As the sun begins to set and the day winds down, I often find myself craving a meal that feels both comforting and vibrant—something like this Orange Cashew Chicken. It was on one of those busy weeknights, when the only thing on my mind was the need for a quick yet satisfying dinner, that I first whipped up this delightful dish. The combination of crunchy cashews and juicy chicken enveloped in a sweet and tangy orange sauce transports you right to a cozy Asian bistro, without the lengthy prep or takeout price tag.
In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a plateful of goodness that’s not only packed with flavor, but also perfect for meal prep. With bright citrus notes dancing in the air and textures that keep each bite exciting, this recipe has quickly become a favorite among friends and family alike. Let’s dive into how to create this effortless weeknight wonder that will surely impress even the busiest of home cooks!
Why is Orange Cashew Chicken a Must-Try?
Quick to Make: In just 30 minutes, you’ll transform simple ingredients into a vibrant meal that’s ready to devour.
Flavor Explosion: The balance of sweet orange and savory soy sauce creates a taste sensation that will keep you coming back for more.
Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish has universal appeal that pleases all palates.
Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for those busy evenings, you can make ahead and enjoy delicious leftovers, making weeknight cooking a breeze.
Unique Texture: The crispy chicken combined with crunchy cashews offers a delightful contrast, making each bite a delightful experience.
Versatile Options: Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different proteins or nuts to create your version of this tasty dish! If you’re looking for more meal ideas that are both delicious and simple, don’t forget to check out my weeknight dinner collection.
Orange Cashew Chicken Ingredients
For the Sauce
- Orange Juice – Fresh juice provides the best sweetness and tanginess.
- Brown Sugar – This balances the sauce’s flavors; honey or coconut sugar work as substitutes.
- Rice Vinegar – Use unseasoned rice vinegar for the best acidity.
- Soy Sauce – Low-sodium soy sauce helps to manage the saltiness.
- Oyster Sauce – Adds depth; omit or replace with mushroom sauce for a vegetarian option.
- Minced Garlic – Enhances the dish’s aroma; add more for a stronger garlic flavor.
- Sesame Oil – Contributes a rich, nutty flavor; opt for toasted sesame oil for more intensity.
For the Chicken
- Cornstarch – Coats chicken pieces for a wonderfully crispy texture.
- Chicken Thighs – Juicier and more flavorful than chicken breasts; feel free to substitute with breasts if preferred.
- Oil – Olive oil or any neutral oil works great for cooking.
For the Garnish and Texture
- Green Onions – Adds freshness and crunch; separate the white and green parts for added flavor.
- Raw Cashews – Provides a delightful crunch; toast them for enhanced flavor.
- Toasted Sesame Seeds – Add a nutty flavor and visual appeal; can be skipped if not available.
- Toasted Sesame Oil (Optional) – A drizzle before serving adds an extra layer of flavor.
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s bring this Orange Cashew Chicken to life!
How to Make Orange Cashew Chicken
- Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, mix together orange juice and cornstarch. Add brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in orange zest and set aside.
- Prep Chicken: In a bowl, coat diced chicken thighs with cornstarch. Season with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring every piece is well-coated for that crunchy texture.
- Sear Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Cook Aromatics: In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the white parts of green onions, minced garlic, and raw cashews for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. You’ll want them fragrant!
- Combine and Serve: Add the seared chicken back into the skillet along with the orange sauce. Toss everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion tops; drizzle with toasted sesame oil if desired for an extra burst of flavor.
Optional: Serve with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes for added heat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Orange Cashew Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Orange Cashew Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To keep the chicken crispier, consider storing the sauce separately.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prep, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance. Just reheat on busy nights for a quick and delicious dinner!
Orange Cashew Chicken Variations
Feeling creative? Let’s explore some fun twists you can make to this delicious dish that will keep dinner exciting!
- Dairy-Free: Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a slightly sweeter, gluten-free option.
- Nuts Switch: Swap cashews for sliced almonds or toasted peanuts for a different nutty flavor profile.
- Protein Options: Try shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a fantastic seafood or vegetarian version.
- Extra Veggies: Add bell peppers or snap peas during the stir-fry for added color, crunch, and nutrition.
- Rice Option: Serve over cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist that doesn’t skimp on flavor.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in red pepper flakes or sriracha while cooking for a zesty heat that elevates the dish.
- Sweet Adjustment: For a sweeter sauce, increase the brown sugar or add a tablespoon of honey—perfect for those who like it sweeter!
- Citrus Variations: Mix in lime juice or zest for a fresh citrusy tang that pairs perfectly with the orange flavor.
With these variations, you can personalize your Orange Cashew Chicken and surprise your taste buds every time you make it!
What to Serve with Orange Cashew Chicken?
As you prepare this delightful dish, consider these complementary sides to create a well-rounded meal.
- Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant, fluffy texture absorbs the rich orange sauce beautifully, making each bite a little taste of heaven.
- Stir-Fried Veggies: A colorful mix of bell peppers, snap peas, and carrots adds crunch and vibrant color, enhancing the meal’s visual appeal and nutrition.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: With their crunchy shell and fresh fillings, spring rolls offer a delightful contrast to the tender chicken, making the perfect appetizer or side.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Infused with aromatic garlic, this dish pairs impeccably with the citrusy orange flavors, bringing a comforting, savory element to the table.
- Coconut Quinoa: The subtle sweetness and nuttiness of quinoa complement the dish while adding a healthy twist to your meal.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing, tangy salad with cucumbers and a hint of sesame gives a light crunch that balances the richness of the chicken perfectly.
- Chilled Green Tea: This refreshing drink not only cleanses the palate but also enhances the meal’s Asian-inspired flavors, making it a lovely dining experience.
- Chocolate Mousse: For a sweet completion to your meal, a silky chocolate mousse offers a delightful richness that contrasts nicely with the hints of citrus from the chicken.
Make Ahead Options
These Orange Cashew Chicken preparations are ideal for busy schedules! You can prep the sauce up to 3 days in advance by combining the orange juice, cornstarch, brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and sesame oil, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, the chicken can be diced and coated with cornstarch up to 24 hours ahead of time; store it in the refrigerator for freshness. To prevent the chicken from drying out, reheat it in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, and then add the prepared sauce to coat just before serving. With these simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Orange Cashew Chicken
• Sauce Consistency: Make sure to watch the sauce closely to prevent it from over-thickening; take it off the heat just before it’s perfect.
• Crispy Chicken: Coat the chicken pieces evenly with cornstarch and don’t rush the searing process to achieve that desired crispiness.
• Meal Prep Pro: If you’re prepping ahead, keep the sauce stored separately to ensure the chicken remains crispy and fresh when reheating.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh orange juice for the best flavor—bottled versions often lack the vibrant sweetness and acidity you’ll want in this Orange Cashew Chicken.
• Substitution Tips: Feel free to swap chicken thighs for breasts or try different nuts based on what you have on hand, but make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly!
Orange Cashew Chicken Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to know if my oranges are ripe?
Absolutely! Look for oranges that have a vibrant color and feel heavy for their size. Avoid any that have dark spots or feel soft, as that may indicate they are overripe. Fresh oranges will give you the best flavor for your sauce!
How should I store leftovers of Orange Cashew Chicken?
Very good question! Store your leftover Orange Cashew Chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep the chicken crispy, I recommend storing the sauce separately to maintain its texture.
Can I freeze Orange Cashew Chicken for later?
Certainly! To freeze, place the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container and it will keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently in a skillet. Adding a splash of water or broth can help restore moisture.
What if my sauce is too thick when I cook it?
If you find your sauce is getting too thick, just add a little water or broth to loosen it up. Return it to the heat and stir until it reaches your desired consistency. This way, you won’t miss out on that deliciousness!
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
For sure! This recipe contains soy sauce, which can be a concern for those with soy allergies. Additionally, the recipe uses sesame oil and raw cashews—ensure your guests are not allergic to nuts. If you prefer gluten-free options, you can substitute soy sauce with tamari.
Can I meal prep this dish?
Absolutely! This Orange Cashew Chicken is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare both the chicken and sauce in advance, just store them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat in a skillet for a quick, delicious meal during busy nights!
Zesty Orange Cashew Chicken in 30 Minutes or Less
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a saucepan, mix together orange juice and cornstarch. Add brown sugar, rice vinegar, soy sauce, oyster sauce, minced garlic, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
- In a bowl, coat diced chicken thighs with cornstarch. Season with salt and pepper, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Sear chicken for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil. Stir-fry the white parts of green onions, minced garlic, and raw cashews for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the seared chicken back into the skillet along with the orange sauce. Toss to coat the chicken evenly. Garnish with sesame seeds and green onion tops; drizzle with toasted sesame oil if desired.
