Cashew Chicken

I think computers hate me. It’s been a long week with nothing but technical problems. First, my crappy work laptop decided to start acting up and I had to get a loaner. Earlier this week I was pulling my hair out trying to run my analyses for my dissertation because I couldn’t get my models to run. Finally I figured it out, got them to run and then realized that the version of the software I had is really old and it didn’t give me all of the information I needed. UGHHHHH!! So, ok, I can just run them on a computer that has the new version and I will get what I want, right? WRONG! I worked all yesterday on a different computer with the new version and the models won’t run. WAHHHHHHHH!! Someone, please, pass me a drink!!

All of these issues have not really made me want to get in the kitchen and cook a big meal. I’m all about quick meals right now. I’m also all about trying to make my own Chinese take-out meals. This cashew chicken recipe might be my new favorite. Seriously, we had it two days in a row. That’s pretty serious stuff, people.

I made some rice on the side, but really, I didn’t really want the rice. The chicken and veggies on their own are all you need which makes this a great dish to make for all you low-carbers. And for all your vegetarians, omit the chicken and use tofu or just load up on more veggies! The sauce is perfect, just a touch of sweetness from the honey with a little kick from the Sriracha. This one is definitely a keeper!

Cashew Chicken

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 (6-ounce) skinless, boneless chicken breast halves, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbs. cornstarch
  • 1/2 tsp. salt
  • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
  • 1 tbs. canola oil
  • 1 tbs. sesame oil
  • 2 cups broccoli florets, rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen shelled edamame (or regular green peas)
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1/2 cup dry-roasted cashews, unsalted
  • 1 tbs. rice vinegar
  • 3 tbs. honey
  • 2 tbs. low-sodium soy sauce
  • 1 tbs. Sriracha

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken, cornstarch, salt and pepper. Toss until the chicken is well-coated.
  2. Heat a large skillet on medium heat. Add the canola oil and the sesame oil. Add the chicken and cook for approximately 5 minutes or until the chicken turns a light golden brown.
  3. Add the broccoli, red pepper, onion, and edamame (or peas) to the chicken and cook until crisp-tender and the chicken is cooked thoroughly.
  4. While the veggies and chicken are cooking, combine the rice vinegar, honey, soy sauce, garlic, and Sriracha in a bowl. Whisk together until well-combined. Pour the mixture on the chicken and veggies and toss to coat.

Notes

From Cooking Light

http://eat-drink-love.com/2012/05/cashew-chicken/

Comments

  1. 1
    Eftychia says:

    Yummy recipe and so easy to make! Thanks for sharing.
    Eftychia recently posted..Barbie’s Handbag Birthday CakeMy Profile

  2. 2

    Sorry about your crummy week. I had a tough week too and I was just about ready to kill someone but you know what’s getting me through the week? The fact that it’s Friday tomorrow. We’re so close! But until then, I pass you a virtual drink. Cheers to this shit week and the fact that it’ll all be over in less than 24 hrs :)

    As for this dish, I love it! Making homemade chinese takeout dishes are the best. I’ve made a lot of chinese dishes but cashew chicken has yet to be made. It’s next on my list!
    Chung-Ah | Damn Delicious recently posted..Chocolate Brownie Cookies with White Chocolate Chips and Roasted Macadamia NutsMy Profile

  3. 3
    Susie says:

    Sorry about the computer issues…. it makes everyone crazy and there is never a simple solution. This dish looks great and I bet it would stand a lone well without the rice.
    Susie recently posted..Banana BreadMy Profile

  4. 4
    Baker Street says:

    ugh. sorry to hear about the computer issues. Your dish on the other hand looks lovely. cashews and chicken have been wonderfully paired. :)
    Baker Street recently posted..Cookies and Cream Pound CakeMy Profile

  5. 5

    Computers may be awesome but when they stuff up – grrrr moments!
    However, on a happier note, this chicken dish looks awesome and I bet the flavour combo is perfect!

    Cheers
    Choc Chip Uru
    Choc Chip Uru recently posted..Third Time Lucky For Mother’s Day 2012My Profile

  6. 6

    Yes technology moves to fast for me! I guess that is why I have yet to shell out for a web designer, with my luck after I did it within a week I would see some new feature or thing that I wanted.
    Anyhow your dish looks very healthy and vibrant. I think this was the first dish I really had as an entree with cashews in it. Ever since then any savory stir fry with nuts or sesame has always been enjoyed. Between the ease of this recipe and the final results-this one looks like a winner. Have a great weekend!
    Tina@flourtrader recently posted..Raspberry Tea and Chambord BrowniesMy Profile

  7. 7

    Darn computers! Hope things are going better. Bet that “homemade takeout” helped. Great recipe! Bookmarked indeed!

  8. 8

    Ugh, technology. I feel ya. I had the same problem with my research paper this week. The footnote option just didn’t want to cooperate. I love quick meals, considering I haven’t had any time to get in the kitchen and spend hours cooking. This dish looks delicious. Good luck, girlie.

  9. 9

    This looks so delicious, Stephanie! I love all the simple, easy to find ingredients you used too. Saving this to try soon!

  10. 10
    Ramona says:

    I love making my own take out because it’s cheaper and so much more healthy for you. This looks great!! I hope your computer woes stop… I have had some those too recently. Hope you have a wonderful weekend! ~ Ramona
    Ramona recently posted..Bacon Cheeseburger Sloppy JoeMy Profile

  11. 11

    Your dish looks so great and versatile so I had to pin it … Happy Weekend :-)
    CJ at Food Stories recently posted..No Fuss Cheese SouffleMy Profile

  12. 12

    UGH!! Computer issues are the WORST!! But this cashew chicken looks incredible!! I always save the cashews for last ;)
    Steph@stephsbitebybite recently posted..Artichoke Stuffed ShellsMy Profile

  13. 13

    Yum! Love an easy and flavorful stir fry!
    I hate computers. I am lucky my husband is a techy guy!

  14. 14

    Sorry to read about all those computer glitches…major bummer! I hope things workout easier for you. Looks like you nailed Chinese take-out, the healthy way. This dish looks delicious and satisfying all around. Have a super weekend :)
    Emily Lynne {The Best of this Life} recently posted..Pomegranate Basil Sparkling CocktailMy Profile

  15. 15
    Ann says:

    If this is what computer problems look like….sign me up! YUM! Seriously – I hope everything smooths out, but YUM!
    Ann recently posted..Sometimes you just know…..My Profile

  16. 16

    I feel you pain. I think my work computer hates me. Chinese food would make me feel better too though! :)
    Laura @ Sprint 2 the Table recently posted..Five is for FridayMy Profile

  17. 17

    A quick to make and delicious chicken dish.

  18. 18

    I have nominated you for the One lovely blog award! Stop by my blog to see the badge and the rules :) Have a good day!
    CJ at Food Stories recently posted..Devils Food Cake Day, NEW Food Story Photo & Blog Love, Part 3My Profile

  19. 19

    Hi my friend, I have nominated you for two well deserved awards :D
    Congrats!!!
    Check out this link to see and claim them: http://gobakeyourself.wordpress.com/2012/05/20/rich-berry-cherry-chocolate-cheesecake-a-guest-post/

    Cheers
    Choc Chip Uru

  20. 20
    Grace says:

    Wow, you’re making me hungry, this totally reminds me of Panda Express!!!!
    Grace recently posted..Cake PopsMy Profile

  21. 21
    Sara says:

    This looks really delicious and it’s a pretty healthy dish to whip out rather than choosing takeouts. Thanks for sharing the recipe! :)
    Sara recently posted..The Benefits And The Power Of Vitamin CMy Profile

  22. 22
    Liz says:

    Ugh, I feel your pain. I’m having a few issues myself…it is SO aggravating! But a quick yummy dinner like your cashew chicken could change my mood! YUMMY!
    Liz recently posted..Strawberry Shortcake…#SundaySupper with Cristina Ferrare @cristinacooksMy Profile

  23. 23
    Cassie says:

    Oh no! I hope this week goes better than last. Computer issues are never fun. Hopefully the cashew chicken cured the tech blues. I love cashew chicken!

  24. 24

    Sorry about the tech problems. They can be killer. I hope things look up this week. You are right about the meal. It is never the rice you want. Looks fabulous!
    Emily @ Life on Food recently posted..Weekend Edition: Put Your Rump On A StumpMy Profile

  25. 25

    Ugh. There is nothing more frustrating than broken technology! Hope this upcoming week is a better one :) I am all about simple dinners these days, and this one is perfect!
    Baking Serendipity recently posted..365: Week TwentyMy Profile

  26. 26
    Carol says:

    oh my! I have this feeling right now to rip the monitor and eat that recipe. so yummy!

  27. 27

    Stephanie … You have been nominated for my NEW Food Stories Award for Excellence in Storytelling. Check out my site for the details (foodstoriesblog dot com).
    CJ at Food Stories recently posted..Food Stories Award for Excellence in StorytellingMy Profile

  28. 28
    Gourmantine says:

    If it’s any consolation, I think your computer karma is not as bad as mine… You see, in the last 4 years I’ve managed to break or break down 3 personal laptops and 2 at work… I must say, comfort food is always a good cheer up :) Lovely dish!
    Gourmantine recently posted..Apple cheeseMy Profile

  29. 29
    Janet@FCTC says:

    Awwww, sorry you had a bad week technologically, Steph.

    My husband would absolutely LOVE this dish. He loves Asian food (as do I) and adores anything with cashews( i don’t share that love unfortunately so I’d make this and give him my cashews) . This looks wonderful!
    Janet@FCTC recently posted..I’d Like To Teach The World To SingMy Profile

  30. 30
    Katerina says:

    I’ve been there several times and I know how difficult and frustrating it can be. I am sure this chicken rewarded you for the trouble you went through! Looks so delicious!
    Katerina recently posted..Baby Spinach Salad with Roasted Asparagus and MushroomsMy Profile

  31. 31
    Kim Bee says:

    I hate weeks like that. Some days just stink, no other way to put it.

    This dish sure would be a great mood changer. It’s gorgeous.
    Kim Bee recently posted..New Series- Give a Girl a Grill: Grilled AsparagusMy Profile

  32. 32

    This cashew chicken looks wonderful! I love easy dinner like this that has meat, some veggies, and rice. Totally great weeknight dinner we can make! I’m having some computer issues while I type too… router is having some issues and I don’t know how to fix it. Grr…. I wish I’m not technologically challenged.. :/
    Nami | Just One Cookbook recently posted..Grilled Lemongrass ChickenMy Profile

  33. 33
    Alyssa says:

    I love homemade versions of great take out! I don’t feel bad about having seconds or thirds if I know that it’s not overloaded with grease/salt. Great recipe!
    Alyssa recently posted..Glitzy Angry Birds Birthday CakeMy Profile

  34. 34

    I was going through my Cooking Light mag last night and decided to make it for dinner. I used gluten-free soy sauce instead… It was delicious!!
    Cecilia @ My Life Sans Gluten recently posted..Hello there!My Profile

  35. 36

    Technology is the WORST, isn’t it? It’s always flubbing up when you need it to work!

    Your dish looks amazing!
    claire @ the realistic nutritionist recently posted..Eat Skinny: Tofu Scramble Recipe with Kraft SinglesMy Profile

  36. 37
    Cindy says:

    I’m confused, how does 6 ounces of uncooked chicken breast possibly yield 4 servings? 90% of your serving would be vegetables with about 2 tiny pieces of chicken in it. 6 ounces would yieled about 4 ounces cooked, which is basically 1 serving of chicken. Am I missing something here? I would think for 4 servings, you should be using 1 pound of uncooked chicken breast.

    • 38
      Stephanie says:

      Hi Cindy. It’s actually 2 6-ounce chicken breasts. I apologize if this was confusing. I updated the ingredient list so it is hopefully more clear now.

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