Name: Homemade Cashew Chicken in 20 Minutes – So Good, You'll Crave It!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 lb Chicken Thighs (or chicken breasts for a lighter option); 1/2 cup Cornstarch (for crispy coating); 1 cup Chicken Stock (low-sodium for healthier option); 1/4 cup Soy Sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option); 2 tbsp Honey (or maple syrup for vegan); 2 tbsp Hoisin Sauce; 1 tbsp Rice Wine Vinegar (or apple cider vinegar); 1 tbsp Oil (high smoke-point like canola); 3 cloves Garlic (fresh minced); 1 tbsp Ginger (fresh, minced); 1/2 cup Cashews (unsalted roasted); 2 stalks Green Onions (finely sliced)

In the midst of a hectic week, the last thing I want is to resort to greasy takeout. That’s why I’ve fallen in love with this Easy Cashew Chicken recipe, which transforms a busy evening into a delicious celebration. With tender chicken enveloped in a sweet and sticky sauce, every bite offers a satisfying crunch from the cashews and the aromatic warmth of garlic and ginger. This dish not only satisfies those cravings for flavor but also checks the box for quick prep—ready in just 20 minutes! Whether you’re cooking for you and your partner or the whole family, this child-friendly takeout alternative is bound to become a weekly staple. Curious to see how easily you can whip up this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why Choose This Cashew Chicken Recipe?

Easy and Quick: In just 20 minutes, you can serve a mouth-watering dish that rivals your favorite takeout! Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe minimizes fuss and maximizes flavor.
Flavor Explosion: The mix of sweet honey, savory garlic, and zesty ginger creates a rich and balanced sauce that brings the chicken to life.
Child-Friendly: With its mild yet delicious flavor, this Cashew Chicken is appealing to kids and adults alike—ideal for family dinners!
Crispy Delight: Thanks to the cornstarch coating, each piece of chicken comes out beautifully crispy, making every bite a crunchy treat.
Versatile Serving: Serve it over steamed jasmine rice or toss with noodles; either way, it’s designed to please! Plus, try it alongside my Buffalo Chicken Taquitos for an exciting meal combo.

Cashew Chicken Ingredients

• Ready to savor homemade goodness? Let’s gather what you need!

For the Chicken

Chicken Thighs – Provides juiciness and tenderness, swap with chicken breasts for a lighter option.
Cornstarch – Essential for achieving a crispy coating; don’t skip this vital ingredient!

For the Sauce

Chicken Stock – Enhances depth of flavor; low-sodium varieties keep it healthier.
Soy Sauce – Adds a savory kick; substitute with tamari for a gluten-free option.
Honey – Balances the sauce with sweetness; maple syrup can be used for a vegan twist.
Hoisin Sauce – Brings rich complexity; be sure to include this for true authenticity!
Rice Wine Vinegar – Adds a tangy note; feel free to swap with apple cider vinegar if needed.

Aromatics and Crunch

Oil – Choose a high smoke-point oil like canola for frying; keep it hot for the best results.
Garlic – Fresh minced garlic releases the most flavor; don’t compromise on freshness!
Ginger – Gives warmth and spiciness; fresh ginger is highly recommended.
Cashews – The star of this dish; use unsalted roasted cashews for the best crunch.
Green Onions – Provides freshness; slice them finely for an enjoyable bite.

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, you’re just one step away from creating a homemade Cashew Chicken that’s not only easy but also better than takeout!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Cashew Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the chicken stock, soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, cornstarch, and rice wine vinegar until smooth. This mixture will form the flavorful sauce that brings your Easy Cashew Chicken to life. Set aside the bowl, so it’s ready to pour into your hot pan later.

Step 2: Coat the Chicken
Place the chopped chicken thighs in a mixing bowl, then add cornstarch and toss until every piece is evenly coated. The cornstarch is crucial for achieving that delightful crispy texture. This step should only take a couple of minutes, ensuring your chicken is ready to fry to perfection.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat oil in a deep-fryer or large skillet over medium-high heat, ensuring it reaches 350°F. Carefully add the coated chicken, allowing it to fry for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy. As the chicken cooks, keep an eye on it to ensure even cooking and avoid overcrowding the pan.

Step 4: Sauté Aromatics
In another pan or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and ginger along with the cashews, stirring continuously for about 1 minute. You’ll want to bring out the fragrant aroma, signaling that your aromatics are perfectly cooked and ready for the sauce.

Step 5: Add the Sauce
Pour the prepared sauce mixture into the pan with the sautéed garlic, ginger, and cashews. Let it simmer for about 2-3 minutes, or until bubbling and thickened. This is where your Easy Cashew Chicken truly becomes a flavorful dish, as the sauce tightens and coats the ingredients beautifully.

Step 6: Combine Chicken
Once the sauce has thickened, gently toss the crispy chicken pieces into the pan, ensuring they are well-coated with the sauce. Continue cooking for an additional minute to let the flavors meld together. The glossy sauce should cling to the chicken, creating an appetizing and savory finish.

Step 7: Finish Off
Remove the pan from heat and stir in the finely sliced green onions, allowing their freshness to brighten the dish. This final touch adds color and an appealing crunch, making your Easy Cashew Chicken not only scrumptious but also visually inviting.

Cashew Chicken Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this Cashew Chicken to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Vegetable Boost: Add bell peppers or broccoli for a burst of color and nutrition. Stir them in during the sauté stage for a delightful crunch.
Nutty Alternative: Peanuts: Substitute cashews with peanuts for a different nutty flavor and a more classic take on Cashew Chicken. The crunch will still satisfy!
Sweetness Control: Adjust Honey: Vary the quantity of honey or replace it with brown sugar to cater to your preferred sweetness level. Every palate is unique!
Heat Level: Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or fresh sliced chili for a hint of heat. This simple twist can transform the dish into a spicy sensation!
Vegan Option: Tofu Swap: Replace chicken with firm tofu for a plant-based version. Just ensure you press it well to achieve that wonderful crisp when frying.
Gluten-Free: Tamari: Use tamari instead of soy sauce to make this dish gluten-free without sacrificing flavor. It’s a great way for everyone to enjoy!
Sauce Variations: Citrusy Twist: Mix in a splash of orange juice or zest for a refreshing citrus flavor that brightens up the sauce beautifully.
Comforting Noodles: Ramen Base: Serve this Cashew Chicken over a bed of ramen noodles for a cozy twist. The noodles soak up the delicious sauce, making for a comforting meal.

While these variations ensure you’re never bored with your dish, don’t forget to pair your Cashew Chicken with a side of my Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder for a delightful, hearty meal. Happy cooking!

How to Store and Freeze Cashew Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover cashew chicken in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps it fresh and ready for a quick meal!

Freezer: If you want to enjoy it later, freeze cashew chicken in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Be sure to cool it completely before sealing.

Reheating: For the best texture, reheat it in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, which helps restore some of its crispy goodness.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Cashew Chicken preparations are ideal for busy weeknights, allowing you to cut down on cooking time by prepping components in advance. You can coat the chicken in cornstarch up to 24 hours beforehand and store it in the refrigerator to keep those crispy textures intact. Additionally, the prepared sauce can be made up to 3 days in advance; just refrigerate it in a sealed container to maintain its flavor and consistency. When you’re ready to serve, simply fry the chicken, add the sautéed garlic, ginger, and cashews, then pour in the sauce, cooking until bubbly. This streamlined approach ensures your meal comes together quickly, serving up a homemade dish that’s just as delightful as fresh!

Expert Tips for Cashew Chicken

Keep Oil Hot: Ensure your oil reaches 350°F for frying; this is key to achieving that perfect crispy texture on the chicken.
Avoid Overcrowding: Cook the chicken in batches if necessary. Overcrowding the pan will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy chicken.
Watch the Sauce: The sauce thickens quickly, so stir frequently and keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Serve Immediately: For the best texture, serve your Cashew Chicken right after cooking; it’s more enjoyable when the chicken is hot and crispy!
Customize Flavor: Don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness by varying the honey or using less hoisin sauce to suit your taste.

What to Serve with Easy Cashew Chicken?

Make your weeknight dinners memorable by pairing this delightful dish with simple yet complementary sides!

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy grains soak up the sticky sauce, making each bite more satisfying and flavorful.
Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful mix of seasonal vegetables adds freshness and crunch, elevating the meal while keeping it light.
Egg Fried Rice: This savory side features a rich taste that enhances the overall flavor profile while adding extra protein.
Sesame Noodles: Tossed in a savory sesame dressing, these noodles provide a perfect contrast to the crispy chicken, making it a delicious combo.
Crispy Spring Rolls: These crunchy delights are great for a fun appetizer, offering contrast in texture alongside the main course.
Chilled Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad of crisp cucumbers and tangy dressing brightens up the meal, balancing the richness of the chicken. Enjoy the contrast!
Lychee Iced Tea: This sweet and refreshing drink pairs beautifully, cleansing the palate and enhancing the flavors of the dish.
Mango Sorbet: Finish on a sweet note with this fruity dessert; its lightness complements the savory flavors of the Cashew Chicken perfectly!

Cashew Chicken Recipe FAQs

What type of chicken is best for cashew chicken?
I recommend using chicken thighs for the juiciest, most tender texture, but chicken breasts can also work for a leaner meal. Thighs hold up well in quick cooking methods and stay moist, making them a favorite for this recipe.

How do I store leftover cashew chicken?
Leftover cashew chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent moisture build-up, which can make the dish soggy.

Can I freeze cashew chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooled cashew chicken in a freezer-safe container, ensuring it’s sealed tightly. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in a pan over medium heat to regain that crispy texture.

What if my chicken is soggy after frying?
If your chicken turns out soggy, it might be due to overcrowding the pan or if the oil wasn’t hot enough. Always ensure the oil is heated to 350°F before frying, and cook in batches to maintain the oil temperature. This helps achieve that desired crispy finish!

Is this dish safe for kids?
Yes! This Cashew Chicken is child-friendly, featuring mild and delicious flavors that appeal to all ages. Just ensure that any potential allergens (like nuts) are managed if your child has nut allergies. Consider substituting cashews with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Definitely! Simply substitute regular soy sauce with tamari, a gluten-free alternative, and be sure to check that all other ingredients you use are also gluten-free. This way, you can enjoy the same delicious flavors while catering to dietary restrictions.