Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Are you ready for a one-pan wonder that’s as delicious as it is easy to whip up? Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken is perfect for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike. This recipe combines tender chicken thighs, crispy cashews, and vibrant mixed vegetables all roasted together on a single sheet pan. It’s not just the ease of preparation that makes this dish a hit; it’s the delightful balance of flavors and textures that keeps your taste buds dancing.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
You might be wondering why you should add this recipe to your collection. For starters, it’s incredibly quick to prepare—perfect for those nights when you’re juggling work, family, and everything in between. Plus, it’s budget-friendly without skimping on flavor! Kids gobble it up, making it a fantastic option for family dinners.
“It’s deceptively simple but bursting with flavor! My whole family loved it, and I appreciated how easy cleanup was. Definitely a keeper!”
Preparing Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Let’s dive into how this delightful dish comes together. It really is as straightforward as it sounds. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time. Here’s a quick overview:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine chicken and veggies with all the seasonings in a bowl.
- Spread on a sheet pan for even cooking.
- Bake until done—easy as that!
What You’ll Need
To create this delicious meal, gather these key ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup cashews
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving)
Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand! Broccoli and snap peas are excellent choices too.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now let’s break down the cooking process into simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, cashews, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a sheet pan in a single layer.
- Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve it over cooked rice or noodles, and savor the deliciousness!
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken shines on its own, but it can also be dressed up creatively. Try serving it over fluffy jasmine rice, or toss it with some warm noodles for a heartier meal. A sprinkle of sesame seeds on top can add that extra touch.
How to Store & Freeze
If you have leftovers (though I’m sure they’ll be few!), let the dish cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It’ll stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3–4 days. For long-term storage, you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving!
Helpful Cooking Tips
Here are some pro tips to elevate your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken:
- For extra crunch, add the cashews halfway through cooking instead of at the beginning.
- Want a kick? Toss in some red pepper flakes to spice things up.
- Marinating the chicken for an hour can deepen the flavor profile; just don’t forget to adjust cooking times if using marinated chicken!
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish! Here are a few variations to consider:
- Use different proteins, such as shrimp or tofu, for a flavor twist.
- Swap the honey for maple syrup for a vegan alternative.
- Throw in some pineapple for a sweet and savory combo that’s sure to impress.
Common Questions
-
How long does this recipe take?
It takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20–25 minutes to bake, so you can have dinner on the table in around 30–35 minutes! -
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Absolutely! Just be aware that chicken breast can dry out quicker, so keep an eye on cooking time. -
Is it okay to use frozen mixed vegetables?
Yes! Just ensure they’re thawed and drained well before mixing them with the other ingredients.
With its simple preparation and delightful flavor, this Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking weekday meal inspiration! Enjoy the ease of cleanup as much as the delicious result!
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- 1 lb chicken thighs (cut into bite-sized pieces)
- 1 cup cashews
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots) Feel free to switch up the veggies based on what you have on hand!
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey Can be substituted with maple syrup for a vegan version.
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles (for serving) Excellent option for a heartier meal.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken thighs, cashews, mixed vegetables, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, and minced garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the mixture evenly on a sheet pan in a single layer.
- Bake in the oven for 20–25 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve it over cooked rice or noodles, and savor the deliciousness!
