If you’ve ever craved a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that is both comforting and quick to make, then this Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is about to become your new weeknight hero. Perfectly tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and crisp colorful vegetables come together with a luscious, savory sauce that sings with umami and a hint of sweetness. Every bite brings an explosion of textures and flavors that will have you reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds. Let me walk you through this incredible recipe that’s as delightful to make as it is to eat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe uses simple, fresh ingredients that each play an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and visual appeal. From the tender chicken to the crunchy cashews and vibrant veggies, every component brings something special to your plate.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts: Provides tender, juicy protein that soaks up all the delicious sauce.
- 1/2 cup cashews: Adds a satisfying crunch and rich nutty flavor that contrasts perfectly with the soft chicken.
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced: Brings sweetness and gorgeous color to brighten up the dish.
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced: Enhances visual appeal and adds a slightly tangy crispness.
- 1 cup snap peas: Offers a fresh snap and mild sweetness, balancing the savory elements.
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce: A salty, umami backbone for the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce: Delivers depth and a hint of sweetness with a savory punch.
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce: Adds complexity and richness with a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brightens the flavors with a gentle acidic tang.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Balances savory and acidic notes with natural sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the dish with aromatic, zesty warmth.
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced: Adds a fresh, peppery spice that livens the stir fry.
- 2 green onions, chopped: Brings a mild onion flavor and freshness as a finishing touch.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: Essential for stir-frying and ensuring everything cooks evenly.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance and balance the flavors.
How to Make Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Step 1: Sear the Chicken to Perfection
Begin by heating vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once hot, add your bite-sized chicken pieces. Stir-fry them until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through—this usually takes about 5 to 6 minutes. This initial sear locks in the juiciness while adding delicious caramelized flavor. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Bring Aromatics to Life
Using the same skillet, toss in the minced garlic and ginger. Cook them for about one minute until they become fragrant and start to weave their aromatic spell over the dish—this step adds a fantastic base layer of flavor that just can’t be rushed.
Step 3: Add Colorful Crunchy Veggies
Next, introduce the sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with snap peas to your skillet. Stir-fry these vibrant vegetables for 2 to 3 minutes, just until they become tender-crisp. This ensures they retain their wonderful crunch and fresh taste, which is key to the textural play in this recipe.
Step 4: Whisk Up the Flavor-Packed Sauce
While your veggies are cooking, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar in a small bowl. Whisk them together into a smooth, balanced sauce that brings together sweet, salty, tangy, and savory notes. This sauce serves as the heart of the Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and pour your homemade sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything well to coat all the ingredients evenly. Allow it to cook for another 2 to 3 minutes so the flavors meld and the sauce thickens slightly, creating that gorgeous glossy finish.
Step 6: Toss in Cashews and Green Onions
Finally, stir in the crunchy cashews and chopped green onions. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes to warm through and let the onion’s fresh bite shine. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and then you’re ready to savor the magic of this classic dish.
How to Serve Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle some extra chopped green onions or toasted sesame seeds over your Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe for a delightful, vibrant pop of color and an added layer of flavor. Fresh cilantro also makes a lovely, fragrant garnish that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Side Dishes
This stir fry shines served over simple steamed jasmine rice or brown rice to soak up all those savory sauces. For a low-carb option, try cauliflower rice or even quinoa for a protein boost and a different texture experience. Light, crisp cucumber salad or steamed dumplings can also complement the meal nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe in warm lettuce cups—perfect for family meals or casual get-togethers. You can also wrap the stir fry in soft tortillas for a fusion-inspired taco treat, or pile it high on a bed of perfectly cooked ramen noodles to switch up the texture and flavor profile.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce keeps the chicken moist, and the vegetables maintain some of their crunch, so your second meal stays just as tasty.
Freezing
If you want to freeze the stir fry, it’s best to keep it without the cashews (to retain their crunch). Place the cooked chicken and vegetables with sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add the cashews fresh after reheating for that perfect crunch. Avoid microwaving if possible, as reheating on the stove helps maintain the texture and flavor integrity of the stir fry.
FAQs
Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?
Absolutely! While cashews are traditional for their creamy crunch, almonds or peanuts can be great substitutes if you prefer or have dietary restrictions. Just toast them lightly to bring out their best flavor.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
The recipe can easily be made gluten-free by substituting the soy sauce with tamari or another gluten-free soy sauce alternative. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes! Chicken thighs add a bit more richness and tend to stay juicy even if slightly overcooked. Just cut them into similar bite-sized pieces and adjust cooking time accordingly.
How spicy is this dish?
The Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is not spicy by default, making it family-friendly and approachable. You can add red chili flakes or fresh chili slices if you want to add some heat.
What is the best way to cut the vegetables?
Slice the bell peppers into thin strips and keep snap peas whole or halved lengthwise. Uniform sizes help everything cook evenly and create an attractive presentation.
Final Thoughts
This Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe is a total winner for anyone who loves bright flavors, satisfying textures, and quick meals that never feel rushed or basic. It’s a dish you can make any night but feel like you’ve treated yourself to something special. Gather your ingredients, get that skillet sizzling, and dive into a dinner that’ll have everyone asking for your secret!
Print
Cashew Chicken Stir Fry Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian
Description
This Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring tender chicken pieces stir-fried with crunchy cashews and colorful bell peppers. Ready in just 30 minutes, it combines a savory sauce of soy, oyster, and hoisin with fresh garlic, ginger, and snap peas for a quick and delicious meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
Ingredients
Protein
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
Vegetables and Nuts
- 1/2 cup cashews
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup snap peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- 2 green onions, chopped
Sauces and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the oil: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat to prepare for sautéing the chicken and vegetables.
- Cook the chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the hot skillet and stir-fry until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Then remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to keep warm.
- Sauté aromatics: Using the same skillet, add the minced garlic and ginger. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant to build the flavor base.
- Cook vegetables: Add sliced red and yellow bell peppers along with snap peas to the skillet. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp but still vibrant and fresh.
- Prepare sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, and brown sugar until the sugar dissolves and the sauce is well combined.
- Combine chicken and sauce: Return the cooked chicken pieces to the skillet. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir everything together and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Add cashews and green onions: Stir in the cashews and chopped green onions. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to warm through and meld flavors.
- Season: Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed to enhance flavor.
- Serve: Serve hot over steamed rice for a complete and satisfying meal.
Notes
- For extra crunch, toast the cashews lightly in the skillet before starting the chicken.
- You can substitute chicken breasts with chicken thighs for a juicier result.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes or sliced fresh chili along with the garlic and ginger.
- This stir-fry is best served immediately to maintain the crisp texture of the vegetables.
- Use low-sodium soy sauce to reduce sodium content if preferred.
