Are you a fan of the creamy, nutty flavor of cashews paired with the savory taste of chicken? If so, you’re in luck! We’ve got 20 mouth-watering cashew chicken recipes that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you wanting more. From spicy Szechuan dishes to sweet and sour stir-fries, we’ve gathered a diverse array of cashew chicken recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of international flavors and techniques to bring out the best in these two popular ingredients. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something on this list to make your taste buds dance with joy. So grab your favorite cooking tools, get ready to get creative, and let’s dive into our collection of 20 delicious cashew chicken recipes everyone will love!
Spicy Szechuan Cashew Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy cashew chicken dish, featuring crispy fried chicken, crunchy cashews, and a savory sauce infused with chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup cashews, toasted
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1-2 dried red chili peppers, crushed (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix chicken with cornstarch and toss until coated.
2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat. Cook chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Add cashews, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Szechuan peppercorns, and crushed chili peppers to the wok. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory stir-fry that combines the richness of cashews with the bold flavors of honey and garlic, all wrapped up in a quick and easy dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and 1 tbsp water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Pour honey mixture into the pan and stir to combine with garlic.
5. Add cashews and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
6. Return chicken to the pan and toss to coat with the honey-garlic sauce.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Cashew Chicken with Bell Peppers
A flavorful and crunchy Asian-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty goodness of cashews, all wrapped up in crispy chicken breast. This recipe is a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
3. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and coat with cashews, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Place bell peppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake chicken and bell peppers for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Curry Cashew Chicken
This recipe combines the warmth of curry spices with the richness of coconut milk and the crunch of toasted cashews, making for a unique and satisfying chicken dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp turmeric
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/2 cup cashews, toasted and chopped
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk; stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Stir in toasted cashews; garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Teriyaki Cashew Chicken Skewers
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of Japan with these easy-to-make Teriyaki Cashew Chicken Skewers, perfect for a quick dinner or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Thread chicken, cashews, and pineapple chunks (optional) onto wooden skewers.
4. Brush the skewers with the teriyaki mixture.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Get ready to wrap your taste buds around this delightful Asian-inspired dish! This recipe is a creative twist on traditional chicken wraps, with the added crunch and creaminess of cashews.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions, diced bell peppers, or shredded carrots for added color
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cashews, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and sesame oil.
2. Add chicken to the bowl and toss until coated with the cashew mixture.
3. Cook chicken in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until cooked through (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Warm lettuce leaves by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
5. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken onto a lettuce leaf and serving with additional cashews if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Orange Ginger Cashew Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the sweetness of oranges with the spiciness of ginger, all wrapped up in a crunchy cashew crust. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and coat with cashews, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional orange zest if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Basil Cashew Chicken
A flavorful and aromatic Thai-inspired dish that combines the sweetness of cashews with the spiciness of chilies, all wrapped up in a savory chicken package. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 tablespoon Thai red curry paste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup cashews
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh Thai basil
– 2-3 dried Thai chilies, crushed or 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lime wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining oil, garlic, ginger, and curry paste. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add cashews and cook until lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in Thai basil, crushed chilies or chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
6. Return chicken to the pan and stir to combine. Cook until heated through.
7. Serve hot with fresh lime wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Fried Rice
This recipe combines the savory flavors of chicken, cashews, and rice in a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any time of day. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can have a delicious and satisfying dish on your table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the chopped cashews and cook for an additional minute.
4. Push the chicken mixture to one side of the pan.
5. Crack in the egg and scramble it into the empty side of the pan.
6. Stir-fry everything together with the soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Mix in the cooked rice and stir-fry until combined and heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Noodle Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the creaminess of cashews with the savory taste of chicken, all wrapped up in a warm noodle bowl. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked noodles (rice noodles or egg noodles work well)
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook noodles according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add cashews, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and ginger to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Combine cooked noodles with the chicken mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cashew Chicken
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the crunch of cashews with the tanginess of a sweet and sour sauce, all wrapped up in tender chicken and fresh vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the cashews and cook until lightly toasted, stirring frequently.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Stir in the sweet and sour sauce and bring to a simmer.
6. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cashew Chicken with Broccoli
This savory and aromatic dish combines the creaminess of cashews with the crunch of chicken and broccoli, making it a perfect option for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cashews, chopped
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Add cashews and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add broccoli and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until tender-crisp.
6. Return chicken to the pan and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using).
7. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until chicken is fully cooked.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemongrass Cashew Chicken
This aromatic dish combines the freshness of lemongrass with the creaminess of cashews and savory chicken, making it a perfect blend of Asian-inspired flavors. With this easy recipe, you’ll be enjoying a delightful meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil for sautéing
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine lemongrass, garlic, soy sauce, honey, and ginger; blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high. Add the chicken and cook until browned on both sides (about 5-6 minutes).
4. Transfer the chicken to a baking dish and brush with the lemongrass mixture. Sprinkle cashews on top.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the cashews are toasted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Cashew Chicken Spring Rolls
Transform your mealtime with these crispy and savory spring rolls filled with a delicious cashew chicken filling.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers (usually found in the frozen food section or international aisle)
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1/4 cup chopped roasted cashews
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the chopped cilantro, scallions, and garlic. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, along with soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Stir until combined.
5. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the chicken filling in the center.
6. Brush the edges with water and fold the bottom half up over the filling. Fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
7. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling. Fry the spring rolls in hot oil until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Tacos with Sriracha Mayo
Elevate your taco game with this creamy and spicy recipe that combines the richness of cashews with the boldness of sriracha. This unique flavor combination is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cashew cream (see note)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sriracha mayo (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sliced radishes, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, and cumin to the skillet. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cashew cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos by spooning chicken mixture onto tortillas and topping with sriracha mayo and desired toppings.
Sriracha Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
Mix ingredients together until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking time: approximately 20-25 minutes.
Cashew Chicken Pizza with Goat Cheese
Elevate your pizza game with this creamy and savory Cashew Chicken Pizza featuring a tangy goat cheese twist. Perfect for a unique dinner party or cozy night in, this recipe combines the best of both worlds – spicy chicken and rich goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup cashews, toasted
– 1/4 cup goat cheese crumbles
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
2. Spread olive oil on the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with chicken, cashews, goat cheese, and red onion.
4. Sprinkle garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Salad with Sesame Dressing
A refreshing twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines juicy chicken, crunchy cashews, and creamy sesame dressing for a flavorful and healthy snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup toasted cashews, chopped
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, scallions, and cashews.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the chicken mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Cashew Chicken Dumplings
These pan-seared dumplings are filled with a flavorful mixture of cooked chicken, cashews, and spices, making for a satisfying and savory snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine chicken, cashews, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place a small spoonful of the filling in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal.
4. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pan-fry dumplings until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
5. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cashew Chicken Potstickers
Experience the perfect blend of Asian flavors and crispy potsticker wrappers with this simple recipe. These Cashew Chicken Potstickers are a delicious twist on traditional wontons, filled with tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and savory soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 wrappers)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup chopped cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions or sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chicken, cashews, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place 1 tablespoon of the chicken mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Dip your finger in water and run it along the edges of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press edges together to seal.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Cook potstickers in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
7. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Stuffed Peppers
Elevate your dinner game with these flavorful and nutritious stuffed peppers! This recipe combines the creaminess of cashews, the juiciness of chicken, and the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add cilantro, cashews, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Stuff each pepper with the chicken mixture and top with shredded cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meal routine with these 20 delicious cashew chicken recipes! From classic stir-fries to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Try Spicy Szechuan Cashew Chicken for a bold and savory flavor, or Honey Garlic Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry for a sweet and sticky taste. Or why not go exotic with Coconut Curry Cashew Chicken or Lemongrass Cashew Chicken? And don’t forget the fun recipes like Cashew Chicken Tacos with Sriracha Mayo and Cashew Chicken Pizza with Goat Cheese. Whatever your craving, there’s a recipe here to satisfy it!
