Poulet aux Noix de Cajou

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers everything you love in a takeout-style dish but fresher and healthier. The chicken is juicy, the cashews add a satisfying crunch, and the hoisin-based sauce ties everything together with a rich, slightly sweet, and savory taste. Plus, it’s ready in just 30 minutes, making it a great choice for weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 150 g roasted, unsalted cashews

• 60 ml water

• 2 teaspoons cornstarch

• 4 tablespoons hoisin sauce

• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce

• 700 g chicken breast or tenderloins, boneless and skinless, cut into pieces

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 6 garlic cloves, minced

• 8 green onions, white and green parts separated, cut into 1 cm pieces

• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar

• ¼ teaspoon sesame oil

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Spread cashews on a baking sheet and roast for about 5 minutes. Set aside.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together water, cornstarch, hoisin sauce, and soy sauce. Set aside.

3. Place chicken pieces in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper, tossing to coat evenly.

4. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add half the chicken and sauté until lightly browned but not fully cooked, about 3 minutes. Transfer to a plate.

5. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil to the skillet, then add the rest of the chicken, garlic, and the white parts of the green onions. Cook for about 3 minutes until lightly golden.

6. Return the first batch of chicken to the skillet. Lower the heat to medium, add rice vinegar, and let it evaporate for 30 seconds.

7. Pour in the sauce mixture, stirring until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens, about 1 minute.

8. Remove from heat and stir in the green parts of the onions, roasted cashews, and sesame oil.

9. Serve immediately with rice or noodles.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 15 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Swap cashews for peanuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor.

• Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra vegetables.

• Use shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different protein.

• Spice it up with chili flakes or sriracha.

Storage/Reheating

Cashew chicken is best enjoyed fresh, as the sauce tends to lose its thick texture when stored. If you have leftovers, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water and, if necessary, a little extra cornstarch slurry to restore the sauce’s consistency. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the sauce watery.

FAQs

1. Can I make cashew chicken ahead of time?

It’s best made fresh, but you can prep the sauce and chop the ingredients in advance.

2. What if I don’t have hoisin sauce?

You can substitute with oyster sauce or soy sauce mixed with a bit of brown sugar.

3. Can I use salted cashews?

Yes, but reduce the added salt in the recipe.

4. What’s the best side dish for cashew chicken?

Steamed jasmine rice or noodles are perfect pairings.

5. How do I make the sauce spicier?

Add chili paste, fresh chili, or sriracha to the sauce mixture.

6. Can I freeze cashew chicken?

Freezing isn’t recommended because the sauce loses texture and the cashews become soggy.

7. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, thighs are juicier and add even more flavor.

8. How do I prevent the sauce from becoming watery?

Use cornstarch properly and avoid overcooking. Reheat with extra cornstarch if needed.

9. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be—just use gluten-free soy sauce and hoisin sauce.

10. Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but cook the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

Conclusion

Cashew chicken is a flavorful, quick, and satisfying dish that brings restaurant-quality taste to your table. With its balance of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and savory-sweet sauce, it’s bound to become a weeknight favorite. Serve it with rice or noodles for a complete, comforting meal.

Print