Ever find yourself craving something delicious but dread the thought of spending hours in the kitchen? This slow cooker cashew chicken recipe is your ticket to a flavorful, fuss-free meal that practically cooks itself while you go about your day.
Why This Recipe Works
- The slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, transforming simple ingredients into a dish bursting with flavor without any need for constant attention.
- Cashews add a delightful crunch and richness, elevating the dish from good to unforgettable.
- It’s incredibly versatile; serve it over rice, noodles, or even by itself for a satisfying meal.
- Perfect for meal prep, this dish tastes even better the next day, making leftovers something to look forward to.
- With a balance of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 cup cashews, unsalted
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1 tbsp cornstarch
- 2 tbsp water
Equipment Needed
- Slow cooker
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Small bowl
- Whisk
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Chicken
Start by cutting your chicken thighs into 1-inch pieces. This size is perfect for ensuring each piece cooks evenly and absorbs all the delicious flavors. Pro tip: For extra flavor, you can marinate the chicken in half of the soy sauce for 30 minutes before adding it to the slow cooker, but this step is optional.
Step 2: Combine the Sauce Ingredients
In your slow cooker, whisk together the remaining soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, minced garlic, minced ginger, red pepper flakes, and chicken broth. This mixture will be the base of your dish, infusing the chicken with a perfect balance of flavors as it cooks.
Step 3: Add the Chicken and Cook
Add the chicken pieces to the slow cooker, stirring to ensure they’re fully coated in the sauce. Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2 hours. The chicken should be tender and fully cooked through. Pro tip: Resist the urge to open the lid too often, as this can significantly increase cooking time.
Step 4: Thicken the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch and water until smooth. Stir this mixture into the slow cooker, then add the cashews. Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes on high, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Once the sauce has thickened, sprinkle the sliced green onions over the top for a fresh, colorful finish. Serve your cashew chicken over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal that’s sure to satisfy.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their slow cooker cashew chicken even further, consider toasting the cashews before adding them to the dish for an extra layer of flavor. If you’re short on time, using chicken breasts instead of thighs can reduce cooking time, though thighs are recommended for their juiciness. For a thicker sauce, increase the cornstarch to 2 tablespoons. And don’t forget, this dish freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep.
Recipe Variations
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the chicken with tofu or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas in the last hour of cooking for a more colorful and nutritious dish.
- Swap the cashews for peanuts or almonds for a different nutty flavor profile.
- For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
- Use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Chicken breasts can be used in place of thighs for a leaner option. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as breasts can dry out if overcooked. Reduce the cooking time by about 30 minutes when using breasts, and consider checking for doneness a bit earlier to ensure they remain juicy.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To amp up the heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add some sriracha or chili garlic sauce to the sauce mixture. Another option is to garnish with sliced fresh chilies before serving for an extra spicy kick.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, this dish is perfect for meal prep. You can cook it as directed, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
Summary
This slow cooker cashew chicken recipe is a effortless way to enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal with minimal effort. Packed with flavor and versatility, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.
