Crispy Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry
Indulge in the delightful flavors of our Crispy Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry, a dish bursting with vibrant vegetables and tender chicken chunks. The harmony of textures, from crunchy cashews added at the last minute to the rich umami given by oyster sauce, creates a taste sensation you won't forget. Perfectly paired with fluffy brown rice, this dish is not just a feast for the palate but also a visually stunning meal that is ready in under an hour. Experience the joy of a healthy, quick meal that satisfies both your hunger and your desire for something extraordinary!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
18
Ingredients
Ingredients
brown rice
1 cup (uncooked)
chicken breasts
2 (boneless, skinless, cut into 1-inch pieces)
oyster sauce
2 tablespoons
olive oil
2 tablespoons
garlic cloves
8 (thinly sliced)
carrots
6 (julienned)
broccoli
2 cups (cut into florets)
red peppers
2 (sliced)
orange peppers
2 (sliced)
yellow peppers
2 (sliced)
bamboo shoots
2 cups (drained and rinsed)
water chestnuts
2 cups (drained and rinsed)
cashews
1 cup
garlic salt
1/2 teaspoon
Chinese five spice powder
1/2 teaspoon
pepper
1/2 teaspoon
soy sauce
to taste (optional)
peanut sauce
to taste (optional)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Crispy Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry?
It is a vibrant dish featuring tender chicken chunks, crunchy cashews, and a variety of vegetables like broccoli and peppers, all tossed in a savory oyster sauce and served over brown rice.
How long does it take to prepare this meal?
This recipe is designed to be quick and easy, typically taking under an hour to complete from start to finish.
What kind of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for two boneless, skinless chicken breasts cut into 1-inch pieces.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless skinless chicken thighs can be substituted for breasts if you prefer a juicier texture.
How do I prepare the rice?
You should use 1 cup of uncooked brown rice and prepare it according to package instructions until it is fluffy.
When should I add the cashews?
To maintain their crunch, the cashews should be added at the very last minute before serving.
What gives the stir-fry its umami flavor?
The rich umami flavor comes primarily from the 2 tablespoons of oyster sauce used in the stir-fry.
What vegetables are included in this recipe?
The dish includes carrots, broccoli, red peppers, orange peppers, yellow peppers, bamboo shoots, and water chestnuts.
How should I cut the carrots?
The carrots should be julienned (cut into long, thin strips) for even cooking and a nice texture.
What is Chinese five spice powder?
It is a spice blend typically containing star anise, cloves, Chinese cinnamon, Sichuan pepper, and fennel seeds, providing a complex aromatic flavor.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as healthy due to the high volume of vegetables, lean protein, and the use of brown rice.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure your oyster sauce and soy sauce are certified gluten-free (or use tamari).
How many cloves of garlic are needed?
This recipe uses 8 thinly sliced garlic cloves for a robust garlic flavor.
What can I substitute for bamboo shoots?
If you cannot find bamboo shoots, you can add more peppers, snap peas, or sliced baby corn.
Are the water chestnuts necessary?
Water chestnuts add a unique crunch that does not soften with cooking, but they can be omitted or replaced with celery if needed.
What oil is best for this stir-fry?
The recipe suggests 2 tablespoons of olive oil, though you can use any high-smoke-point oil like peanut or vegetable oil.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
While fresh vegetables provide the best texture, you can use frozen broccoli or pepper strips if you thaw and drain them well first.
Is this recipe spicy?
The base recipe is not spicy, but you can add red pepper flakes or sriracha if you want some heat.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, you can substitute white rice, though it will change the nutritional profile and cooking time.
How do I serve the peanut sauce?
Peanut sauce is listed as optional and can be drizzled over the top to taste for extra creaminess and flavor.
What is the purpose of garlic salt in this recipe?
Garlic salt provides both seasoning and an extra layer of garlic aroma to the chicken and vegetables.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace the chicken with tofu or extra vegetables and use a vegetarian 'oyster' sauce made from mushrooms.
How should the peppers be prepared?
The red, orange, and yellow peppers should all be sliced into thin strips.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Can I freeze this dish?
You can freeze the chicken and vegetable mixture, but the vegetables may lose some of their crispness upon thawing.
How do I reheat the stir-fry?
Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or soy sauce to prevent drying out, or use a microwave.
Can I use roasted or raw cashews?
Roasted cashews are generally preferred for better flavor, but raw cashews can be used and will toast slightly if added to the hot pan.
Is this meal suitable for kids?
Yes, the colorful peppers and mild, savory sauce usually make it a favorite for families with children.
How many servings does this make?
The recipe is designed as a family meal, typically serving 4 to 6 people depending on portion sizes.
Do I need a wok to cook this?
While a wok is traditional for stir-fry, a large skillet or frying pan will work perfectly fine for this recipe.