Description
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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
Notes
Feel free to double the sauce ingredients if you prefer more glaze on your chicken and veggies.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Protein: 36 g