Introduction
Craving a delicious and healthy stir-fry? This Thai Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry is perfect for you! Packed with tender chicken, crunchy roasted cashews, fresh vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish is the epitome of vibrant Thai flavors. Plus, it’s simple enough to pull together on a busy weeknight in under 30 minutes. Get ready for a satisfying meal that combines savory, spicy, and sweet flavors with a colorful, eye-catching presentation!
Ingredients for Thai Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Thai stir-fry:
Chicken and Marinade
- 500g (1 lb) chicken breast, thinly sliced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
Cooking Oil
- 3 tbsp vegetable oil, divided
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 small onion, cut into wedges
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 cup roasted cashews
- 1/2 cup green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces
Sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tbsp fish sauce
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
Directions
1. Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the sliced chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch. Toss to coat evenly. The cornstarch helps keep the chicken tender while absorbing the flavors. Set aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. Make the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and chicken broth. This balanced sauce is the secret to achieving the signature Thai taste. Set it aside until the final cooking steps.
3. Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken slices and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the skillet, and toss in the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until they just begin to soften but still have a nice crunch.
5. Add Garlic and Sauce
Add the minced garlic, stirring until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Return the chicken to the skillet and pour in the prepared sauce. Stir well, coating all ingredients evenly with the sauce.
6. Add Cashews and Green Onions
Finally, add the roasted cashews and green onions. Stir everything together for 1-2 minutes, ensuring the cashews stay slightly crisp, and the green onions retain their vibrant color. Serve immediately over steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Calories: 380 kcal per serving
- Servings: 4 servings
Why You’ll Love Thai Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
- Quick and Easy: This recipe takes less than 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Bursting with Flavor: The sauce blends soy sauce, oyster sauce, and fish sauce for a classic Thai flavor that’s both savory and slightly sweet.
- Customizable: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the spice level by adding Thai chili peppers for a personalized touch.
Tips for Perfect Thai Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
- Cashew Crunch: Add cashews at the last minute or as a garnish for extra crispiness.
- Add Heat: If you prefer a spicier dish, add Thai chili peppers or a dash of red pepper flakes.
- Protein Swaps: Substitute shrimp or tofu for the chicken if you want a different protein option.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the chicken tender?
Marinating the chicken with soy sauce and cornstarch helps lock in moisture, giving it a tender texture when stir-fried.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with tofu and use vegetarian oyster sauce to keep it plant-based.
What’s the best side for this stir-fry?
This dish pairs wonderfully with jasmine rice, brown rice, or rice noodles.
Is Thai Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry spicy?
This recipe is mild, but you can add Thai chili peppers or chili flakes for more heat.
Can I meal prep this recipe?
Absolutely! Store the stir-fry in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just reheat and enjoy.
What other vegetables work well in this dish?
Broccoli, carrots, and snap peas are great additions that add color, crunch, and nutrition.
Conclusion
This Thai Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry brings the tantalizing flavors of Thailand right to your dinner table! With its beautiful mix of colors, textures, and flavors, this stir-fry is sure to be a hit. Not only is it incredibly flavorful, but it’s also easy to make and highly customizable to your taste. Enjoy a delicious and nourishing meal with family or friends tonight and make this Thai-inspired dish a new weeknight favorite!