Name: Easy Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut bite-size; 1 red bell pepper, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1 red onion, diced; 1 cup unsalted cashews; ¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free); 3 tbsp honey (or maple syrup); 2 tbsp rice vinegar; 1 tbsp sesame oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp fresh ginger, minced; Salt & black pepper, to taste; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Are you ready to transform your dinner routine with an Easy Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken recipe that will have your taste buds dancing with delight? This dish perfectly balances savory, sweet, and spicy, creating a flavor profile that might just become your new favorite! Featuring juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and crunchy cashews, all enveloped in a rich garlic-ginger sauce, this recipe is tantalizingly irresistible. The best part? It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy weeknight yet so delicious, it feels like a special treat. Imagine the satisfaction of serving up a meal that’s not only healthier but also tastier than takeout—all in less than an hour!

The combination of ingredients in this dish not only delivers wonderfully complex flavors but also brings an array of nutritional benefits. Chicken provides lean protein to power you through the day, cashews offer healthy fats, and the medley of colorful veggies ensures you get a hearty dose of vitamins and minerals. As you embark on making this culinary masterpiece, prepare to wow yourself with how quickly and effortlessly you can create a magnificent meal from scratch, right in the comfort of your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

Quick and Easy: Ready in under an hour, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup required—everything cooks on one baking sheet!
Deliciously Nutritious: A balanced meal with proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates.
Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs.
Approachable Gourmet: Feel like a chef without needing a culinary degree!

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into cooking, a bit of preparation can make the process even smoother. Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking. A good sheet pan is indispensable for this recipe, as it allows even cooking of all ingredients, so choose one with a non-stick surface or line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup. A large mixing bowl is ideal for tossing the chicken in the marinade, ensuring every piece is adequately coated with the flavorful sauce. Don’t forget a sharp chef’s knife to handle precise chopping of the vegetables and chicken.

Ingredients

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut bite-size
1 red bell pepper, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1 red onion, diced
1 cup unsalted cashews
¼ cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
3 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
2 tbsp rice vinegar
1 tbsp sesame oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp fresh ginger, minced
Salt & black pepper, to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat Oven

Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This step is crucial as a hot oven ensures quick, even cooking that seals in flavors and keeps the chicken juicy.

Step 2: Prepare Marinade

In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and fresh ginger. This mixture will serve as a flavorful marinade that infuses the chicken with sweet and savory notes, enhanced by aromatic garlic and ginger.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken

Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the marinade. Toss them well to ensure they’re evenly coated. Let them rest for about 15 minutes to absorb the flavors—this short marination is key for deliciously tender chicken.

Step 4: Assemble the Sheet Pan

Lay out the marinated chicken, chopped red and green bell peppers, and diced red onion in a single layer on a large sheet pan. Pour any remaining marinade over the top, then season lightly with salt and pepper.

Step 5: Begin Baking

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 20 minutes. This initial cooking phase allows the vegetables to begin softening and the chicken to start cooking through.

Step 6: Add the Cashews

Remove the sheet pan from the oven and give everything a good stir. Sprinkle the unsalted cashews evenly across the top, then return the pan to the oven for another 10-15 minutes. This additional time ensures the chicken is fully cooked and the cashews turn golden and crunchy.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once baked to perfection, remove the sheet pan, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of freshness, and serve. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, noodles, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Variations

Protein: Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for a different yet equally delicious take.
Vegetables: Include broccoli florets or snap peas to add extra veggie goodness.
Spices: Introduce a kick by adding chili flakes or a touch of Sriracha to the marinade.

Cooking Notes

Ensure your oven is fully preheated before baking to achieve the best texture.
Feel free to double the sauce ingredients if you prefer more glaze on your chicken and veggies.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with fluffy jasmine rice or on top of ramen noodles for a comforting bowl.
Add a side salad dressed with sesame dressing for a refreshing complement.

Tips

Prepare all your ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
For added flavor, toast the cashews before adding them to the sheet pan.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: 36 grams
Sodium: 700 mg

FAQs

Can I use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Try peanuts or almonds for a slightly different flavor and crunch.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken up to a day in advance to enhance the flavors further.

What if I don’t have fresh ginger?

Feel free to use 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger as a substitute for fresh ginger.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Definitely! Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version of this recipe.

Conclusion

This Easy Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor, making it a go-to meal for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious homemade dinner without the hassle. From the tender, marinated chicken to the vibrant vegetables and crunchy cashews, every bite is a taste of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re cooking for your family or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try, and share your versions—there’s no wrong way to enjoy this delicious fare!