A Perfect Blend of Flavor, Crunch, and Simplicity!
This Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli & Cashews combines tender, juicy chicken, vibrant green broccoli, and crunchy cashews in a savory stir-fry sauce. Quick, easy, and satisfying, this dish is ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Packed with flavor and loaded with protein, it’s a healthy option the whole family will love!
🍽️ Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- Small bowl for mixing the sauce
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- A large skillet or wok
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula
🛒 Ingredients
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 lb 450g boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup roasted cashews
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon grated ginger
🥣 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Wash and chop the broccoli into even-sized florets.
- Mince the garlic and grate the ginger.
Step 2: Prepare the Stir-Fry Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Set it aside.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and stir-fry until browned on all sides and fully cooked (about 4-5 minutes). Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
Step 4: Stir-Fry the Broccoli
In the same skillet or wok, add the broccoli and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
Step 5: Combine Chicken & Add Cashews
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the broccoli.
- Add the roasted cashews and pour the prepared stir-fry sauce over the mixture.
Step 6: Simmer & Combine
- Stir everything together well to ensure the sauce evenly coats the chicken, broccoli, and cashews.
- Simmer for 2-3 minutes until heated through and the sauce has thickened slightly.
Serve Immediately:
Remove from heat and serve hot with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles if desired. Garnish with optional sesame seeds or green onions for added flair.
💡 Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry:
- Prep Ahead: Chop all your ingredients ahead of time to save time during the cooking process.
- Don’t Overcook the Broccoli: Keep the broccoli bright green and slightly crunchy for the best texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and ginger elevate the flavor of this dish.
- Cashew Toasting Option: If you want an extra depth of flavor, lightly toast the cashews in a dry skillet before adding them to the stir-fry.
- Adjust Spice Level: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste for a bit of heat.
📝 Notes:
- Dietary Adjustments: Substitute soy sauce with coconut aminos for a gluten-free option.
- Add More Veggies: Include bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots for added color and variety.
- Make it Vegan: Use tofu or tempeh as an alternative to chicken and adjust the sauce accordingly.
🍏 Extra Info:
This Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli & Cashews is:
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Protein-Packed: Perfect for an energizing dinner.
- Family-Friendly: A crowd-pleaser for both adults and kids.
🥗 Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: ~400 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 9g
- Sodium: 650mg
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I make this stir-fry ahead of time?
A: Yes! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I add other vegetables to this stir-fry?
A: Absolutely! Bell peppers, carrots, snow peas, or asparagus work wonderfully with this dish.
Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
A: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a spoonful of chili paste to the stir-fry sauce for added heat.
Q: Can I use a different protein source?
A: Yes! Shrimp, tofu, or tempeh can be swapped for chicken if you prefer. Adjust cooking times as needed.
Q: Is this recipe kid-friendly?
A: Yes! The savory flavors and crunchy cashews make it appealing to both adults and children. For picky eaters, reduce or omit any bold flavors.
Enjoy your healthy, quick, and delicious Chicken Stir-Fry with Broccoli & Cashews! 🍗🥦🥜 A dish that’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for any weeknight dinner!