Indulge in the rich, nutty flavors of Savory Cashew Chicken, a beloved Chinese-American dish that brings together tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables in a luscious, savory sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a delightful weekend treat, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and impress your guests with its delectable blend of textures and flavors.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 4
- Serving Size: 1 plate (about 300 g)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fat: 18 g
- Fiber: 3 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 cup (150 g) unsalted cashews
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1-inch piece ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 green onions, sliced
- Cooked rice, for serving
Method of Preparation
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, cornstarch, and water until well combined. Set aside.
- Toast the Cashews: In a large pan or wok, toast the cashews over medium heat until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from the pan and set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: In the same pan, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until they are browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Stir-Fry the Vegetables: Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the pan. Add the chopped onion, diced bell peppers, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Combine Everything: Return the chicken and toasted cashews to the pan. Pour the sauce over the mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve hot over a bed of cooked rice.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Consistent Cuts: Cut the chicken and vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Heat Control: Maintain medium-high heat to achieve a good sear on the chicken without overcooking the vegetables.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of sesame oil at the end of cooking for an extra layer of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
- Yes, chicken thighs can be used for a juicier and more flavorful result.
Is there a substitute for oyster sauce?
- You can use a combination of soy sauce and a bit of sugar as a substitute, though the flavor will be slightly different.
How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan or microwave.
Experience the perfect balance of textures and flavors with this Savory Cashew Chicken. It's a dish that brings joy to the table with its colorful presentation and delightful taste. Easy to prepare and sure to please, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your culinary collection, promising smiles and satisfied appetites every time you serve it.