Chinese Chicken And Cashews
A flavorful Chinese-inspired dish featuring tender chicken, crunchy cashews, crisp celery, and fragrant green onions, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal suitable for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In wok or frying pan, heat enough oil to cook chicken and stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- Add 1/2 cup water and sliced celery to the pan.
- Steam for 2 minutes until celery is crisp but tender.
- Remove celery from the pan and set aside.
- Warm the cashews in the same pan.
- Add the cooked chicken and celery to the cashews in the pan and stir to combine.
- Serve the chicken mixture over cooked rice.
- Optional: Add sweet and sour sauce for extra flavor.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce for about 30 minutes before cooking. If you don't have cashews, try using almonds or peanuts as a substitute. To enhance the dish, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix a little cornstarch with water and add it before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish over fluffy, cooked rice for a complete meal. Consider pairing it with a side of steamed broccoli or a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast. For added flavor, drizzle with a homemade sweet and sour sauce or serve alongside your favorite Chinese recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for 1-2 minutes or stir-fry in a pan on medium heat until warmed through. Avoid reheating the rice separately to prevent it from becoming dry.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Chinese Chicken And Cashews contains roughly 784 calories, with 34g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (68% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and potassium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 other types of meat instead of chicken?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with shrimp, beef, or tofu if you prefer a different protein. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure your chosen protein is cooked through.
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 them suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating sliced fresh chili peppers or a dash of chili sauce into the stir-fry. You could also sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top before serving for an extra kick.
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).