Are you looking for a way to spice up your dinner routine? Look no further than this collection of 18 mouth-watering spicy cashew chicken recipes! From classic Szechuan-inspired dishes to sweet and savory twists, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re in the mood for something bold and adventurous or comforting and familiar, there’s a cashew chicken recipe on this list that’s sure to hit the spot.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different cuisines and flavor profiles that highlight the versatility of cashew chicken. From the spicy kick of Kung Pao cashew chicken to the creamy richness of Cashew Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk, every recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the unique qualities of this beloved dish.
Spicy Szechuan Cashew Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this spicy and savory cashew chicken dish, featuring crispy cashews and a rich chili oil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 cup chili oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add cashews and cook until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil, garlic, ginger, and Szechuan peppercorns. Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add chicken to the pan and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Stir in chili oil, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Return cashews to the pan and toss to combine with the sauce.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the richness of cashews with the bold flavors of honey, garlic, and soy sauce to create a mouthwatering stir-fry that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add garlic, honey, soy sauce, and ginger; stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cashews and bell peppers; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Cashew Chicken
This flavorful dish combines the bold flavors of Thailand with the crunch of cashews and the savory taste of chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed cashews and peanuts
– 2 cups Thai basil leaves
– 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 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add cashews and peanuts; stir-fry until lightly toasted, about 1 minute.
5. Add Thai basil leaves and cook until wilted, about 30 seconds.
6. Return chicken to skillet and stir in soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Crispy Cashew Chicken with Chili Sauce
This recipe combines the crunch of cashews with the spicy kick of chili sauce, all wrapped up in a tender and flavorful chicken dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chili sauce (such as sriracha)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together cornstarch, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss until coated with cornstarch mixture.
3. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
4. Add cashews and cook for 2-3 minutes, until fragrant and lightly toasted.
5. Add chicken to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes, until cooked through.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and chili sauce.
7. Pour sauce over chicken and toss to coat.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Cashew Chicken Skewers
Elevate your dinner game with these succulent chicken skewers marinated in a sweet and spicy mixture, then grilled to perfection. A perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup chopped cashews
– 10-12 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together yogurt, honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add chicken to the marinade, tossing to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
5. Serve hot with chopped cashews sprinkled on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A creative twist on traditional chicken wraps, this recipe combines the crunch of cashews with the tender juiciness of grilled chicken. Perfect for a quick and easy meal or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– Optional: sliced avocado, pickled carrots, or diced bell peppers for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cashews, olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush chicken with the cashew mixture during the last minute of grilling.
5. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips.
6. Assemble wraps by placing a few slices of chicken onto a lettuce leaf, adding any desired toppings.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Orange Cashew Chicken with Jasmine Rice
A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the sweetness of orange, crunch of cashews, and spiciness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup jasmine rice
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add orange juice, garlic, ginger, cashews, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chicken mixture over cooked jasmine rice.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Curry with Coconut Milk
This rich and flavorful curry combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and creamy coconut milk, all wrapped up in a blend of aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, cashews, onions, garlic, ginger, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the spices are fragrant, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the coconut milk and stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Kung Pao Cashew Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of Sichuan cuisine with the crunch of cashews and the richness of chicken, making it a delicious and savory dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup roasted cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon Sichuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the wok.
3. In the same wok, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Sichuan peppercorns, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the cashews and stir-fry for 2 minutes.
5. Return the chicken to the wok and stir-fry until cooked through, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple for any weeknight dinner. With its creamy cashew sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy broccoli, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the pan.
3. In the same pan, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the broccoli and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, and cashews. Pour the mixture over the chicken and stir to coat.
6. Combine the chicken, broccoli, and cashew sauce in the pan. Stir-fry for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is well coated.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Cashew Chicken Bowl
A sweet and savory fusion of Asian-inspired flavors, this Teriyaki Cashew Chicken Bowl is a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any day. Marinate chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and spices, then toss with toasted cashews and serve over fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
– 1/2 cup toasted cashews
– 2 cups cooked white rice
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
2. Add chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Remove chicken from marinade and bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a small skillet, toast cashews over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Serve chicken on top of cooked rice, garnished with toasted cashews.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cashew Chicken with Bell Peppers and Onions
This Chinese-inspired dish combines succulent chicken, crunchy cashews, and sweet bell peppers, all perfectly balanced by a savory sauce. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add the bell peppers and onions; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cashews, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using); stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Cashew Chicken Noodle Soup
Warm up with this creamy and spicy soup that combines the comfort of chicken noodle soup with the crunch of cashews and a kick of heat. This recipe is perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and onions)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup uncooked noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chicken, vegetables, and cashews in a little oil until the chicken is cooked through.
2. Add the chicken broth, noodles, soy sauce, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cashew Chicken Fried Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of chicken, cashews, and soy sauce with the convenience of cooked rice, making it a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 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, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, cashews, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Satay with Peanut Sauce
Savory chicken skewers smothered in creamy peanut sauce, this Southeast Asian-inspired dish is a flavorful and aromatic treat. Perfect for a quick dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup unsalted roasted cashews
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 20-25 bamboo skewers
– Peanut Sauce (recipe below)
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cashews, soy sauce, honey, garlic, and ginger.
3. Thread chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with vegetable oil and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve with Peanut Sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Black Pepper Cashew Chicken
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of cashews with the bold taste of black pepper to create a mouth-watering dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic, ginger, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in cashews and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
5. Add soy sauce and chicken broth to the pan, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
6. Return chicken to the pan and stir to coat with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until cooked through.
7. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken with Snow Peas and Carrots
A flavorful and nutritious Chinese-inspired dish that combines the crunch of snow peas and carrots with the creamy richness of cashews. 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 cup snow peas, sliced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then, add the snow peas and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked chicken back to the skillet and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken is coated with the sauce.
5. Stir in the chopped cashews and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cashew Chicken and Pineapple Skewers
Elevate your appetizers with these flavorful skewers that combine the richness of cashews, the juiciness of chicken, and the sweetness of pineapple.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup unsalted cashews
– 1 ripe pineapple, cut into chunks
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or oven to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and ginger. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Thread chicken, pineapple, and cashews onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush with remaining honey-soy mixture and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook for 8-10 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Summary
Looking for a flavorful dinner that’s packed with spice? Look no further! This article features 18 mouth-watering spicy cashew chicken recipes to add some excitement to your mealtime. From classic stir-fries to noodle soups, and from sweet to savory, these recipes showcase the versatility of cashews in chicken dishes. Whether you’re a fan of Szechuan heat or Thai basil’s subtle flavor, there’s something for everyone in this collection of spicy cashew chicken recipes.
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