Chinese American Chicken With Cashew Nuts Recipe

Cook Time: 13 minutes  

   Prep Time: 13 minutes

Chinese American Chicken With Cashew Nuts Ingredients

Chinese American Chicken With Cashew Nuts Instructions

  1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 2 tablespoons light soy sauce, 1 teaspoon cornstarch, 1/2 teaspoon white pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Mix thoroughly to coat the chicken evenly and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together 1 tablespoon dark soy sauce, 1 tablespoon Shaoxing wine, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce, 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil, 1 teaspoon sugar, 1 tablespoon cornstarch, and 2 tablespoons water to create the sauce slurry. Set aside.
  3. Heat a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add the raw cashew nuts and toast them, stirring constantly, until they are golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. Remove the cashews from the pan and set aside.
  4. Increase the heat to high and add 2 tablespoons peanut oil to the pan. When the oil is shimmering, add the marinated chicken in a single layer. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
  5. Add the diced yellow onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the pan. Stir-fry for 2 minutes until the vegetables are slightly softened but still crisp.
  6. Add the minced garlic, minced ginger, and the white parts of the sliced scallions to the pan. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the pan with the vegetables. Pour in the prepared sauce slurry and stir well to coat everything evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and everything is heated through.
  8. Add the toasted cashew nuts and the green parts of the scallions to the pan. Stir-fry for another 30 seconds to combine and warm the cashews.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. Serve immediately.

Estimated Calories: 350, Servings: 4

Recommended Dishes

Chicken With Cashew Nuts Pairings

A good pairing for Chicken With Cashew Nuts is a focus on flavors that balance sweet, savory, and umami notes. The best recipes often highlight a delicious combination of soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of sweetness, which can be complemented by a quick drizzle of sesame oil or a sprinkle of fresh scallions. For those seeking a healthy option, adding a bit of fresh ginger or a squeeze of lime can brighten the dish and provide a fast way to enhance the overall taste profile. The interplay of textures, with crunchy nuts and tender chicken, makes for a great eating experience.
When considering sides, steamed jasmine rice is a classic and easy choice that absorbs the sauce well and allows the main dish to shine. For a more nutritious and healthy meal, a quick stir fry of seasonal vegetables such as broccoli, snap peas, or bok choy can be a great addition. These sides are not only fast to prepare but also provide a good balance to the richness of the main recipe, making the meal both satisfying and delicious.
For drinks, a light and refreshing non-alcoholic option like jasmine tea or a cold glass of sparkling water with lemon is often the best match, as it cleanses the palate and complements the flavors without overpowering them. Those who prefer an alcoholic beverage might enjoy a crisp, dry white wine or a light lager, both of which pair well with the savory and nutty notes of the dish. These choices are easy to find and quick to serve, making them a great addition to any meal featuring Chicken With Cashew Nuts.

Chicken With Cashew Nuts Quick Mistake Fixes

A common issue that can arise with this dish is an overly salty flavor profile. This often happens when soy sauce or other salty condiments are used in excess, which can overpower the natural taste of the chicken and vegetables. The best approach to avoid this is to use low sodium versions of sauces and to taste as you go, making adjustments as needed. A good tip is to add a splash of water or unsalted broth if the dish turns out too salty, which can help dilute the intensity without sacrificing the overall flavor. This quick fix ensures the meal remains delicious and enjoyable for everyone at the table.
Another challenge that sometimes occurs is the chicken becoming dry or the vegetables turning soggy. Achieving the right texture is key to a great dining experience. Cooking the chicken just until it is done and removing it from the heat promptly helps maintain its juiciness. For the vegetables, a fast stir fry over high heat is the best way to keep them crisp and vibrant. This method not only preserves the healthy qualities of the ingredients but also ensures the dish is easy to prepare and visually appealing.
Balancing flavors with last minute changes can make a significant difference, especially if the initial taste is bland or unremarkable. A quick addition of fresh aromatics like green onions or a splash of rice vinegar can brighten the dish instantly. For those seeking a more robust flavor, a drizzle of toasted sesame oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes can elevate the meal to a new level. These fast and easy adjustments help transform a good dish into a truly great one, ensuring the final result is both healthy and delicious.

About Chicken With Cashew Nuts Recipe

If you're searching for the best Chinese American recipe that’s both easy and delicious, look no further than this Chicken With Cashew Nuts dish. This homemade classic is a favorite for anyone who loves a quick and tasty meal. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables creates the perfect balance of flavors and textures. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with an authentic restaurant-style meal at home.
Learning how to make this Chinese American favorite is easier than you might think. The key to the best Chicken With Cashew Nuts is using fresh ingredients and following a few essential tips. For a truly authentic taste, marinate the chicken before stir-frying and toast the cashews for extra crunch. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also allows you to customize the vegetables and sauce to suit your preferences, making it a versatile and tasty option for any occasion.
For those who want a simple yet delicious homemade meal, this Chicken With Cashew Nuts recipe is the perfect choice. Whether you’re new to cooking or a seasoned chef, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to achieve restaurant-quality results at home. Don’t forget to check out our tips for the best flavor and texture, and enjoy this authentic Chinese American dish with steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.

Healthy Chicken With Cashew Nuts Tips

To enhance the health benefits of this Chinese American classic, those preparing Chicken With Cashew Nuts can focus on selecting lean, skinless chicken breast as the primary protein. This simple adjustment reduces saturated fat content, making the recipe healthier without sacrificing the authentic, delicious flavor. Incorporating a generous portion of colorful vegetables such as bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas not only adds fiber and vitamins but also boosts the overall nutritional profile. Using a minimal amount of oil and opting for heart-healthy options like avocado or canola oil further supports health-conscious cooking. For the sauce, reducing sodium by choosing low-sodium soy sauce and limiting added sugars ensures the dish remains both tasty and health-friendly.
Another effective way to make this homemade Chicken With Cashew Nuts recipe healthier is by roasting or lightly toasting the cashew nuts instead of frying them, which preserves their nutrients and keeps the fat content in check. Those seeking the best health outcomes can also serve the dish over brown rice or cauliflower rice, increasing fiber and lowering the glycemic index compared to traditional white rice. For a quick and easy meal that doesn’t compromise on health, it’s important to measure ingredients carefully and avoid excessive use of sauces. These tips help maintain the perfect balance between authentic taste and nutritional value, making this simple, quick, and delicious recipe a top choice for anyone prioritizing health in their homemade meals.

Chicken With Cashew Nuts Story

During a year spent studying abroad, the subject often found themselves longing for the familiar comforts of home. The transition to a new country was not always easy, and the fast pace of city life sometimes left little room for reflection. One evening, after a particularly challenging day, they stumbled upon a small restaurant that offered a dish reminiscent of family dinners back home. The first bite brought a wave of nostalgia, grounding them in memories of laughter and warmth around the dinner table. It was a quick reminder that even far from home, certain experiences could bridge the distance.
The subject recalled how their family always considered this meal the best choice for gatherings, not only because it was delicious but also because it was easy to prepare. The recipe had been passed down through generations, each person adding their own touch while preserving its essence. In that foreign city, the familiar flavors provided a sense of continuity and belonging. The meal became a ritual, a way to connect with loved ones across miles, and a source of comfort during moments of homesickness.
Over time, the subject began to appreciate the healthy balance the dish offered, which contrasted with the heavier options often found in their new environment. It was a great way to maintain a sense of well being while adapting to a different lifestyle. The experience reinforced the idea that food is more than sustenance; it is a vessel for memory and emotion. Through this simple, yet meaningful, connection, the subject found resilience and joy, proving that the right meal can make any place feel a little more like home.