Chicken With Cashew Nuts
Tender chicken breasts stir-fried with crunchy cashew nuts and savory sauce, offering a delightful blend of textures and flavors perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dice the chicken breasts.
- Add the egg white and cornstarch to the chicken and season with salt, ajinomoto, soy sauce, and sugar. Mix well and set aside.
- Fry the cashew nuts in cooking oil until brown and crisp. Remove and set aside.
- Deep fry the seasoned chicken breasts until cooked through.
- Drain the excess oil from the chicken.
- Disperse 1 tablespoon of cornstarch in 1/4 cup of water to make a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch slurry to the chicken and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Top the dish with the crispy cashew nuts.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful dish, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking. If you're out of cashew nuts, walnuts or almonds can be a great substitute. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, and consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or broccoli for a colorful twist, similar to Chicken Vegetable Stir-Fry Burritos.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot over a bed of steamed rice or alongside stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Yu Nien-Tze Chang'S Chow Mein (Fried Noodles) for a delightful fusion dinner. Garnish with fresh cilantro or green onions for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the chicken in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid reheating in the microwave to maintain the crispy texture of the cashew nuts.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chicken With Cashew Nuts contains roughly 450 calories, with 8g protein, 90g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of calcium (18% of the Daily Value), protein (16% of the Daily Value), and potassium (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2122mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
Yes, chicken thighs can be used instead of chicken breasts for a richer flavor and juicier texture. Just adjust the cooking time as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What can I use instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option?
You can use tamari or coconut aminos as a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce. Both options provide a similar umami flavor without the gluten, making it suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating sliced fresh chilies, red pepper flakes, or a dash of sriracha into the marinade or the cooking process. Adjust the amount according to your spice preference to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).