Are you ready to take your taste buds on an unforgettable journey to the heart of Chinese cuisine? Dive into the bold and fiery flavors of Spicy Szechwan Chicken with Cashew Nuts Kung! This mouthwatering dish combines tender chicken thighs, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich Szechwan sauce that packs a punch. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is not just a meal—it's an experience that will leave everyone craving more. Get ready to spice up your dinner table!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs, sliced
- 1/2 cup cashew nuts
- 2 tbsp Szechwan sauce
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, grated
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Slice the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces, slice the bell pepper and onion, and mince the garlic. Grate the ginger and set all the ingredients aside.
- In a large bowl, combine the sliced chicken with 2 tablespoons of Szechwan sauce. Mix well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. Allow it to marinate for about 10 minutes for enhanced flavor.
- While the chicken is marinating, heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil and let it heat up until shimmering.
- Once the oil is hot, add the marinated chicken to the skillet. Stir-fry the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it is cooked through and no longer pink. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced onion, bell pepper, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, or until they begin to soften and become fragrant.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the vegetables. Add the remaining Szechwan sauce and stir everything together, ensuring that the chicken and vegetables are well-coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through.
- Finally, add the cashew nuts to the skillet and stir them in. Cook for another minute, allowing the nuts to warm up and absorb some of the flavors from the dish.
- Remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Spicy Szechwan Chicken with Cashew Nuts hot over cooked rice, garnishing with additional cashew nuts if desired.
Tips
- Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 10 minutes in the Szechwan sauce. This step enhances the flavor and ensures that each bite is packed with deliciousness.
- High Heat is Key: When stir-frying, make sure your skillet or wok is hot before adding the chicken. This helps to sear the meat quickly, keeping it juicy and tender.
- Prep Ahead: To make the cooking process smoother, prep all your ingredients in advance. Slice the vegetables and chicken, and have everything ready to go before you start cooking.
- Customize the Heat: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Szechwan sauce or add a touch of honey to balance the heat. Conversely, if you love spice, feel free to add extra sauce or even some chili flakes!
- Serve with Style: Garnish your dish with additional cashew nuts and fresh herbs like cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. Serve over fluffy cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 120mg
