Easy Authentic Cashew Chicken is a tasty dish that combines tender chicken pieces with crunchy cashews and a flavorful sauce. It’s a perfect mix of textures and simple flavors that come together quickly, making it a great choice for any night of the week. The sauce usually has a bit of soy sauce and a touch of sweetness that balances it all wonderfully.
I love making this dish when I’m short on time but still want something satisfying and homemade. One tip I have is to toast the cashews a little before adding them—they get even crunchier and bring out a nice nutty flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Serving this over a bed of steamed rice is my favorite way to enjoy it. It soaks up the sauce beautifully, and the whole meal feels cozy and filling without a lot of fuss. Whenever I make it, I find that everyone at the table is happy and asking for seconds, which always makes me smile.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I like using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for lean meat, but thighs are great if you want more juicy and tender pieces. Both work well, just adjust cooking time if needed.
Cashew Nuts: Raw cashews toasted in the pan add crunch and a nutty flavor. If you have allergies or want a change, try almonds or peanuts instead.
Broccoli & Onion: These add texture and freshness. Feel free to swap broccoli for bell peppers or snap peas if you prefer different veggies.
Sauces: Soy sauce is key for saltiness. Hoisin and oyster sauces bring depth and sweetness. For vegetarian options, use soy sauce with mushroom stir-fry sauce instead of oyster.
How Do You Get the Sauce Just Right and Coated Evenly?
Coating the chicken with cornstarch is a simple trick to help the sauce stick and thicken nicely.
- Mix the cornstarch well with the chicken before cooking.
- After cooking chicken and veggies, pour the sauce mixed with a little water to loosen it up.
- Stir constantly over medium heat so the sauce thickens and covers every bite.
Don’t rush this step—letting the sauce thicken slowly creates that glossy finish and great flavor balance.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Wok or large skillet – perfect for quick stir-frying and even cooking.
- Mixing bowls – to toss chicken with cornstarch and mix the sauce easily.
- Measuring spoons & cups – for accurate sauce ingredients and seasoning.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – helps stir the dish without scratching your pan.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – for chopping chicken and vegetables safely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version that still soaks up sauce well.
- Add sliced bell peppers or snap peas for extra crunch and color.
- Use cashew butter in the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
- Include a splash of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of chili flakes for brightness and heat if you like it spicy.
Easy Authentic Cashew Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup raw cashew nuts
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 small onion, chopped into wedges
- 2 green onions, chopped (separate white and green parts)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil or sesame oil
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water
For the Sauce:
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 2 tsp brown sugar or honey
- 1/2 tsp chili garlic sauce or red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
For Garnish:
- Sesame seeds (white or toasted)
- Green onion tops, chopped
Time Needed
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so plan for about 25 minutes total. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that comes together easily on a busy day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with cornstarch until they’re all coated. This helps give the chicken a nice light crust and helps thicken your sauce.
2. Mix the Sauce:
In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar (or honey), chili garlic sauce (if using), and grated ginger. Set the sauce aside for now.
3. Toast Cashews and Cook Chicken:
Heat the oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the cashews and toast them for about 1-2 minutes until golden and fragrant. Remove and set aside. Then add the chicken to the same pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring now and then, until it’s cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken and set it aside with the cashews.
4. Stir Fry Veggies:
Add the chopped onion and broccoli florets to the pan. Stir fry for 3-4 minutes until they’re just tender. Add the minced garlic and the white parts of the green onions, cooking for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Combine and Sauce:
Return the chicken and cashews to the pan. Pour the sauce over everything and add the 1/4 cup of water. Toss everything to coat well and cook for another 2-3 minutes, letting the sauce thicken and cover each ingredient with a glossy finish.
6. Garnish and Serve:
Turn off the heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and the green parts of the chopped green onions. Serve right away over warm steamed rice or your favorite fried rice. Enjoy your delicious homemade cashew chicken!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Thaw in the fridge overnight or use the cold water method for quicker thawing. Pat the chicken dry to avoid excess moisture.
Can I Substitute Cashews with Other Nuts?
Absolutely! Almonds or peanuts work well as alternatives if you’re allergic to cashews or want a different flavor. Toast them lightly before adding to keep that nice crunch.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
Yes! Use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari, and ensure your hoisin and oyster sauces are gluten-free varieties. This will keep the flavor authentic while making the dish safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
