When I first made this Spicy Cashew Chicken, I was hooked from the very first bite! The tender, golden-brown chicken, paired with the crunch of roasted cashews and coated in a fiery, tangy sauce, was an explosion of flavors I couldn’t resist.

It’s spicy and savory with a subtle sweetness that makes it utterly addictive. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it’s also a versatile dish that fits a variety of occasions—from weeknight dinners to impressing dinner guests.

Every time I make it, I’m reminded of how delicious homemade takeout-style food can truly be. Are you ready to bring this bold and tasty recipe to your kitchen?

Reasons to Love Spicy Cashew Chicken

This dish is more than just another recipe; it’s a quick and flavorful option that you’ll want to make over and over again. Here’s why it’s one of my go-to meals:

1. Quick and Easy to Prepare

If you’re like me and love meals that come together without hours of work, you’ll appreciate how simple this recipe is. From coating the chicken to preparing the sauce, it’s straightforward and beginner-friendly. You can have it on the table in just about 30 minutes!

2. A Burst of Flavors

The combination of salty, spicy, sweet, and nutty is absolute perfection. The spicy punch from the sauce and the richness of the cashews create a complex, balanced flavor that’s hard to resist. Plus, you can adjust the spice level to suit your own preference.

3. Customizable for Different Diets

Whether you’re cutting down on carbs or keeping it plant-based, this recipe can be easily adapted! Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh, or serve it with cauliflower rice for a low-carb option. It’s a dish that welcomes creativity.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

The leftovers taste just as good, if not better, as the flavors deepen. Whip up a double batch and you’ll have a few days of tasty lunches ready to go!

5. Crowd-Pleaser

Have picky eaters in the family? You can make it milder for kids or spice it up for adventurous eaters. Plus, it’s a dish that always gets compliments when served to guests.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

Soy sauce
Oyster sauce
Hoisin sauce
Rice vinegar
Brown sugar
Sriracha
Sesame oil
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Cornstarch
Salt
Black pepper
Vegetable oil
Unsalted roasted cashews
Garlic (minced)
Fresh ginger (minced)
Green onions
Red pepper flakes (optional)

How to Customize Your Dish?

Want to get creative with this recipe? Here are some ideas to switch things up:

Make it Dairy-Free: No adjustments needed here, as the recipe doesn’t use dairy!
Healthier Options: Swap out brown sugar for a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup, or use less oil to cook the chicken.
Vegetarian Version: Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a plant-based alternative that still soaks up the sauce beautifully.
Add Veggies: Include colorful bell peppers, snap peas, broccoli, or zucchini to pack your dish with extra nutrients.
Increase the Spice: Like it hot? Add more sriracha or sprinkle in some chili oil to turn up the heat.

Equipment You’ll Need

Here’s the essential gear and how you’ll use it:

Large skillet or wok – Perfect for stir-frying and keeping everything evenly cooked.
Mixing bowls – For prepping your sauce and coating your chicken.
Whisk – Ensures the sauce ingredients blend smoothly.
Knife and cutting board – To prepare your chicken, veggies, and aromatics.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Spicy Cashew Chicken 🍗🌶️

If you’re craving a bold and flavorful dish, this Spicy Cashew Chicken is a perfect choice! Follow these easy steps to whip up a restaurant-worthy meal right in your own kitchen.

1. Prepare the Sauce 🥣

Start by whisking together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine soy sauce, hoisin, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, brown sugar, and sriracha. Stir until the mix is smooth and set aside. This flavorful blend is the heart of the dish!

2. Coat and Season the Chicken 🧂

Cut your chicken into bite-sized pieces and toss them with cornstarch, salt, and black pepper in a medium bowl. This step gives the chicken that crisp exterior you’re going to love.

3. Sear the Chicken 🔥

Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the chicken pieces in a single layer and cook them until golden and crispy on the outside. This should take around 5-6 minutes. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

4. Add Aromatics 🌬️

Using the same skillet, add minced garlic and ginger. Sauté them until fragrant (about a minute). This adds a delightful zing to the dish.

5. Bring It All Together 🍲

Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour in the sauce. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated. Mix in the roasted cashews and green onions for the finishing touches. Sprinkle some red pepper flakes if you want an added kick.

6. Serve and Enjoy 🍽️

Scoop the Spicy Cashew Chicken over a plate of steamed white rice or jasmine rice, and garnish with extra green onions or sesame seeds.

Top Tips for a Foolproof Spicy Cashew Chicken

Coat with Care: Lightly coating the chicken in cornstarch ensures a crispy texture that holds up in the sauce.
Keep It Hot: Use high heat while cooking for a classic stir-fry texture and flavor.
Adjust the Sauce: Like it a bit sweeter or tangier? Play around with the proportions of soy sauce and brown sugar to suit your taste.

Ways to Serve Your Dish

This dish shines best when served fresh and hot. Here are more fun ideas for serving it:

Over Rice – Jasmine, white, or even cauliflower rice works beautifully.
With Noodles – Toss it with stir-fried noodles for a heartier meal.
Family Style – Serve it in a big bowl with extra cashews on top for everyone to grab from.
Add Crunch – Finish it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving) 🌱

Here’s a quick snapshot of the nutritional breakdown for this dish based on a single serving:

Calories: ~350
Protein: ~30g
Carbohydrates: ~28g
Fat: ~15g

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

If you’re planning to make this dish ahead, you’re in luck because it stores well. Here’s how:

Refrigeration

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to restore the crispy texture or in the microwave if you’re low on time.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked Spicy Cashew Chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Pro Tip

Keep the sauce and cooked chicken separate for the best texture when reheating.

There you have it! This Spicy Cashew Chicken recipe is bursting with flavor and so easy to customize. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or just a snack, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot every single time. Happy cooking!

Follow this video to cook along: