Orange Cashew Chicken
Orange Cashew Chicken is a vibrant dish featuring tender chicken coated in a tangy orange soy sauce, complemented by crunchy cashews and sweet mandarin oranges. Perfect for those who enjoy a balance of sweet, savory, and citrus flavors, it makes a delightful and colorful meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Stir together orange juice, soy sauce and grated ginger root.
- Add chicken to the mixture and let stand for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Drain the chicken and set aside the sauce.
- Saute the chicken in olive oil until cooked through.
- Mix the reserved sauce with cornstarch until smooth.
- Stir the sauce mixture into the pan with the chicken and cook until thick and bubbly.
- Stir in mandarin orange segments and cashews before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or overnight. You can substitute the orange juice with fresh pineapple juice for a different taste. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or serve with a side of Spicy Orange Chicken for contrast. Ensure the chicken is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Orange Cashew Chicken over a bed of steamed jasmine rice or quinoa to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs beautifully with a side of Oriental Brussels Sprouts for a colorful and nutritious meal. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for added texture and flavor, and enjoy this dish as a delightful centerpiece for a weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Orange Cashew Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even warming.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Orange Cashew Chicken contains roughly 933 calories, with 13g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (35% of the Daily Value), iron (27% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. 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 frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but it's best to thaw it first for even cooking. If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked chicken, adding it to the sauce mixture to heat through. Just be cautious not to overcook it, as it can become dry.
What can I substitute for cashews if I have a nut allergy?
If you have a nut allergy, you can omit the cashews entirely or replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch. Toasted pumpkin seeds (pepitas) also work well as a nut-free alternative, adding a delightful texture without compromising flavor.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh. Marinate it in the same sauce for flavor and sauté until golden brown. This will provide a hearty and satisfying meal while still allowing you to enjoy the delightful flavors of the Orange Cashew Chicken.
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).