Are you tired of the same old weeknight dinner routine? Look no further! We’ve got a spicy solution for you: 20 mouth-watering cashew chicken recipes that are sure to spice up your mealtime. From Szechuan-inspired stir-fries to crispy, chili-spiced bites and creamy curry sauces, these dishes offer a flavorful escape from the ordinary.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through a variety of cuisines and cooking styles, all featuring one star ingredient: cashews! Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and spicy or savory and nutty, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, get creative, and let the heat be on!
Spicy Szechuan Cashew Chicken
This Spicy Szechuan Cashew Chicken recipe combines the bold flavors of Szechuan peppercorns and chili flakes with crunchy cashews and savory chicken. Perfect for a quick and spicy dinner, this dish is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup roasted cashews, chopped
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp Shaoxing wine (or dry sherry)
– 1 tsp Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1/2 tsp chili flakes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from wok.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and cashews; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add soy sauce, wine, Szechuan peppercorns, and chili flakes. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the wok; cook until coated with the sauce, about 2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Honey Garlic Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this mouthwatering dish, featuring succulent chicken, crunchy cashews, and a hint of honey. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 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.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, and ginger. Pour into pan and stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to pan and toss with the glaze until coated.
6. Stir in cashews and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Crispy Cashew Chicken with Chili Sauce
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional chicken, this dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as an appetizer for your next gathering. Crunchy cashews add a delightful texture to the crispy fried chicken, while the chili sauce brings a tangy kick.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chili sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, panko breadcrumbs, cashews, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Dip chicken pieces into the mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry chicken until golden brown and crispy (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Remove chicken from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess grease.
5. Serve hot with chili sauce for dipping.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Cashew Chicken
This recipe combines the flavors of Thailand with the crunch of cashews and the spiciness of chili peppers, creating a delicious and savory dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 2 tablespoons Thai basil leaves
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add remaining oil, garlic, and ginger. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add cashews and Thai basil leaves. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute.
7. Add chicken back to the pan and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cashew Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines crispy chicken, creamy cashews, and crunchy lettuce for a flavorful and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Add chicken and toss to coat.
2. Cook chicken in a large skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, toast cashews in a small dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or until fragrant.
4. Assemble wraps by placing cooked chicken onto lettuce leaves, then topping with toasted cashews and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Cashew Chicken Skewers
Succulent chicken skewers infused with the perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, topped with crunchy cashews.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon grated ginger
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup chopped cashews
• 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade; toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Brush grill with oil. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Remove from heat; sprinkle with chopped cashews.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken with Coconut Curry Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this creamy and aromatic Cashew Chicken dish, smothered in a rich Coconut Curry Sauce. Perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, garlic, ginger, and 2 tablespoons water. Blend until smooth.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add coconut milk, cashew mixture, and cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes or until sauce thickens slightly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Kung Pao Cashew Chicken
A spicy and savory twist on traditional Kung Pao chicken, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine with the crunch of cashews.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
– 1/4 cup roasted cashews
– 1/4 cup peanuts
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, cashews, peanuts, soy sauce, vinegar, honey, cornstarch, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir-fry for 1 minute.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Fried Rice
A flavorful and savory twist on traditional fried rice, this Cashew Chicken Fried Rice recipe combines the crunch of cashews with the comfort of chicken and spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken breast
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup cashews, chopped
– 2 teaspoons 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 diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked chicken, cashews, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok and stir-fry until combined with the chicken and cashew mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken Noodle Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and springy noodles.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, snap peas)
– 1/4 cup cashew butter
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 8 oz rice noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of cashew butter over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In the same skillet, add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Pour the mixture over the cooked chicken and vegetables; stir to combine.
5. Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over the cooked noodles. Top with toasted cashews (optional) and garnish with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Orange Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
A sweet and savory stir-fry that combines the flavors of orange, cashews, and chicken for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
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 orange marmalade, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, and cashews. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add bell pepper and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cashew Chicken with Broccoli and Bell Peppers
This recipe is a classic Chinese-inspired dish that combines the creamy richness of cashews with the bold flavors of chicken, broccoli, and bell peppers. With just a few simple ingredients and 20 minutes of cooking time, you can have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup sliced bell peppers (any color)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 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 and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, garlic, soy sauce, and cashews. Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Teriyaki Cashew Chicken Skillet
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot meal that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the crunch of cashews and the juiciness of chicken. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, honey, and brown sugar. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the skillet; stir to coat with teriyaki sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Sprinkle cashews on top and cook for 1 minute.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Cashew Chicken and Vegetable Lo Mein
A delicious and savory stir-fry recipe that combines the crunch of cashews, the creaminess of lo mein noodles, and the flavor of chicken and vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 1 cup cashews
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 cup lo mein noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook lo mein noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a wok or large skillet, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from wok and set aside.
3. In the same wok, add remaining 1 tbsp of vegetable oil. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using) to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the wok and stir-fry until combined with vegetables and sauce.
6. Add cashews and stir-fry until they’re evenly distributed throughout the dish.
7. Serve lo mein noodles on top of the cashew chicken mixture.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Cashew Chicken Tacos
Get ready to spice up your taco game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the creamy richness of cashews, the bold flavor of chipotle peppers, and the juiciness of chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/4 cup cashews
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chicken, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Blend until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast cashews in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, or until fragrant.
5. Assemble tacos by slicing chicken, adding toasted cashews, and topping with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cashew Chicken with Pineapple and Peppers
This recipe combines the creamy richness of cashews, the juiciness of pineapple, and the crunch of peppers for a flavorful and nutritious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup cashew butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together cashew butter, soy sauce, and honey.
3. Add chicken to the bowl and toss to coat evenly.
4. Transfer chicken to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Top chicken with pineapple, red bell pepper, and yellow bell pepper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Garnish with cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cashew Chicken and Mushroom Stir-Fry
This creamy and savory stir-fry combines the flavors of cashews, chicken, and mushrooms, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. With minimal prep time and cooking, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
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 5-6 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. In the same pan, add the mushrooms and garlic. Cook until the mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cashews and soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the mushroom-cashew mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cashew Chicken with Black Bean Sauce
This recipe combines the creamy richness of cashews with the bold flavors of black beans and spices, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for adventurous eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1/4 cup black bean paste (or canned black beans, drained and rinsed)
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and toasted cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine cashews, garlic, soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and salt. Blend until smooth.
3. Heat the blended mixture in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in black bean paste and rice vinegar. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted cashews if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cashew Chicken and Snow Peas in Garlic Sauce
This recipe combines the creaminess of cashews with the crunch of snow peas, all wrapped up in a savory garlic sauce. It’s a quick and easy Chinese-inspired dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup fresh snow peas, sliced
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook chicken and snow peas in a wok or large skillet with 1 tsp olive oil over medium-high heat until cooked through.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, garlic, and cashews.
3. Add the cashew mixture to the wok and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, until the sauce is bubbly and slightly thickened.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Cashew Chicken with Ginger and Scallions
This classic Chinese-inspired dish combines succulent chicken, crunchy cashews, and a savory sauce infused with the warmth of ginger and scallions. A flavorful and aromatic meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup cashews
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 scallion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
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 scallion; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and cashews. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and stir to combine with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your weeknight dinners with these 20 delicious cashew chicken recipes! From Szechuan-inspired dishes to sweet and spicy skewers, there’s something for everyone. Try Honey Garlic Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry for a classic takeout-style meal or Spicy Cashew Chicken Tacos for a flavorful twist on traditional tacos. For a comforting bowl, try Cashew Chicken Noodle Bowl or go bold with Kung Pao Cashew Chicken. Whichever recipe you choose, these cashew chicken dishes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
