Ingredients for Cashew Chicken
To make this tasty dish, you will need:
- Chicken breast or thighs (1 lb, diced): Use your preferred cut of chicken.
- Cashews (1/2 cup): Roasted and unsalted.
- Soy sauce (1/4 cup): Opt for low-sodium for a healthier option.
- Hoisin sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Provides a robust aroma.
- Ginger (1 teaspoon, grated): Adds a warm and spicy undertone.
- Cornstarch (2 tablespoons): For coating the chicken and thickening the sauce.
- Vegetable oil (2 tablespoons): For cooking the chicken.
- Green bell pepper (1, diced): Adds crunch and color.
- Onion (1, diced): Enhances the flavor profile.
- Green onions (2, sliced): For garnish.
- Rice or noodles (optional): To serve as a base.
Step-by-Step Recipe
- Prepare the chicken: Toss the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, ensuring they are evenly coated.
- Sear the chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken until golden brown and fully cooked, then set aside.
- Cook the vegetables: In the same skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, ginger, and bell pepper until slightly softened.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and 1 tablespoon of corn starch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water.
- Combine and cook: Return the chicken to the skillet, pour the sauce over it, and stir in the cashews. Cook until the sauce thickens and coats everything evenly.
- Garnish and serve: Sprinkle green onions over the dish. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Nutritional Information of Cashew Chicken
Here’s an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving (without rice or noodles):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 30-35 grams
- Carbohydrates: 15-20 grams
- Fat: 15-18 grams
- Sodium: 500-700 mg (varies with soy sauce)
- Sugar: 6-8 grams (from hoisin sauce)
Tips for Customizing Your Cashew Chicken
- Add veggies: Incorporate broccoli, snap peas, or carrots for added nutrients.
- Make it spicy: Add chili flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick.
- Go gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce and a gluten-free hoisin sauce.
- Swap proteins: Replace chicken with tofu, shrimp, or beef for variety.
Try it today and enjoy the delightful combination of chicken and cashews!
