This Low Carb Cashew Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic stir-fry. It features tender chicken pieces sautéed until golden and tossed with a colorful array of vegetables and crunchy cashews, all enveloped in a savory, umami-rich sauce. Perfectly balanced in flavor and texture, this dish is not only satisfying but also aligns seamlessly with low-carb dietary preferences, making it a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner rotation.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this low carb cashew chicken for its vibrant flavors and quick preparation time. The combination of juicy chicken, crunchy cashews, and crisp vegetables creates a satisfying meal that feels indulgent but won’t derail your low-carb lifestyle. Plus, the recipe is easy to follow and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. The versatility of the ingredients allows for endless customization to fit your taste buds, ensuring that you’ll want to make this dish again and again.
Tips and Tricks
To make your low carb cashew chicken even more delicious, consider marinating the chicken for an hour before cooking to enhance its flavor and tenderness. Use a mix of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas for a pop of color and nutrition. For added depth, don’t skip the garlic and ginger—they are key to achieving that authentic stir-fry flavor. If you’re short on time, precut vegetables or even frozen stir-fry mixes can be a quick substitute.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcrowding the pan; this can lead to steaming rather than sautéing, resulting in soggy chicken. Cook in batches if necessary. Additionally, be cautious with the sauce—too much can make the dish watery. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Lastly, avoid overcooking the chicken; it should be cooked through but still juicy, so keep an eye on it while it’s in the pan.
Make Ahead Tips
For meal prep enthusiasts, you can chop the vegetables and marinate the chicken a day in advance. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prep will cut down on cooking time and make it easier to whip up this dish on a busy weeknight. The marinated chicken will stay fresh for up to 24 hours, while the prepped veggies can last for 2-3 days.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe! If you’re not a fan of cashews, try using almonds, walnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free option. You can also swap out the chicken for shrimp, tofu, or seitan to cater to different dietary needs. For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mix. If you prefer a lighter version, skip the cashews and serve the dish over zoodles (zucchini noodles) instead of rice.
How to Serve
Serve your low carb cashew chicken hot from the skillet, garnished with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor. For a vibrant presentation, place the chicken on a bed of steamed cauliflower rice or alongside a fresh salad. A lime wedge on the side adds a zesty touch that complements the dish beautifully.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair this dish with a chilled glass of dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or for a non-alcoholic option, a refreshing iced green tea. If you’re looking for side dishes, consider serving it with sautéed bok choy or a simple cucumber salad. For dessert, a light berry salad or coconut milk panna cotta would provide a sweet and creamy finish to your meal.
How to Store
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, transfer the cooled cashew chicken to a freezer-safe container and it will last for about a month. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, adding a splash of water if needed to bring back the sauce’s consistency.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large skillet or wok for sautéing the chicken and vegetables. A good chef’s knife and cutting board are essential for chopping ingredients efficiently. If you have a meat thermometer, it can help ensure your chicken is cooked perfectly. However, a regular frying pan will suffice if you don’t have a wok.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh, and replace the oyster sauce with a mushroom-based sauce or soy sauce. To make it dairy-free, ensure your sauces are free from added dairy ingredients. If you need a nut-free option, simply omit the cashews or replace them with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, swap the winter vegetables for fresh, seasonal produce such as zucchini, bell peppers, and snap peas for a lighter dish. In the fall, consider adding roasted butternut squash for a sweet touch. Using seasonal ingredients not only enhances flavor but also ensures fresher produce.
Cost Breakdown
This low carb cashew chicken recipe is budget-friendly, costing approximately $3-4 per serving, depending on local prices. To save even more, consider purchasing vegetables that are in season or on sale. For a more economical protein, chicken thighs can be used instead of breasts without sacrificing flavor.
Kitchen Hacks
To peel garlic quickly, crush the clove with the flat side of a knife; the skin will fall right off. When cutting vegetables, use a sharp knife for cleaner cuts and less bruising. To save time on chopping, use pre-minced garlic and ginger available in jars. For a cleaner cooking process, line your cutting board with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely before marinating and cooking.
What can I substitute for cashews? Almonds or sunflower seeds are excellent alternatives if you’re looking for a nut-free option.
How do I store leftovers? Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for up to a month.
Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to include any of your favorites, such as carrots, bell peppers, or broccoli.
Low Carb Cashew Chicken
This Low Carb Cashew Chicken is a delightful twist on the classic stir-fry. It features tender chicken pieces sautéed until golden and tossed with a colorful array of vegetables and crunchy cashews, all enveloped in a savory, umami-rich sauce.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken breast, diced
- 1 cup raw cashews
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a soy-free version)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (or mushroom sauce for vegan)
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Green onions, for garnish
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the diced chicken with soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Allow it to marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the marinated chicken to the pan and sauté until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they are tender-crisp.
- Return the chicken to the skillet and mix in the cashews. If desired, mix cornstarch with a tiny bit of water to create a slurry and add it to the pan for thickening.
- Stir everything together until well combined and heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.8. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 4 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 510Total Fat: 29gSaturated Fat: 5gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 21gCholesterol: 96mgSodium: 1307mgCarbohydrates: 20gFiber: 4gSugar: 4gProtein: 45g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
This low carb cashew chicken recipe is a satisfying and flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a delicious meal without the carbs. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. With the tips and variations provided, you can customize it to your liking and make it your own. Enjoy your culinary adventure!
