Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that perfectly balances spice and crunch? Look no further than our Spicy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry! This vibrant and mouthwatering recipe combines succulent chicken, crisp vegetables, and the delightful crunch of cashews, all enveloped in a zesty sauce that will leave you craving more. With just 25 minutes from prep to plate, this dish is not only quick and easy but also a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any dinner table. Dive into the recipe below and discover how to bring a taste of Asia right into your kitchen!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1 cup cashews
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots)
- 3 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tbsp chili paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 lb of cubed chicken breast, 1 cup of cashews, 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots), 3 tablespoons of soy sauce, 2 tablespoons of chili paste, 2 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon of minced ginger, and 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed chicken breast with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce and let it marinate for about 5 minutes while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Ensure the oil is hot but not smoking.
- Add the marinated chicken to the skillet in a single layer. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once the chicken is cooked, push it to one side of the skillet. In the empty space, add the minced garlic and ginger. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn them.
- Next, add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Pour in the remaining 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and the 2 tablespoons of chili paste. Stir well to combine all the ingredients and coat them evenly with the sauce.
- Add the cashews to the skillet and mix them into the stir fry. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the cashews to warm through and absorb some of the flavors.
- Once everything is well combined and heated through, remove the skillet from heat. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more soy sauce or chili paste according to your preference.
- Serve the spicy cashew chicken stir fry hot, either on its own or over a bed of steamed rice or noodles, if desired. Enjoy your delicious and flavorful meal!
Tips
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate in soy sauce for at least 5 minutes to enhance its flavor. For even more depth, consider marinating it longer if you have the time.
- High Heat is Key: When cooking, make sure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding the chicken. This helps to achieve that perfect sear and keeps the chicken juicy.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix and match your vegetables! Snow peas, snap peas, or even zucchini can add a unique twist to the dish.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you're not a fan of intense heat, reduce the amount of chili paste or serve the dish with a side of sweet chili sauce for a milder option.
- Serve with a Side: For a complete meal, serve your stir fry over steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce.
- Leftovers: This stir fry makes great leftovers! Store any extras in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet for best results.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 95mg
