Elevate your weeknight dinner with this delectable Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry—a colorful medley of tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and crunchy cashews, all coated in a savory and slightly sweet sauce. Bursting with flavor and texture, this dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave a satisfying meal without the fuss. With its irresistible combination of protein-rich chicken, nutrient-packed veggies, and crunchy cashews, this stir-fry is sure to become a family favorite in no time!
Ingredients: For the Stir-Fry:
- 3 tablespoons cornstarch
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon pepper
- Approximately 1.25 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 heaping cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup red bell peppers, diced small
- 1 cup shelled frozen edamame
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced or pressed
- 1 cup unsalted dry-roasted whole cashews
- 3/4 to 1 cup green onions, sliced into thin rounds (from about 3 or 4 green onions)
For the Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey, or to taste
- 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Asian chili garlic sauce
- 3/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken:
- In a medium bowl, combine the cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the diced chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until evenly coated with the cornstarch mixture.
- Heat sesame oil and olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the coated chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until golden brown and cooked through, stirring occasionally, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet or wok, add the broccoli florets, diced red bell peppers, shelled edamame, and minced garlic. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Prepare the Sauce:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice wine vinegar, Asian chili garlic sauce, and ground ginger until well combined.
- Combine and Finish:
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the cooked vegetables. Add the unsalted dry-roasted whole cashews and sliced green onions to the skillet.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat everything evenly with the sauce.
- Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the sauce is heated through and the ingredients are well combined.
- Serve:
- Remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish the Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry with additional sliced green onions, if desired.
- Serve the stir-fry hot over cooked rice or noodles, and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures of this delicious dish!
Conclusion: With its savory chicken, vibrant vegetables, crunchy cashews, and flavorful sauce, this Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry is a delightful culinary adventure that’s sure to please your taste buds. Whether served as a standalone meal or paired with your favorite side, this dish offers a perfect balance of protein, veggies, and irresistible flavor. So, gather your ingredients and whip up this quick and easy stir-fry for a delicious and satisfying dinner that the whole family will love!
