Looking for a quick, flavorful, and better-than-takeout meal you can whip up at home? Chinese Cashew Chicken is your answer. Tender bites of chicken are tossed in a garlicky, savory sauce and finished with the irresistible crunch of roasted cashews. It’s fast, satisfying, and brings all the comfort of a good stir fry right to your dinner table.

This dish is a weeknight wonder—simple to make, easy to customize, and loaded with flavor. Whether you’re a stir-fry beginner or a seasoned home cook, this recipe fits right into your routine. Plus, it’s way healthier than the deep-fried versions you find in many restaurants.

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Cashew Chicken

This isn’t just another stir-fry. The sauce is a perfect balance of soy, garlic, hoisin, and a splash of rice vinegar to cut through the richness. The chicken stays juicy, the veggies stay crisp, and the cashews add buttery crunch in every bite. It’s great over rice, noodles, or even on its own as a protein-packed dish.

Chinese Cashew Chicken is ideal for meal prep and reheats like a dream, making it one of those dishes you’ll find yourself craving all week long.

What Cut of Chicken Should I Use?

Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are a great choice for flavor and tenderness, but boneless chicken breasts also work if you prefer a leaner option. The key is cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces and cooking them quickly over high heat. This helps retain moisture while giving the edges that irresistible golden sear.

Ingredients for the Chinese Cashew Chicken

The key to perfect Chinese Cashew Chicken lies in fresh ingredients and a well-balanced sauce. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this savory classic to life:

Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, they hold up well to stir-frying without drying out.
Cornstarch: Helps create a light crust on the chicken and thickens the sauce just right.
Soy sauce: Brings the umami-rich backbone to the sauce.
Hoisin sauce: Adds depth and a slightly sweet richness.
Garlic: A must-have for that fragrant stir-fry aroma.
Rice vinegar: Cuts through the richness with a light tang.
Sesame oil: A few drops go a long way for that nutty, toasty finish.
Cashews: Roasted, unsalted cashews offer creamy crunch that balances the dish.
Green onions: Freshness and mild sharpness that complements the savory sauce.
Bell peppers: Adds color and natural sweetness to round out the flavor.

How To Make the Chinese Cashew Chicken

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and toss them in a little cornstarch until evenly coated. This helps them brown and gives the sauce something to cling to.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding. Let each piece get golden and crispy on the outside. Set cooked chicken aside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, garlic, rice vinegar, and a splash of water. Set this aside—it’s your stir-fry magic.

Step 4: Stir-Fry the Veggies

Add bell peppers and the white part of the green onions to the pan. Stir-fry just until crisp-tender, about 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Return the chicken to the pan and pour in the sauce. Toss to coat and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the chicken and veggies.

Step 6: Finish with Cashews

Add roasted cashews and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir to combine. Garnish with the green part of the green onions before serving.

Serving and Storing Chinese Cashew Chicken

This recipe feeds about four people generously, especially when paired with rice or noodles. Serve it piping hot straight from the skillet with jasmine rice, brown rice, or lo mein noodles to soak up the savory sauce.

Leftovers? They reheat beautifully. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. A quick spin in the microwave or skillet brings it right back to life. It also makes a great next-day lunch!

What to Serve With Chinese Cashew Chicken?

Steamed Jasmine Rice

This is the classic base that complements the bold flavors of the sauce.

Fried Rice

Turn your meal into a full Chinese takeout feast by pairing it with a bowl of vegetable or egg fried rice.

Garlic Green Beans

Crisp, garlicky green beans are the perfect bright, healthy contrast.

Egg Rolls

Serve some crispy egg rolls on the side for a satisfying crunch.

Asian Cucumber Salad

Cool and refreshing, cucumber salad cuts through the richness beautifully.

Lo Mein Noodles

Tossed in soy and sesame, noodles add a hearty, slurp-worthy addition.

Hot and Sour Soup

A small bowl of this tangy soup adds variety and traditional flavor.

Pineapple Chunks or Mango Slices

The sweetness of fresh fruit balances the salty and savory flavors on the plate.

Want More Chicken Dinner Ideas?

If you’re into quick chicken recipes with flavor that packs a punch, you’ll love these next:

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And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you go heavy on the cashews? Maybe added a little chili sauce for kick?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other cook smarter.

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