Simple Cashew Chicken Stir Fry With Fresh Vegetables Recipe

If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with vibrant colors, fresh textures, and a savory crunch, you’re in for a real treat with this Simple Cashew Chicken Stir Fry With Fresh Vegetables Recipe. It’s one of those meals that feels like a warm hug after a busy day—easy to make, yet packed with bold flavors thanks to tender chicken, crisp veggies, and buttery cashews all tossed in a luscious sauce. Whether you’re feeding family or just want a satisfying solo dinner, this recipe delivers both nutrition and comfort in every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish really comes together because of its simple yet essential ingredients. Each item plays a crucial role in balancing texture, color, and flavor, making your stir fry irresistibly delicious and visually appealing.

• 500 grams Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces to ensure quick and even cooking throughout.
• 100 grams Cashews: Raw or roasted, they add a wonderful crunchy texture and subtle nuttiness.
• 1 Red Bell Pepper: Sliced into thin strips, it brightens the dish with a sweet and crisp pop of color.
• 1 Yellow Bell Pepper: Also sliced thinly, it pairs perfectly to complement the red pepper’s flavor and appearance.
• 1 cup Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli adds a satisfying crunch and vibrant green that’s packed with nutrition.
• 2 Medium Carrots: Julienned or sliced thinly to add a gentle sweetness and lovely texture to the mix.
• 4 cloves Garlic: Minced to infuse the stir fry with aromatic depth and savory warmth.
• 1 tablespoon Fresh Ginger: Grated for a fresh, zesty kick that brightens the entire dish.
• 3 tablespoons Low-Sodium Soy Sauce: Besides seasoning, it adds a perfect balance of saltiness without overpowering the freshness.
• 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil: A little goes a long way in delivering that classic nutty aroma and taste.
• 2 tablespoons Vegetable Oil: Essential for stir-frying, it helps everything cook evenly without sticking.
• 3 Green Onions: Chopped for garnish to provide a sharp, fresh finish that’s as pretty as it is tasty.

How to Make Simple Cashew Chicken Stir Fry With Fresh Vegetables Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering everything you need and chopping, slicing, and mincing as described. Preparing all your ingredients beforehand makes the cooking process smooth and stress-free.

Step 2: Heat Up the Pan

Place a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. This oil is the perfect base to cook your chicken without burning or sticking, allowing for even browning.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Add the chicken pieces in a single layer and sear them for 2-3 minutes without moving them too much. This helps develop a nice golden crust, locking in the juicy flavor.

Step 4: Finish Cooking the Chicken

Stir the chicken occasionally, letting it cook through evenly for about 5-7 minutes. You want each piece tender and cooked but still moist.

Step 5: Add Garlic and Ginger

Push the chicken to one side of the pan, then toss the minced garlic and freshly grated ginger into the empty space. Sauté for just 30 seconds until fragrant to infuse the dish with bold, warming notes.

Step 6: Toss in the Fresh Vegetables

Add your colorful bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli to the skillet. Stir everything together and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften slightly but still hold a crisp bite.

Step 7: Pour in the Sauce

Mix the soy sauce and sesame oil in a small bowl, then pour over the stir fry. This simple sauce perfectly ties together the savory and nutty flavors, enhancing every element.

Step 8: Add Cashews

Sprinkle the cashews into the pan and cook everything for another 2 minutes. The cashews warm through and mingle their buttery crunch with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 9: Finish with Green Onions

Finally, sprinkle the chopped green onions over the stir fry. Give everything a quick stir to combine all flavors and remove from heat to keep the fresh aroma intact.

Step 10: Serve It Up

Serve your Simple Cashew Chicken Stir Fry With Fresh Vegetables Recipe hot over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

How to Serve Simple Cashew Chicken Stir Fry With Fresh Vegetables Recipe

Garnishes

To elevate the dish visually and flavor-wise, add extra chopped green onions or sprinkle some toasted sesame seeds on top. A squeeze of fresh lime juice can also brighten the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair this stir fry with fluffy jasmine rice or delicate noodles to soak up the tasty sauce. For a lighter touch, a simple cucumber salad or steamed edamame beans complement the meal wonderfully without overpowering it.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the stir fry in individual mini bowls or on vibrant plates that highlight the colors of the bell peppers and broccoli. You could also transform it into delicious lettuce wraps for a fun, hands-on experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After your meal, place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This keeps the chicken tender and the vegetables crisp, so you can enjoy it all over again.

Freezing

You can freeze the stir fry by portioning it into freezer-safe containers. For best texture, consume within one month and avoid freezing the rice or noodles separately to maintain freshness.

Reheating

Reheat your leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or use a microwave, stirring occasionally so everything warms evenly without drying out. Adding a splash of water or soy sauce can help revive the sauce.

FAQs

Can I use other nuts instead of cashews?

Absolutely! Almonds or peanuts can be delicious substitutes, though cashews provide a uniquely creamy crunch that pairs nicely with the chicken and vegetables.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable-based sauces and oils. This keeps the dish just as flavorful and satisfying.

What’s the best way to keep the vegetables crisp?

Cook the vegetables quickly over high heat and avoid over-stirring. This method preserves their crunch and vibrant color, which is essential for a great stir fry.

Can I prepare some parts of the recipe ahead of time?

Definitely! Chop all the veggies and slice the chicken beforehand to streamline the cooking. Just keep everything refrigerated and cook within a day for maximum freshness.

What type of rice pairs best with this stir fry?

Jasmine or basmati rice are excellent choices. Their fragrant, fluffy textures contrast beautifully with the sauces and textures in the stir fry.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly comforting about the Simple Cashew Chicken Stir Fry With Fresh Vegetables Recipe that makes it a reliable favorite week after week. It’s quick to prepare, wholesome, and packed with vibrant tastes and textures that never get old. I encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy the warm flavors and colorful presentation that will brighten up any mealtime!

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