How to Cook Thai-Style Chicken with Cashew Nuts
Thai-style chicken with cashew nuts is a delectable dish that combines the rich flavors of Thai cuisine with tender chicken and nutty cashews. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Thai-style chicken with cashew nuts that will impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 500g chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 cup roasted cashew nuts
- 1 cup bell peppers (red, green, and yellow), sliced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 teaspoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a bowl, combine the chicken pieces with 1 tablespoon of soy sauce. Let them marinate for 15-20 minutes to enhance the flavor. This step is essential for ensuring the chicken is tender and juicy.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the remaining soy sauce, oyster sauce, fish sauce, sugar, and cornstarch mixture. This will be the base for your stir-fry sauce, providing that unique Thai flavor.
Step 3: Stir-Fry the Chicken
Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large frying pan or wok over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
Step 4: Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add minced garlic and sliced onion, sautéing for about a minute until fragrant. Then, add the bell peppers and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until they are slightly tender but still crisp.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Return the cooked chicken to the pan and add the sauce. Stir well to coat all the ingredients evenly with the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Finally, add the roasted cashew nuts and stir to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Once everything is properly mixed and heated through, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the Thai-style chicken with cashew nuts hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic finish. Enjoy it with steamed jasmine rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tips for the Perfect Thai-Style Chicken with Cashew Nuts
- For an extra crunch, add some water chestnuts or snow peas.
- You can substitute chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Adjust the spice level by adding fresh chili or chili paste if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Make sure to not overcook the vegetables to maintain their vibrant color and crispness.
This Thai-style chicken with cashew nuts recipe is truly versatile and can be customized to fit your taste preferences. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner, this easy recipe will transport your taste buds to Thailand in just a matter of minutes!