Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken

This slow cooker cashew chicken recipe creates a savory dinner with tender chicken pieces coated in a flavorful sauce and just the right hint of crunch from cashews. Every bite brings a touch of takeout-style comfort but you can make it easily in your own kitchen. I rely on this when I want something fuss-free but satisfying on busy days.

When I first tested this for a weeknight meal, my whole family kept returning for seconds. Now we keep a bag of cashews in the pantry just for this favorite supper.

Ingredients

• Boneless skinless chicken breasts: I look for firm pink cuts with no gray spots or excess fat since fresh chicken gives a juicier texture
• Cornstarch: this is what helps the chicken get its light crispy coating even after slow cooking so check for a fine powder with no lumps
• Black pepper: adds gentle heat and I love using freshly ground
• Canola oil: a neutral oil for browning so the flavors stay clean and the finish is not greasy
• Low sodium soy sauce: brings salty umami flavor while keeping sodium levels in check look for brands with less than five hundred mg sodium per tablespoon
• Rice wine vinegar: a touch of acidity to brighten the sauce I usually grab an unseasoned version for clean flavor
• Ketchup: gives a hint of tang and color choose a variety with no corn syrup if possible
• Sweet chili sauce: adds gentle sweetness and zip so I like brands with visible flecks of chili
• Brown sugar: a touch of molasses flavor that keeps the sauce glossy aim for soft fresh sugar not hard lumps
• Minced garlic: buy firm heads for the best bold flavor and mince fresh for aroma
• Fresh ginger: adds brightness and warmth use a juicy smooth piece with papery skin that easily scrapes away
• Red pepper flakes: bring a background warmth go easy if you prefer mild
• Cashews: look for raw unsalted so you control the salt and avoid soggy nuts in the finished dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep and Coat the Chicken:

Toss chicken breast cubes with cornstarch and black pepper inside a large resealable bag making sure each piece gets a powdery coat for a light outer crisp when browned

Brown the Chicken:

Warm a large nonstick skillet with canola oil over medium high heat and lay the chicken in a single layer Let each piece cook undisturbed for about two minutes on each side until barely golden This step locks in the juices and prevents sogginess later

Mix the Sauce:

In a mixing bowl vigorously blend together soy sauce rice wine vinegar ketchup sweet chili sauce brown sugar minced garlic grated ginger and red pepper flakes Add cashews now for softer nuts Later for more crunch

Slow Cook:

Transfer browned chicken into your slow cooker Pour the sauce and cashews over everything Stir gently to coat every piece and make sure the sauce covers the bottom Cover and cook on the low setting for three to four hours The chicken will absorb all the flavor and become fork tender

Serve:

Once done spoon the saucy chicken and cashews over cooked rice for soaking up every last drop of sauce Add steamed vegetables alongside if you want a full one bowl dinner

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The cashews are my stand out ingredient I have fond memories of my daughter sneaking a bite of the sauced nuts straight out of the slow cooker before I even served dinner With each batch I look forward to that nutty surprise in every bite

Storage Tips

Store leftover cashew chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days To reheat use a microwave or gently warm on the stovetop with a splash of water to refresh the sauce The flavors deepen as it sits making the next day’s meal even tastier

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken breasts for boneless chicken thighs if you prefer more richness Just trim excess fat and cut into similar pieces If you do not have rice wine vinegar apple cider vinegar works and for a different flavor top with toasted sesame seeds instead of cashews

Serving Suggestions

This cashew chicken is wonderful over steamed jasmine or basmati rice For a lighter version serve with cauliflower rice or pile on steamed broccoli Add a wedge of lime for brightness or chopped green onion for a fresh finish

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Cultural Context

Cashew chicken has become a beloved American Chinese restaurant classic but its roots trace to Springfield Missouri where a chef combined local tastes with Asian ingredients This homemade version honors those flavors but lets you tweak for your own table

Recipe Questions

→ How do I ensure the chicken stays tender and moist?

Cut the chicken into even pieces, brown them before adding to the slow cooker, and avoid overcooking. Cooking on low heat helps retain moisture and tenderness.

→ Can I use roasted or raw cashews?

Both work well; roasted cashews add a rich, nutty depth, while raw cashews become buttery and tender as they cook. Add at the start for softer texture or just before serving for crunch.

→ Is it okay to substitute chicken thighs for breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs bring extra juiciness and flavor. Trim excess fat and use the same method for best results.

→ How can I adjust the sauce to taste less salty?

Use low sodium soy sauce and consider reducing the amount, then taste before serving. You can also increase vinegar or sugar for balance.

→ What sides pair well with this dish?

Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, or stir-fried vegetables like broccoli or snap peas complement the saucy chicken and cashews.