Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken is a simple, delicious meal that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, and crunchy cashews. It’s perfect for busy weeknights.
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken offers a quick, convenient way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful dinner. This dish features juicy chicken, fresh vegetables, and savory cashews, all roasted together on a single sheet pan. The combination of ingredients creates a harmony of textures and tastes, satisfying both your palate and nutritional needs.
With minimal prep and cleanup, this recipe is ideal for those with a hectic schedule. The versatile nature of this dish allows for easy customization to suit personal preferences. Enjoy a balanced, delicious meal with Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken, and make dinner time stress-free and enjoyable.
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Ingredients
Use chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces. Add chopped bell peppers, broccoli florets, and snap peas. Include sliced carrots and onions for extra flavor. Toss everything with a bit of olive oil.
Mix soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and rice vinegar. Add honey for a touch of sweetness. Include minced garlic and ginger for a kick. Cornstarch helps to thicken the sauce.
Top with cashews for crunch. Add red pepper flakes for heat. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Preparation
Prepare a delicious Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken with simple ingredients in under 30 minutes. Chop veggies, marinate chicken, and roast everything together for a quick, flavorful meal. Perfect for busy weeknights!
Chopping Vegetables
Wash all the vegetables first. Carrots need to be peeled and sliced. Bell peppers should be cut into strips. Broccoli should be separated into small florets. Make sure all pieces are about the same size. This helps them cook evenly.
Marinating Chicken
Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place the chicken in a bowl. Add soy sauce, ginger, and garlic. Mix well so all pieces are covered. Let the chicken sit for at least 15 minutes. This helps the flavors soak in.
Cooking Process
Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly. It also makes the vegetables tender. Use an oven thermometer to check the temperature.
Place the chicken pieces on a sheet pan. Spread them out in a single layer. Add sliced bell peppers and broccoli florets around the chicken. Sprinkle cashews on top for a crunchy texture.
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Baking Tips
Use a large sheet pan to spread out the chicken and vegetables. This helps them cook evenly. Cut the chicken and vegetables into similar sizes. This ensures they cook at the same rate. Stir the ingredients halfway through baking. This helps to even out the cooking process.
The chicken should be golden brown and the vegetables tender. Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken. It should read 165°F. Press the vegetables with a fork. They should be soft.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken with steamed white rice. Brown rice is a healthy choice. Fried rice adds extra flavor. Use egg noodles for a twist. Rice noodles are great for gluten-free options. Zoodles (zucchini noodles) are perfect for low-carb diets.
Top with chopped green onions for a fresh taste. Sesame seeds add crunch. Cilantro gives a burst of flavor. Lime wedges add a citrusy zing. Crushed red pepper for a spicy kick. Chopped peanuts for extra texture. Fresh basil leaves for a unique taste.
Health Benefits
Cashew chicken is a nutrient-rich meal. Chicken provides high-quality protein which is essential for muscle growth. Cashews are a good source of healthy fats and vitamins such as vitamin E and K. Bell peppers add vitamin C and fiber. Broccoli offers calcium and iron. This dish is a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbs.
Sheet pan cashew chicken is a low-calorie meal. Baking instead of frying reduces oil usage. This method keeps the dish light and healthy. Using lean chicken breast and plenty of vegetables reduces calorie intake. It’s a great option for those watching their weight. This dish is also satisfying and filling.
Variations
Add a kick to your cashew chicken with some simple changes. Use red chili flakes or sliced jalapeños for extra heat. Sriracha sauce can also be mixed in for a spicy twist. Hot sauce lovers can drizzle their favorite brand over the cooked chicken.
Adjust the spice level to suit your taste. Even a small amount can make a big difference. Spicy cashew chicken pairs well with cooling sides like cucumber salad or plain yogurt. Enjoy the spicy flavors with every bite!
Replace chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian option. Both absorb flavors well and cook quickly on a sheet pan. Chickpeas are another great substitute. Toss them in the same sauce for a tasty meal.
Add more vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas. They offer extra nutrition and taste. Cashews provide the crunch, so keep them in the mix. This vegetarian version is perfect for Meatless Mondays or any day!
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Storage And Reheating
Store the cashew chicken in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, use the freezer. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
To reheat, use the microwave. Place the chicken on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating. For better results, use an oven. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place the chicken on a baking sheet. Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do You Make Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken?
Preheat oven, toss chicken and veggies with sauce, bake, add cashews, and bake until crispy. Serve hot.
What Ingredients Are In Cashew Chicken?
Chicken, cashews, bell peppers, broccoli, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and honey are common ingredients in cashew chicken.
Can You Use Any Vegetables?
Yes, you can use any vegetables you like. Common choices are bell peppers, broccoli, and snap peas.
Is Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Healthy?
Yes, it is generally healthy. It contains lean protein, vegetables, and healthy fats from cashews.
How Long To Bake Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken?
Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
Conclusion
Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken. It’s perfect for busy weeknights. This easy recipe delivers delicious results every time. With minimal cleanup, it’s a win for any home cook. Try it out and bring a taste of takeout to your kitchen.
Your family will love it!
