Embrace the vibrant flavors and simplicity of this sheet pan cashew chicken recipe. This dish combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, fresh vegetables, and a flavorful homemade sauce, all baked together on a single sheet pan. It's an easy and healthy meal that's perfect for busy weeknights.
This recipe utilizes a few ingredients that may not typically be found in every kitchen. Hoisin sauce, often used in Asian cuisine, adds a sweet and tangy dimension to the dish. It can be found in the international aisle of most supermarkets. Similarly, toasted sesame oil delivers a unique, nutty flavor that regular sesame oil cannot. Lastly, roasted unsalted cashews are used in this recipe, but raw cashews can also be used if you prefer.
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Soy sauce: Used as the base for the sauce, it gives the dish its salty, umami flavor.
Hoisin sauce: A sweet and spicy sauce that adds depth to the dish.
Apple cider vinegar: Gives the sauce a tangy kick.
Honey: Balances the flavors with a touch of sweetness.
Toasted sesame oil: Adds a rich, nutty flavor.
Ginger: Provides a spicy, aromatic quality.
Garlic: Adds a robust, savory taste.
Cornstarch: Helps thicken the sauce.
Chicken thighs: Tender and juicy, perfect for baking.
Broccoli florets: Adds a healthy crunch and vibrant color.
Bell peppers: Provides sweetness and a pop of color.
Roasted unsalted cashews: Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
Sesame seeds: Used for garnish, they add a slight crunch.
Green onions: Gives a fresh, sharp finish to the dish.
One reader, Hildegarde Schofield says:
This sheet pan cashew chicken recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are incredible, and the dish is so easy to make. The sauce is the star of the show, and the combination of chicken, veggies, and cashews is simply delicious. It's become a regular in my dinner rotation!
Key Techniques for Delicious Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
How to prepare the sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together soy sauce, hoisin sauce, vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch, and water until combined. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and bubbles. Remove from heat and set aside.
How to season the chicken and vegetables: Season the chicken with salt and black pepper, then drizzle spoonfuls of the prepared sauce over the chicken, coating it well on both sides. Reserve at least half of the sauce for later. Arrange the broccoli florets, bell peppers, and cashews in a single layer around the chicken. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper and drizzle spoonfuls of the sauce over them, tossing everything to coat.
How to cook the sheet pan cashew chicken: Cook in a preheated oven at 400°F for 8 minutes, then remove the pan. After removing the pan, arrange the broccoli florets, bell peppers, and cashews in a single layer around the chicken. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper and drizzle spoonfuls of the sauce over them, tossing everything to coat. Return the pan to the oven and cook for another 8-12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
How to serve the sheet pan cashew chicken: Remove the pan from the oven and drizzle with the remaining sauce. Serve over rice or quinoa and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
How To Make Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Skip the takeout and whip up your own luscious and juicy cashew chicken at home! It’s served with a rich hoisin sauce and tender veggies for a fuller meal.
Serves:
Ingredients
For Sauce:
- 6tbspsoy sauce,low sodium
- 1tbsphoisin sauce
- ¾tbspapple cider vinegar
- 2tbsphoney
- 1tsptoasted sesame oil
- ½tspfresh ginger,minced
- 2garlic cloves,minced
- 2tbspcornstarch
- ½cupwater,plus more as needed to thin out sauce
For Chicken and Vegetables:
- 2medium chicken thighs,or breasts, skinless boneless, cut into 1-inch cubes
- salt and black pepper,to taste
- 1½cupbroccoli florets
- 1red bell pepper,cut into chunks
- ½green bell pepper,cut into chunks
- ⅔cupunsalted cashews,roasted
- sesame seeds,toasted, optional garnish
- green onions,chopped, optional garnish
Instructions
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In a medium saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, vinegar, honey, sesame oil, garlic, ginger, cornstarch and water until combined. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, until sauce thickens and bubbles.
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Remove from heat and set aside.
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Preheat oven to 400 degrees Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil coated with cooking spray and set aside.
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Season chicken with salt and black pepper, then drizzle spoonfuls of sauce over the chicken coating well on both sides. Reserve at least half of the sauce for later.
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Cook in preheated oven for 8 minutes, then remove the pan.
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Arrange the broccoli florets, bell peppers and cashews in a single layer around the chicken. Season the vegetables with salt and pepper and drizzle spoonfuls of the sauce and toss everything to coat.
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Return to the oven and cook for another 8 to 12 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and juices run clear.
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Remove pan from oven and drizzle with remaining sauce.
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Serve over rice or quinoa and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 445.55kcal
- Fat: 27.90g
- Saturated Fat: 6.43g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.77g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.86g
- Carbohydrates: 27.48g
- Fiber: 2.24g
- Sugar: 12.82g
- Protein: 23.72g
- Cholesterol: 94.69mg
- Sodium: 1475.25mg
- Calcium: 49.02mg
- Potassium: 660.14mg
- Iron: 3.19mg
- Vitamin A: 111.67µg
- Vitamin C: 75.16mg
Crucial Technique for Perfect Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
When preparing the chicken for this recipe, it's important to ensure that it's coated well with the sauce. This not only infuses the meat with flavor, but also helps to keep it moist during the cooking process. To achieve this, you can place the chicken in a bowl, pour the sauce over it, and then use your hands or a brush to spread the sauce evenly over each piece. Remember to reserve some sauce for the vegetables and for drizzling over the finished dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Recipe
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and marinate the chicken the night before to save time on the day of cooking.
One-pan meals: Look for recipes that allow you to cook everything on a single sheet pan to minimize cleanup and save time.
Batch cooking: Make a larger portion of the recipe and store the extra servings for quick and convenient meals throughout the week.
Use pre-cut ingredients: Opt for pre-cut vegetables and pre-roasted cashews to cut down on prep time.
Follow the recipe: Read through the entire recipe before starting to ensure you have all the ingredients and understand the steps, preventing any last-minute delays.
Efficient multitasking: While the chicken is cooking, use that time to prepare the sauce and chop the vegetables to maximize efficiency in the kitchen.
Substitute Ingredients For Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Recipe
low sodium soy sauce - Substitute with coconut aminos: Coconut aminos is a soy-free alternative made from coconut sap, and it has a similar umami flavor to soy sauce. It's a great option for those with soy allergies or for a lower-sodium alternative.
hoisin sauce - Substitute with plum sauce: Plum sauce has a similar sweet and tangy flavor to hoisin sauce, making it a suitable substitute in this recipe.
apple cider vinegar - Substitute with rice vinegar: Rice vinegar has a mild, slightly sweet flavor that can replace the acidity of apple cider vinegar in this recipe.
honey - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can provide a similar sweetness and depth of flavor as honey in the sauce.
toasted sesame oil - Substitute with peanut oil: Peanut oil has a nutty flavor that can mimic the toasty notes of sesame oil in the dish.
fresh minced ginger - Substitute with ground ginger: Ground ginger can be used as a substitute for fresh minced ginger, providing a similar flavor and aroma to the dish.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a convenient substitute for fresh garlic, adding a similar garlic flavor to the dish.
cornstarch - Substitute with arrowroot powder: Arrowroot powder can be used as a thickening agent similar to cornstarch in the sauce.
chicken thighs - Substitute with tofu cubes: Tofu cubes can be used as a plant-based alternative to chicken thighs, providing a protein-rich option for the dish.
broccoli florets - Substitute with cauliflower florets: Cauliflower florets can be used as a substitute for broccoli, offering a similar texture and ability to absorb the flavors of the dish.
red bell pepper - Substitute with yellow bell pepper: Yellow bell pepper can be used as a substitute for red bell pepper, adding a pop of color and sweet flavor to the dish.
green bell pepper - Substitute with orange bell pepper: Orange bell pepper can be used as a substitute for green bell pepper, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the dish.
roasted unsalted cashews - Substitute with almonds: Almonds can be used as a substitute for cashews, providing a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the dish.
toasted sesame seeds - Substitute with chopped peanuts: Chopped peanuts can be used as a substitute for toasted sesame seeds, adding a nutty crunch to the dish.
chopped green onions - Substitute with chives: Chives can be used as a substitute for green onions, providing a mild onion flavor and a pop of green color to the dish.
Presentation Tips for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Elevate the plating: Carefully arrange the chicken, vegetables, and cashews on the plate, ensuring each component is visible and appealing.
Garnish with toasted sesame seeds: Sprinkle a generous amount of toasted sesame seeds over the dish to add a nutty flavor and a visually appealing touch.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Utilize the red and green bell peppers to add pops of color to the dish, creating an aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Create a balanced composition: Ensure that the chicken, vegetables, and cashews are proportionally distributed on the plate, creating a visually balanced and harmonious presentation.
Use a minimalist approach: Embrace simplicity in plating, allowing the natural colors and textures of the dish to shine through without overwhelming the presentation.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cashew Chicken
Medium saucepan: A medium-sized saucepan is ideal for making sauces, heating liquids, and simmering ingredients. It usually has a capacity of around 2 to 3 quarts.
Whisk: A whisk is used for blending and mixing ingredients, especially for sauces and dressings. It helps to ensure a smooth and consistent texture.
Sheet pan: A sheet pan, also known as a baking sheet, is a flat, rectangular metal pan with raised edges. It is commonly used for baking, roasting, and broiling.
Parchment paper or foil: Parchment paper or aluminum foil is used to line the sheet pan, preventing the food from sticking and making cleanup easier.
Cooking spray: Cooking spray is used to coat the parchment paper or foil to prevent the food from sticking to the pan.
Oven: The oven is used for baking and roasting the chicken and vegetables.
Knife: A sharp knife is essential for cutting and preparing the chicken, vegetables, and garnishes.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Measuring spoons are used to accurately measure and add small amounts of ingredients, such as spices and sauces.
Measuring cups: Measuring cups are used to accurately measure and add larger amounts of liquid and dry ingredients.
Spatula or tongs: A spatula or tongs are used for flipping and handling the chicken and vegetables while cooking.
Saucepan: A saucepan is used for preparing the sauce, heating liquids, and simmering ingredients.
Storing and Freezing Tips for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Let the sheet pan cashew chicken cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. This will prevent the dish from becoming soggy and help maintain its texture.
Store the leftover cashew chicken in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to keep it in a sealed container to prevent any odors from seeping in and affecting the flavor.
If you want to freeze the cashew chicken, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing to prevent freezer burn.
When freezing, it's best to store the chicken, vegetables, and sauce separately. This will allow you to reheat each component to its optimal texture and consistency.
The frozen cashew chicken can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Make sure to label the container or bag with the date of freezing so you can keep track of its freshness.
To reheat the frozen cashew chicken, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, reheat the chicken and vegetables in a skillet or the microwave until heated through. Warm up the sauce separately and drizzle it over the dish before serving.
If you find that the reheated cashew chicken has lost some of its crispness, you can quickly stir-fry it in a hot skillet with a little oil to restore its texture.
How To Reheat Leftover Cashew Chicken
To reheat leftover sheet pan cashew chicken, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the chicken and vegetables to a baking dish, cover it with foil, and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This method helps retain the moisture and prevents the chicken from drying out.
For a quicker option, you can use the microwave. Place the leftover cashew chicken in a microwave-safe dish and cover it with a damp paper towel. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat, as the chicken may become rubbery.
If you want to add a crispy texture to your reheated cashew chicken, you can use an air fryer. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the chicken and vegetables in the basket. Cook for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the dish is heated through and slightly crispy.
For a stovetop method, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Add the leftover sheet pan cashew chicken to the skillet and stir-fry for 3-5 minutes or until heated through. You can also add a splash of water or chicken broth to help steam the dish and prevent it from drying out.
If you find that the sauce has thickened too much during storage, you can thin it out by adding a little water, chicken broth, or soy sauce while reheating. This will help restore the original consistency of the sauce and keep the dish flavorful.
Interesting Fact About Cashew Chicken
The sheet pan cashew chicken recipe is a delicious and convenient way to prepare a flavorful meal. This recipe combines the savory flavors of soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and toasted sesame oil with the crunch of cashews and the freshness of broccoli and bell peppers. The dish is a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and nutty flavors, making it a crowd-pleaser. Plus, the use of a sheet pan makes for easy cleanup and minimal effort. With its combination of protein, vegetables, and nuts, this recipe offers a well-rounded and satisfying meal. Try it for a simple and tasty dinner option!
Is This Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Recipe Budget-Friendly?
The cost-effectiveness of this sheet pan cashew chicken recipe is quite high. The use of affordable ingredients like chicken thighs, broccoli, and bell peppers makes it a budget-friendly option for a household. The recipe also utilizes simple pantry staples like soy sauce, honey, and cornstarch, which are cost-effective. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $15-$20, making it an economical choice. The dish offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, earning a solid 8/10 rating for its affordability and taste.
Is This Cashew Chicken Recipe Healthy?
This sheet pan cashew chicken recipe has both healthy and unhealthy aspects. Let's break it down:
Healthy elements:
- The recipe includes nutrient-rich vegetables like broccoli and bell peppers, which provide vitamins, minerals, and fiber
- Chicken thighs are a good source of protein
- The sauce uses low-sodium soy sauce, which helps reduce the overall sodium content
- Honey is used as a natural sweetener instead of refined sugar
- Ginger and garlic offer potential health benefits and add flavor without extra calories
Unhealthy aspects:
- The recipe calls for cornstarch as a thickener, which is a refined carbohydrate
- Hoisin sauce and soy sauce, even low-sodium versions, can still contribute to a higher sodium content
- The use of cooking spray and sesame oil adds extra fat to the dish
- Cashews, while nutritious, are high in calories and fat
To make this recipe healthier, I would suggest the following modifications:
- Replace the cornstarch with a whole-grain alternative like arrowroot powder or whole-wheat flour to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
- Reduce the amount of honey to lower the overall sugar content
- Use a sodium-free or reduced-sodium soy sauce to further decrease the sodium levels
- Opt for a smaller portion of cashews or replace them with a lower-calorie alternative like sliced almonds
- Increase the proportion of vegetables to chicken for a more balanced and nutrient-dense meal
- Serve the dish with a side of brown rice or quinoa instead of white rice to incorporate more whole grains and fiber
Editor's Opinion on This Cashew Chicken Recipe
The sheet pan cashew chicken recipe is a delightful combination of savory and sweet flavors, with a perfect balance of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables. The sauce brings a harmonious blend of umami and tangy notes, elevating the dish to a new level. The cooking method ensures that the chicken remains juicy while the vegetables retain their crispness. This recipe is a wonderful option for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal, and the presentation is as impressive as the taste. It's a definite crowd-pleaser and a great addition to any home cook's repertoire.
Why trust this Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Recipe:
This sheet pan cashew chicken recipe is a flavorful and convenient dish that brings together tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables in a delicious one-pan meal. The sauce is a perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors, enhancing the overall taste. With its simple yet nutritious ingredients, this recipe offers a healthy and satisfying option for any meal. The easy preparation and minimal cleanup make it a practical choice for busy individuals. Trust in the delicious outcome of this recipe for a delightful dining experience.
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