Name: Better Than Takeout: Juicy Cashew Chicken in 20 Minutes!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Cornstarch (Essential for a crispy coating.); 1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts (Diced pieces for even cooking.); 1/4 cup Low-Sodium Soy Sauce (Forms the flavorful base.); 2 tablespoons Honey (Adds natural sweetness.); 2 tablespoons Rice Wine Vinegar (Brings a tangy kick.); 1 tablespoon Asian Chili Garlic Sauce (Infuses heat and complexity.); 1 teaspoon Ground Ginger (Enhances the overall flavor.); 2 cups Broccoli Florets (Packed with nutrients.); 1 cup Red Bell Peppers (Adds color and sweetness.); 1 cup Shelled Frozen Edamame (No need to thaw.); 3 cloves Garlic (Freshly minced.); 4 scallions Green Onions (Sliced for garnish.); 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (Adds depth to the stir-fry.); 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Used to cook the chicken.); 1/2 cup Unsalted Dry-Roasted Whole Cashews (Provides signature crunch.)

There's something incredibly satisfying about whipping up a vibrant stir-fry that transforms your kitchen into a cozy takeout spot. Picture this: juicy chicken pieces danced through a rich, garlicky soy sauce, mingling with crisp-tender broccoli and sweet, colorful bell peppers. As a home chef, I found a way to indulge in the comforting flavors I adore-all without the carbs and calories that often come with traditional Chinese takeout.

This Better-Than-Takeout Cashew Chicken is more than just a quick meal; it's a masterpiece that comes together in just 20 minutes. As the cashews add a delightful crunch, you'll realize that this homemade version rivals anything you could get from your favorite restaurant. Not only is it healthier, but it's also customizable, allowing you to throw in whatever fresh vegetables you have on hand, or even swap chicken for tofu!

So, next time you're craving something delicious yet simple, join me as we dive into this enticing recipe that's sure to become your go-to weeknight dinner!

Why is this Cashew Chicken Better Than Takeout?

Quick and Easy: Whipping this dish up takes just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weekdays.

Flavor Explosion: The garlicky soy sauce and fresh veggies create an irresistible flavor profile that rivals your favorite takeout.

Healthy Twist: This recipe gives you the satisfaction of your favorite Chinese food without the guilt, keeping calories in check while packing in lean protein.

Versatile and Customizable: Whether using chicken breasts or thighs, or adding in those leftover veggies from the fridge, the options are endless!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: This dish is sure to impress family and friends, proving that homemade meals can be just as exciting as dining out. Give it a try, and you won't look back!

Cashew Chicken Ingredients

Unlock the secrets to making delicious Cashew Chicken right in your own kitchen!

For the Chicken

Cornstarch - Essential for a crispy coating and a thicker sauce; don't skip this step!
Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts - Use diced pieces for even cooking; chicken thighs can be a flavorful alternative.

For the Sauce

Low-Sodium Soy Sauce - Forms the flavorful base; it's a healthier option that keeps the dish light.
Honey - Adds natural sweetness to balance savory flavors; feel free to adjust to your taste.
Rice Wine Vinegar - Brings a tangy kick; remember, it's different from mirin!
Asian Chili Garlic Sauce - Infuses heat and complexity into the dish; perfect for spice lovers.
Ground Ginger - Offers warmth and spice that enhances the overall flavor.

For the Vegetables

Broccoli Florets - Packed with nutrients, they add crunch; feel free to swap for your favorite greens!
Red Bell Peppers - A pop of color and sweetness that brightens every bite.
Shelled Frozen Edamame - Increases protein and adds texture; no need to thaw-just toss them in!
Garlic - Freshly minced for a fragrant boost; a must for depth of flavor.
Green Onions - Sliced for garnish and a fresh, zesty finish.

For Cooking

Sesame Oil - Adds a delightful depth to the stir-fry; a little goes a long way.
Olive Oil - Used to cook the chicken; combine it with sesame oil for the best results.

For the Crunch

Unsalted Dry-Roasted Whole Cashews - Provide that signature crunch; avoid salted for better control over flavor.

Now you're all set to create a dish that's not just better than takeout but also a beloved addition to your dinner rotation!

How to Make Better-Than-Takeout Cashew Chicken

Prep the Chicken: In a ziptop bag, combine cornstarch, salt, and pepper. Add the diced boneless skinless chicken breasts, seal the bag, and shake well until all pieces are coated.
Heat the Oils: In a large skillet, heat sesame oil and olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Carefully add the coated chicken and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it's 80-90% cooked and appears golden brown.
Add Veggies: Stir in the broccoli florets, sliced red bell peppers, frozen edamame, and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are crisp-tender and the chicken is fully cooked.
Prepare the Sauce: While the chicken and veggies are cooking, mix together the low-sodium soy sauce, honey, rice wine vinegar, Asian chili garlic sauce, and ground ginger in a bowl. Set this flavorful sauce aside.
Combine Everything: Sprinkle the unsalted dry-roasted cashews into the skillet and stir. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, then simmer for 1-2 minutes to heat through and combine flavors.
Serve It Up: Incorporate sliced green onions into the dish, mixing well, and serve immediately over a bed of steamed rice or noodles.

Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an extra touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Better-Than-Takeout Cashew Chicken?

Transform your simple stir-fry into a full meal that delights the senses and leaves everyone asking for seconds.

Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture and fragrant aroma of jasmine rice soak up the savory sauce beautifully, making each bite heavenly.
Vegetable Fried Rice: Elevate your meal with colorful fried rice, featuring peas, carrots, and scrambled eggs for a fulfilling side dish that complements the cashew chicken's crunch.
Garlic Noodles: These tender noodles provide an irresistible, buttery flavor that pairs well with the stir-fry, adding a delightful twist to the classic combination.
Crunchy Asian Slaw: A refreshing slaw tossed with sesame dressing adds crunch and brightness, perfectly balancing the rich flavors of the cashew chicken.
Stir-Fried Bok Choy: Lightly sautéed with garlic, bok choy brings a unique texture and mild flavor that complements the robustness of the chicken.
Mango Salad: A sweet mango salad with lime dressing introduces a tropical element that brightens up the meal and enhances the overall palette.
Chilled Green Tea: A refreshing glass of chilled green tea helps cleanse the palate between bites, offering a soothing contrast to the savory profile of the dish.
Homemade Fortune Cookies: For a fun touch, serve crunchy fortune cookies, inviting your family or guests to enjoy a little bit of whimsy with their meal!

Cashew Chicken Variations

Feel free to get creative and personalize this delightful stir-fry - the possibilities are endless!

Tofu Substitute: Swap out the chicken for extra-firm tofu for a delicious vegetarian twist. Simply press and cube the tofu before following the main recipe.
Veggie Medley: Mix in your favorite vegetables, like snap peas or baby corn, for an extra boost of color and texture. The more, the merrier!
Noodle Addition: Serve the cashew chicken over cooked rice noodles or whole wheat pasta instead of traditional rice. This adds a fun, chewy element to the dish.
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat level by adding red pepper flakes or a diced fresh chili pepper to the stir-fry. Turn up the flavor to match your spice tolerance!
Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the finished dish for a refreshing zesty finish. It brightens up the flavors beautifully!
Nutty Variations: Consider using almonds or peanuts in addition to or instead of cashews for a distinct crunch and flavor. Mix your nuts for a delightful surprise!
Creamy Texture: Stir in a spoonful of creamy peanut butter or almond butter before serving for a rich, nutty sauce that's simply irresistible.
Sesame Twist: Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or some toasted sesame oil when serving. It's a small detail that enhances the flavor and presentation beautifully.

Expert Tips for Better-Than-Takeout Cashew Chicken

Crispy Coating: Ensure you use cornstarch to coat the chicken for a crispy texture; skipping this will result in a softer coating.
Pre-cook Prep: Chop and prep your vegetables beforehand to streamline your cooking process and keep everything ready to go.
Veggie Timing: Be mindful of cooking times; add quick-cooking vegetables like bell peppers early and more dense ones like broccoli later for perfect crispness.
Adjust the Heat: Modify the amount of Asian chili garlic sauce to suit your spice preference while maintaining the rich flavor profile of your Cashew Chicken.
Storage Secrets: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days, but consume them quickly for the best taste and texture.

How to Store and Freeze Cashew Chicken

Fridge: Store your leftover Cashew Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while ensuring it's safe to eat.
Freezer: While it's best not to freeze the dish due to the risk of soggy cashews upon thawing, the chicken and veggie mix can be frozen for up to 2 months if necessary.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce, or microwave until heated through, ensuring even warmth.
Meal Prep: For make-ahead meals, prepare all ingredients in advance and store them separately. Cook the dish fresh when ready to enjoy for maximum flavor.

Make Ahead Options

These Better-Than-Takeout Cashew Chicken ingredients are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cut and prep the chicken and vegetables (like broccoli and bell peppers) up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. In addition, you can whisk together the sauce ingredients and keep it refrigerated for up to 3 days. This way, when you're ready to cook, simply heat the oils in a skillet, add the chicken, and continue with the recipe by tossing in the prepped veggies and sauce. Follow these steps, and you'll have a vibrant, healthy dinner on the table in no time, just as delicious as if you made it fresh!

Better-Than-Takeout Cashew Chicken Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right chicken for this recipe?
Choosing the right chicken can really elevate your Cashew Chicken! I recommend using boneless skinless chicken breasts for a lean option, but boneless skinless chicken thighs can add additional flavor and juiciness. Just remember to dice the chicken into 1-inch pieces for even cooking!

What's the best way to store leftover Cashew Chicken?
You can store your leftover Cashew Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to preserve the flavors and freshness. For reheating, you can use a skillet over medium heat or a microwave, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.

Can I freeze Cashew Chicken?
I generally advise against freezing the entire dish due to the risk of cashews becoming soggy upon thawing. However, if you must freeze, you can freeze the chicken and vegetable mix (without the cashews) for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then cook on medium heat, adding fresh cashews and sauce.

What should I do if my sauce isn't thickening?
If your sauce isn't thickening as expected, it might be because the cornstarch hasn't activated properly. To remedy this, try mixing a teaspoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry and stir it into the cooking sauce. Continue cooking for a couple of minutes until it thickens up beautifully.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! If you have nut allergies, you can simply omit the cashews and consider adding toasted pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch. Additionally, you might want to use gluten-free soy sauce if you're sensitive to gluten. This recipe is quite adaptable to many dietary needs!

Can I make this dish vegetarian or vegan?
Definitely! You can replace the chicken with tofu or even tempeh for a great plant-based option. Just remember to press and cube the tofu before adding it to the skillet for the best texture. You can also throw in any veggies you have on hand; snap peas, carrots, or bell peppers work wonderfully!