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Healthy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

A quick and nutritious dish combining tender chicken, colorful vegetables, and a rich peanut sauce, perfect for busy weeknights.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Asian, Healthy
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Main ingredients
  • 2 Tbsp olive oil Helps to sauté the chicken and vegetables, consider using avocado oil for a higher smoke point.
  • 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts Cut into 1-inch pieces; you can substitute with tofu for a plant-based option.
  • Salt and pepper Essential for seasoning; don't skip this to enhance flavor.
  • 2 cups broccoli florets Provides nutrients and fiber; feel free to use other colorful veggies like bell peppers or snap peas.
  • 1 red bell pepper Adds sweetness; yellow or orange peppers can be used for an extra colorful touch.
  • 1 cup sugar snap peas Offers a nice crunch; snow peas can be used as a substitute.
  • 1 Tbsp garlic (minced) Boosts flavor; fresh garlic is recommended over pre-minced for the best taste.
  • 1/3 cup unsalted cashews Provide healthy fats; roasted cashews can enhance flavor further.
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce A key ingredient in the sauce, crucial for that umami flavor.
  • 3 Tbsp all-natural peanut butter Creates a rich sauce; tahini can be a nut-free substitute.
  • 2 Tbsp honey Natural sweetener; agave syrup can be used for a vegan option.
  • 1 tsp sesame oil Adds depth of flavor; try toasted sesame oil for a more robust taste.
  • 1 Tbsp grated ginger Enhances flavor profile; fresh ginger is preferable over jarred options.
  • 2 to 3 Tbsp water Adjusts sauce consistency as needed.
Garnishing
  • green onions Adds a finishing touch; feel free to skip if not available.
  • sesame seeds Adds a finishing touch; feel free to skip if not available.

Method
 

Cooking the Chicken
  1. In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil to coat the pan. Once the pan is hot, add the chicken in an even layer. Season with salt and pepper and cook until lightly browned, about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring the chicken as needed. Once the chicken is cooked, transfer to a plate and set aside.
Sautéing the Vegetables
  1. Drizzle another tablespoon of olive oil onto the hot skillet and add the broccoli, bell pepper, and snap peas. Cook the vegetables until tender, about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Preparing the Peanut Sauce
  1. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, peanut butter, honey, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Whisk in 2 or 3 tablespoons of water, depending on the consistency you prefer, and set aside.
Combining Everything
  1. Once the veggies are tender, add the chicken back to the pan and mix together. Add in the garlic and cook for about a minute, then add in cashews and pour the peanut sauce over top. Mix well, making sure everything is coated. Bring the sauce to a boil, then turn down the heat and simmer until the sauce has thickened up and everything is incorporated.
Garnishing and Serving
  1. Sprinkle with green onions and sesame seeds, then serve your Healthy Cashew Chicken Stir Fry warm!

Notes

Cook in batches if necessary to achieve that perfect, crispy chicken and tender veggies.