finding time to cook a delicious and healthy dinner can feel like an impossible task. Between juggling work deadlines, school pick-ups, and the never-ending cycle of laundry, the thought of spending hours in the kitchen often feels overwhelming. That’s why I’ve become a master of quick, easy recipes that don't sacrifice flavor. This Easy Cashew Chicken recipe is one of my go-to weeknight meals – it’s quick, simple, and incredibly satisfying.
The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences and what you have on hand. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables – broccoli, snow peas, or mushrooms would all be delicious additions. If you’re not a fan of rice, serve it over quinoa or noodles for a different texture. And don’t be afraid to adjust the amount of spice to your liking. A dash of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick!
One of the things I love most about this recipe is how quickly it comes together. From start to finish, it takes less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The chicken cooks quickly, and the sauce is incredibly easy to whip up. And the best part? The entire family loves it! My kids often ask for seconds, which is always a win in my book.
Beyond the Recipe: Weeknight Cooking Strategies
This recipe isn't just about the delicious cashew chicken; it's about a mindset shift towards efficient and enjoyable weeknight cooking. Here are a few tips I've learned along the way:
- Meal prep is your friend: On the weekends, I often chop vegetables or cook extra rice to save time during the week. This simple step significantly reduces the cooking time on busy weeknights.
- Embrace one-pan or one-pot meals: These minimize the number of dishes to wash, a huge time saver when you're already short on time.
- Keep your pantry stocked with staples: Having essential ingredients like soy sauce, cornstarch, and canned vegetables on hand ensures you can always whip up a quick meal without a trip to the grocery store.
- Don't be afraid to use shortcuts: Pre-cut vegetables or rotisserie chicken can save you valuable time without sacrificing flavor.
- Get the family involved: Even young children can help with simple tasks like washing vegetables or setting the table. This not only helps you, but it teaches them valuable life skills.
The Magic of Cashews: More Than Just a Crunch
Cashews are more than just a delicious addition to this dish; they add a creamy texture and nutty flavor that balances the savory elements of the sauce. But the benefits extend beyond the culinary. Cashews are a great source of healthy fats, magnesium, and zinc. They're a nutritious addition to any meal, contributing to a well-rounded and satisfying dinner.
Adapting to Your Lifestyle: From Weeknight Warrior to Weekend Chef
This recipe can easily be adapted to fit different lifestyles and dietary needs. For vegetarians, you can substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Those looking for a lighter option can reduce the amount of oil used. And if you have more time on the weekend, you can even marinate the chicken overnight for extra flavor. The possibilities are endless!
So, the next time you're staring at the clock on a busy weeknight, remember this easy cashew chicken recipe. It's a quick, healthy, and delicious solution to your dinner dilemma. It's more than just a meal; it's a symbol of efficiency, family time, and a delicious way to nourish yourself and your loved ones.
Beyond the Plate: Sharing the Joy of Cooking
Cooking isn't just about nourishment; it's about connection. This recipe is a starting point; a foundation upon which you can build your own culinary adventures. Don't be afraid to experiment, to adapt, and to share your creations with others. The joy of cooking lies not only in the final dish but in the process itself, the shared moments, and the satisfaction of creating something delicious and nourishing for those you love.
