Ultimate Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Rice

When it comes to weeknight dinners, few dishes can rival the satisfying combination of tender chicken, crunchy vegetables, and a savory sauce served over fluffy rice. This Ultimate Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry with Peppers & Rice takes inspiration from classic Chinese-American takeout while putting a wholesome, homemade spin on it. With juicy chicken, sweet bell peppers, and toasted cashews tossed in a rich garlic-ginger sauce, this dish is quick, flavorful, and guaranteed to become a family favorite. Perfect for busy evenings, meal prep, or even casual entertaining, it’s a colorful and nutritious dish that brings restaurant-style flavor to your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes.
• Nutritious: Packed with lean protein, healthy fats from cashews, and plenty of vegetables.
• Crowd-Pleaser: A balanced mix of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers that reheat beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Stir-Fry:

• 1 ½ lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp oyster sauce
• 1 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (divided)
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
• 1 small onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• ¾ cup unsalted roasted cashews

For the Sauce:

• 3 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
• ½ cup chicken broth
• 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tsp water (slurry)
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

For Serving:

• 3 cups cooked jasmine or brown rice
• Sliced green onions, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Mix well and let sit for 10 minutes.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, honey, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.

Step 3: Toast the Cashews
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and toast the cashews for 2–3 minutes until fragrant. Remove and set aside.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok. Add chicken and cook for 5–6 minutes until browned and cooked through. Remove from pan.

Step 5: Stir-Fry the Vegetables
Add the remaining oil to the pan. Toss in the onion, garlic, ginger, and bell peppers. Stir-fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender.

Step 6: Combine Everything
Return the chicken to the pan. Pour in the prepared sauce and simmer for 2 minutes. Stir in the cornstarch slurry to thicken the sauce. Add toasted cashews and toss everything together until coated.

Step 7: Serve
Spoon the stir-fry over rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds.

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Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Peppers: Their sweetness and crunch balance the savory sauce.
2. Don’t Skip Toasting Cashews: Enhances flavor and crunch.
3. Adjust the Sauce: Add more honey for sweetness or more vinegar for tang.
4. Meal Prep Friendly: Divide into containers with rice for 4–5 days of ready-made meals.
5. Control Heat: Add extra red pepper flakes or fresh chili if you like it spicier.

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Variations to Try

• Vegetarian Cashew Stir-Fry: Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
• Extra Veggies: Add broccoli, zucchini, or snap peas for more nutrition.
• Low-Carb Option: Serve over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
• Asian-Inspired Twist: Add a splash of sesame oil at the end for extra depth.

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What to Serve With Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry

• Egg Drop Soup: Light and comforting, pairs well with stir-fry.
• Spring Rolls: Crisp and refreshing as a starter.
• Steamed Edamame: A simple, protein-packed side dish.
• Fruit Salad: Pineapple or mango adds a sweet finish.

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Storing and Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Microwave for 2–3 minutes or reheat in a skillet with a splash of broth to keep the sauce silky.

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Nutritional Information (per serving, serves 5)

• Calories: ~470 kcal
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 8g

(Nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on exact ingredients used.)

Why Cashew Chicken Stir-Fry is a Classic Favorite

Cashew chicken is one of those dishes that never gets old. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy roasted cashews, and vibrant bell peppers tossed in a glossy, savory sauce makes every bite satisfying. It’s a perfect balance of protein, texture, and flavor, with just the right touch of sweetness and heat — ideal for both weeknight meals and weekend indulgence.

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The Nutritional Power of Cashews and Peppers

This recipe isn’t just delicious — it’s packed with nutrients:

• Cashews provide healthy fats, magnesium, and plant-based protein, giving the dish a satisfying crunch and nutty flavor.

• Bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.

• Chicken breast or thigh adds lean, complete protein that supports energy and muscle health.

Together, they create a colorful, balanced stir-fry that’s as nourishing as it is tasty.

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Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Style Stir-Fry at Home

Want that professional, wok-tossed flavor at home? Here are some quick tips:

• Use high heat and a large skillet or wok to avoid steaming your ingredients.

• Cook the chicken separately first, then add it back at the end to keep it juicy.

• Don’t overcook the peppers — just a quick sauté to keep their texture crisp.

• Add the sauce at the very end and toss everything together just before serving.

Mastering these basics ensures a stir-fry that’s better than takeout.

Make It Your Own: Customization Ideas

This recipe is super flexible. Try these variations based on your taste or dietary needs:

• Add broccoli, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra veggies.

• Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or pescatarian twist.

• Want more heat? Add sliced red chili, chili paste, or a splash of sriracha.

• Reduce sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce or substitute with coconut aminos.

It’s a dish you can reinvent endlessly based on what’s in your fridge.

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How to Make the Perfect Stir-Fry Sauce

The sauce is what ties everything together. For a bold and balanced flavor:

• Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and a touch of honey or brown sugar.

• Add fresh garlic and ginger for depth.

• For thickening, dissolve cornstarch in water and add it to the sauce at the end.

You can also boost the umami with a splash of fish sauce or hoisin, depending on your preferences.

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Why Serve It With Rice?

The fluffy rice serves as the perfect canvas for this bold stir-fry. It absorbs all the savory sauce, balancing out the flavors and textures of the dish. For more variety, consider:

• Jasmine rice for fragrance and a soft bite

• Brown rice for added fiber and nuttiness

• Basmati rice for a drier, fluffier texture

You can also go low-carb by serving it with cauliflower rice or zoodles.

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Meal Prep & Leftover Tips

This dish is great for meal prep and stays delicious for several days. Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat:

• Use the microwave with a splash of water to prevent drying.

• Or reheat in a skillet over medium heat for better texture.

Leftovers also make an excellent filling for wraps or lettuce cups for a fun lunch twist.

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Perfect Occasions for Serving This Dish

This stir-fry works for so many occasions:

• Quick weeknight dinners

• Lunchbox meals for school or work

• Family-style dinners when you want something everyone will love

• Even as a dish to impress guests — it’s colorful, aromatic, and bursting with flavor.

Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it one of the fastest ways to get a delicious meal on the table.

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Toppings & Garnishes to Boost Flavor

Finish your stir-fry with some tasty garnishes:

• Toasted sesame seeds

• Sliced green onions

• Fresh cilantro or Thai basil

• A squeeze of lime juice for brightness

These final touches add aroma, texture, and color — and make the dish feel even more vibrant and complete.

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Low-Carb or Gluten-Free Adaptations

To adapt this dish for special diets:

• Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of regular soy sauce for a gluten-free version.

• Swap rice with cauliflower rice for a low-carb alternative.

• Omit oyster sauce or use a vegan version if avoiding shellfish.

These changes don’t compromise flavor — they just help more people enjoy this irresistible dish.

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