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Cashew chicken is a beloved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of many food enthusiasts around the world. Known for its tantalizing combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables, this dish is a staple in many Chinese restaurants. However, making cashew chicken at home can elevate your dining experience to new heights, offering flavors that often surpass takeout. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrition.

Better-Than-Takeout Cashew Chicken

Craving takeout? This Better-Than-Takeout Cashew Chicken is the perfect solution! Made with tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and colorful bell peppers, all tossed in a delicious sauce, it’s quick and easy to whip up at home. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cook time of 45, this dish is ready to impress in no time. Serve it over rice or quinoa for a satisfying meal. Your taste buds will thank you!
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Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts, diced

1 cup raw cashews

1 bell pepper (red or green), diced

1 medium onion, sliced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1-inch piece ginger, minced

1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium)

2 tablespoons oyster sauce

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for cooking)

1 tablespoon sesame oil

2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Salt and black pepper to taste

Cooked rice or quinoa (for serving)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a medium bowl, combine diced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and cornstarch. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 20 minutes while you prep the other ingredients.

    Toast the Cashews: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the cashews for about 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly until golden brown. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

      Cook the Chicken: In the same skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken in a single layer and cook for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside.

        Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, add a little more oil if necessary, and then add the garlic, ginger, onions, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.

          Combine: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Add the toasted cashews and drizzle with sesame oil. Mix everything together for about 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

            Serve: Remove from heat and serve the cashew chicken warm over a bed of rice or quinoa. Garnish with sliced green onions.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Servings: 4