Last night, I made something that quickly became a new favorite in my kitchen! This Scrumptious Cashew Chicken Recipe is a perfect mix of tender, juicy chicken, crunchy cashews, and a savory-sweet sauce that ties it all together.

It’s one of those dishes that looks fancy enough to impress, but believe me, it’s ridiculously simple to make at home. I paired it with fluffy white rice for a comforting meal that felt restaurant-quality! What I love most is how flexible the recipe is—I can tweak it however I like, and it still tastes incredible.

Ingredients for the Perfect Cashew Chicken

These easy-to-find ingredients come together to make a dish packed with flavor and texture!

2 chicken breasts or thighs, diced (for juicy, tender bites).
1/3 cup roasted cashews (for that signature crunch).
2 garlic cloves, grated or minced (fresh is best for bold flavor).
1 teaspoon minced ginger (adds a warm, slightly spicy kick).
2 tablespoons soy sauce (brings savory umami goodness).
1 tablespoon oyster sauce (deepens the flavor with a touch of sweetness).
1 teaspoon sugar (balances the sauce perfectly).
1 teaspoon mirin (mild sweetness and shine for the sauce).
1 teaspoon rice vinegar (adds a tangy zip).
1 teaspoon potato or corn starch (creates a light crisp on the chicken).
2 spring onions, chopped (for a fresh garnish).
1 teaspoon sesame seeds (optional, for extra nuttiness).
Salt and pepper to taste.
Chili flakes (optional, to spice things up).

Note: This recipe serves 2 hearty portions, perfect for a cozy dinner!

Delicious Variations to Try

This recipe is super versatile! Here are some creative ways to make it your own.

Spicy Cashew Chicken: Add chili flakes or a drizzle of sriracha for heat.
Gluten-Free Version: Use tamari as a soy sauce substitute and double-check that your other ingredients are gluten-free, too.
Vegetarian Option: Swap chicken with tofu or mushrooms for equally amazing results.
Extra Nutty: Add a splash of sesame oil for even more nuttiness in the dish.
Low-Sodium: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to reduce the salt content without losing flavor.

Quick Cooking Time? Yes, Please!

You’ll love how quickly this recipe comes together.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Essential Equipment

Here’s everything you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

Skillet or frying pan: For crisping the chicken and cooking the sauce.
Mixing bowl: Great for marinating the chicken and mixing the sauce.
Knife and cutting board: Helps you dice chicken and prep fresh ingredients.
Measuring spoons and cups: Ensures perfect sauce proportions.

How to Make Scrumptious Cashew Chicken?

Whip up this restaurant-worthy dish in just a few simple steps. Everything about the process is intentional and delicious!

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season it lightly with salt and pepper. Next, mix potato or corn starch with the chicken to coat evenly. Chop the spring onions, grate the garlic and ginger, and measure your cashews. Prepping everything beforehand makes cooking a breeze!

Step 2: Cook the Chicken and Cashews

Heat a splash of oil in a skillet over medium heat. Toss in the chicken and cook for 6–8 minutes until it becomes crispy and golden-brown. Remove it from the skillet and set it aside. Add the cashews to the same skillet and stir them for about a minute to enhance their flavor and aroma.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the chicken rests, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sugar, mirin, rice vinegar, and optional chili flakes in a bowl. This sauce is the heart of the dish, so taste and adjust to your liking. Pour the sauce into the skillet and bring it to a slight simmer.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add the chicken back into the skillet and stir well, coating it with the sauce. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is warmed through and the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once done, transfer the Cashew Chicken to a serving dish. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped spring onions for added color and texture. Pair it with rice or noodles, and you’re ready to enjoy an unforgettable meal!

Scrumptious Cashew Chicken Recipe — **Credit:** hirokoliston.com

Pro Tips for the Best Cashew Chicken

From experience, these tips will make your dish even better every time!

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Cook the chicken in batches to ensure even browning and avoid steaming.
Go Fresh: Fresh garlic and ginger make a world of difference in flavor.
Taste the Sauce: Adjust the sweetness, saltiness, or tanginess to your preference.
Toast Your Cashews: Toast them for extra crunch and a deeper nutty flavor.

How to Serve Scrumptious Cashew Chicken?

For a stunning presentation, serve your Cashew Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine or basmati rice. Garnish generously with sesame seeds and spring onions for a professional touch. If you’re looking to elevate the meal, pair it with stir-fried veggies, a light cucumber salad, or even a bowl of miso soup. You can also offer lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze!

Nutritional Information

This tasty meal provides balanced nutrition in every bite. Here’s what one serving looks like.

Calories: 410
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 20g

Make Ahead and Storage

Whether you’re meal prepping or planning ahead, this recipe works beautifully.

Make Ahead: Marinate the chicken and mix the sauce ahead of time to save prep work. Store both in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Short-Term Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to preserve the texture.
Long-Term Storage: Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stovetop. Keep the cashews separate to preserve their crunch.

Why You’ll Adore This Recipe?

This recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a game-changer! Here’s why you’ll love it.

Easy and Quick: Dinner in 30 minutes? Yes, please!
Bursting with Flavor: The sauce and cashews create an unbeatable taste.
Completely Customizable: Adjust the ingredients to make it perfect for your preferences.
Restaurant-Worthy: Impress family or guests with this irresistible presentation.
Meal Prep Friendly: Stores and reheats beautifully, making it a lifesaver on busy days.

Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again. It’s simple, delicious, and absolutely unforgettable. Give it a go tonight!