Print

Chicken Stir-Fry with Cashews and Vegetables Recipe

4.8 from 56 reviews

This vibrant Chicken Stir-Fry is a quick and delicious meal featuring tender chicken breast, crisp broccoli, and sweet bell peppers tossed in a savory-sweet sauce made from reduced-sodium soy sauce, honey, and toasted sesame oil. Enhanced with crunchy cashews and aromatic garlic, this stir-fry is a perfect weekday dinner that balances protein and vegetables in a delightful Asian-inspired dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Sauce

  • 1/2 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons honey
  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

Main Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1 head broccoli, cut into small florets
  • 1 bell pepper, seeds and ribs removed, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 1/3 cup raw cashews
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the reduced-sodium soy sauce, honey, and toasted sesame oil until well combined to create a balanced savory-sweet sauce.
  2. Cook the vegetables: Heat canola oil in a large skillet over high heat. Add the broccoli florets, chopped bell pepper, and finely chopped garlic, stirring frequently. Cook until the vegetables soften, approximately 5 minutes, ensuring they remain slightly crisp.
  3. Add the chicken: Incorporate the chicken pieces into the skillet and cook, tossing occasionally, until they are golden brown and fully cooked through, about 8 minutes. This step ensures the chicken is tender and develops a nice sear.
  4. Stir in cashews and season: Mix the raw cashews into the skillet and season with freshly ground black pepper according to your taste for an added crunch and subtle spice.
  5. Simmer with sauce: Pour the prepared sauce over the contents of the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly, about 5 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully with the chicken and vegetables.

Notes

  • You can substitute chicken breast with thigh meat for a juicier texture.
  • For a spicier kick, add red pepper flakes or freshly chopped chili when cooking the vegetables.
  • Serve over steamed rice or noodles to make it a complete meal.
  • Vegetarian option: Replace chicken with firm tofu and increase cooking time for a golden crust.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Keywords: chicken stir-fry, quick chicken dinner, Asian chicken recipe, healthy stir-fry, chicken and vegetables, easy weeknight meal