Name: Thai Cashew Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce; 1 tablespoon white vinegar; 1 tablespoon sugar; 3 tablespoons water; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 2 tablespoons peanut oil; ¾ cup raw unsalted cashews; 1 medium onion (sliced); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs (cut into 1-inch pieces); 1 medium bell pepper (cut into bite-size pieces); 3 dried red chilies (cut into bite-size pieces); 2 green onions cut into 1-inch pieces

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Thai Cashew Chicken is a delightful stir-fry dish that perfectly balances savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. It’s a dish I often turn to when I crave something satisfying yet quick to prepare. The crunchy cashews paired with tender chicken and colorful vegetables create a vibrant and wholesome meal that never fails to please. The sauce, with its rich umami flavors from the oyster and soy sauces, elevates the dish to a restaurant-quality experience right in your kitchen.

Why It’s My Go-To

This Thai Cashew Chicken recipe is not only incredibly delicious but also a breeze to whip up on a busy weeknight. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a flavorful meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, the combination of protein, healthy fats, and vegetables makes it a well-rounded dish. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe always garners rave reviews. It’s versatile, allowing for easy modifications based on what you have on hand, making it a staple in my recipe collection.

Shopping List

2 tablespoons oyster sauce
2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
1 tablespoon white vinegar
1 tablespoon sugar
3 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon cornstarch
2 tablespoons peanut oil
¾ cup raw unsalted cashews
1 medium onion, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 medium bell pepper, cut into bite-size pieces
3 dried red chilies, cut into bite-size pieces
2 green onions, cut into 1-inch pieces

Equipment at a Glance

Wok or large skillet – ideal for stir-frying and achieving high heat.
Spatula – for tossing ingredients and ensuring even cooking.
Measuring spoons – for precise ingredient measurements.
Cutting board and knife – for chopping vegetables and chicken.

Cook Thai Cashew Chicken Like This

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

In a small bowl, mix together the oyster sauce, low-sodium soy sauce, dark soy sauce, white vinegar, sugar, water, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth and set aside. This sauce will add a wonderful depth of flavor to your Thai Cashew Chicken.

Step 2: Sauté the Cashews

Heat 1 tablespoon of peanut oil in a wok or large skillet over medium heat. Add the raw cashews and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and fragrant. Remove the cashews from the skillet and set them aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of peanut oil. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the chicken thighs. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through.

Step 4: Add Vegetables

Once the chicken is cooked, add the sliced onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and dried red chilies to the skillet. Stir-fry for an additional 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender yet still crisp.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and vegetables, stirring well to coat everything evenly. Let it simmer for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Finally, add the sautéed cashews and green onions, mixing everything together.

Step 6: Serve

Serve your Thai Cashew Chicken hot over steamed rice or noodles. Enjoy the delightful crunch of the cashews paired with the tender chicken and vibrant veggies.

Texture-Safe Substitutions

Chicken thighs can be replaced with chicken breast for a leaner option.
Peanut oil can be substituted with vegetable oil or canola oil if preferred.
Raw cashews can be exchanged for roasted cashews for an additional crunch.
You can swap out bell peppers for broccoli or snap peas for a different texture.

Mistakes Even Pros Make

Not preheating the pan properly can lead to uneven cooking.
Overcrowding the skillet can cause the chicken to steam instead of sear.
Forgetting to whisk the sauce before adding it to the pan may leave clumps of cornstarch.
Using high-sodium sauces can overpower the dish, so stick to low-sodium options.

How to Store & Reheat

To store leftovers, place the Thai Cashew Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist. Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until warm.

Ask & Learn

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Yes, you can use almonds or peanuts as alternatives. However, keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.

Is this dish spicy?

The dried red chilies add some heat, but you can adjust the quantity based on your spice preference. Omit them for a milder dish.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and use vegetarian oyster sauce for a delicious vegetarian version.

What can I serve with Thai Cashew Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed jasmine rice or rice noodles. You can also serve it alongside a fresh cucumber salad for a refreshing contrast.

Reader Favorites

Sally’s Baking Addiction – for dessert inspiration.
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Final Thoughts

Thai Cashew Chicken is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of flavors and textures transports you straight to a bustling Thai market with every bite. The recipe is adaptable, allowing you to tweak ingredients based on your preferences or what you have available in your pantry. Whether you’re a novice in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. So gather your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delightful homemade Thai feast!