Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

When I think of a weeknight meal that brings joy to the table, Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is at the top of my list. This dish has been a family favorite for years, and it’s the perfect combination of flavors and textures that can brighten up any ordinary day. I remember the first time I made it; my kitchen was filled with the aroma of sizzling chicken, fresh vegetables, and the crunch of toasted cashews. It was a spontaneous decision after a busy day and surprisingly quick to whip up. The vibrant colors of the ingredients made it as pleasing to the eye as it was to the taste buds. Every bite was a delightful medley of savory and slightly sweet, and I couldn’t help but feel accomplished as my family gathered around the table, eagerly anticipating dinner.

What You’ll Need for Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

Gathering the right ingredients is essential in creating a delicious dish like Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry. Each component plays a crucial role in building flavor and texture. This recipe beautifully balances protein, crunch, and freshness, ensuring you have a well-rounded meal. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2/3 cup cashews – These nuts add a satisfying crunch and a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil – A healthy oil that’s great for high-heat cooking and contributes to the richness of the dish.
• 1 pound chicken breast – The main protein source, providing nourishment and heartiness.
• Sea salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
• Black pepper – Adds a mild heat and depth to the dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped – Gives a sweet, crispy element to the stir-fry.
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions plus additional for garnish – Brings a mild onion flavor and adds freshness.
• 2 teaspoons garlic – Infuses the dish with a robust aroma and taste.
• 8 teaspoons rice vinegar – Adds a hint of acidity that balances the dish.
• 1/4 cup water – Helps to create the sauce consistency.
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos – A soy sauce alternative that adds umami flavor.
• 1 tablespoon fresh hot chili paste – Introduces heat and complexity.
• 1 tablespoon honey – A touch of sweetness that enhances the overall flavor.
• 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder – A unique spice blend that adds warmth and depth to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil – Adds a nutty flavor that complements the cashews.
• Sesame seeds for garnish – Provides a final touch of flavor and texture.
• Cooked white rice or cauliflower rice, for serving – The perfect base for this stir-fry.

Recipe Steps for Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

Cooking Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delightful dish ready to serve in no time!

1. First, preheat your oven to 350°F. This is important for toasting the cashews to bring out their natural oils and enhance their flavor.
2. Next, place the cashews on a small baking sheet and bake them until they are lightly golden brown and toasted, about 10 to 12 minutes. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
3. While the cashews are toasting, heat the avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. This oil is perfect for high-temperature cooking and will add to the overall richness of the dish.
4. Once the oil is hot, add in the chicken breast cut into bite-sized pieces. Sprinkle with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. Cook the chicken until it’s almost done, ensuring there’s still a bit of pink in the center.
5. Now, it’s time to add in the chopped red bell pepper, green onions, and garlic. Stir everything together and cook until the vegetables are tender and the chicken is no longer pink, which should take about 3 to 5 minutes.
6. Next, pour in the rice vinegar and let it cook until it has evaporated, about 1 to 2 minutes. This will add a lovely tanginess to the stir-fry.
7. In a separate bowl, whisk together the water, coconut aminos, chili paste, honey, and five-spice powder. This mixture will become the flavorful sauce for your stir-fry.
8. Add the sauce into the skillet, then increase the heat to high. Bring everything to a boil and cook until thickened, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll want to stir occasionally to ensure everything is coated evenly.
9. Once the sauce has thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sesame oil and the toasted cashews until well combined.
10. Finally, serve your delicious stir-fry over cooked white rice or cauliflower rice, garnished with additional green onions and sesame seeds for a beautiful presentation.

Tips and Tricks about Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

Here are some tips to make your cooking experience even better:

• Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the stir-fry cool before sealing it up.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked stir-fry for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add more fresh hot chili paste or some chopped fresh chilies to the stir-fry.
• Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Perfect Matches for Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

When serving Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry, consider these delightful matches to enhance your meal:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fragrant rice is a perfect base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that pairs well with the stir-fry and keeps the meal light.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with a light vinaigrette can balance the flavors beautifully.
• Roasted Vegetables: Serve alongside some roasted seasonal veggies for added nutrition and color.
• Spring Rolls: For an appetizer, crispy spring rolls are a delightful way to start your meal.
• Occasion: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners or when entertaining guests, as it’s quick yet impressive.

FAQ

Conclusion

Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry blends incredible flavors and textures that make it a standout dish for any meal. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for any night of the week, ensuring your family will love it as much as mine does. So why not give it a try tonight? You won’t be disappointed!

Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry

This Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry is a quick, nutritious dish bursting with flavor. Tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and fresh vegetables come together perfectly in this easy weeknight dinner. Simple to make and delightful to eat, it’s a meal you’ll want to bring to your table tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2/3 cup cashews
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil
• 1 pound chicken breast
• 1 pinch sea salt
• 1 pinch black pepper
• 1 unit red bell pepper chopped
• 1/2 cup sliced green onions plus additional for garnish
• 2 teaspoons garlic
• 8 teaspoons rice vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 2 tablespoons coconut aminos
• 1 tablespoon fresh hot chili paste
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1/2 teaspoon Chinese five-spice powder
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1 unit sesame seeds for garnish
• 1 cup cooked white rice or cauliflower rice, for serving

Equipment

• Large Pot
• Baking Sheet
• Whisk
• Oven
• Chef's Knife
• Frying pan
• Wooden Spoon

Method

 

1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Place the cashews on a small baking sheet and bake until lightly golden brown and toasted, about 10-12 minutes. Set aside.
2. Heat the avocado oil on medium/high heat. Add in the chicken breast with a pinch of sea salt and black pepper and cook until almost done, but with a little bit of pink left.
3. Add the red bell pepper, green onion, and garlic, and cook until tender and the chicken is no longer pink.
4. Add rice vinegar and cook until it has evaporated, about 1-2 minutes.
5. Whisk together the water, coconut aminos, chili paste, honey, and five-spice powder.
6. Add into the pan, turn the heat up to high, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, cook until thickened, approximately 2-3 minutes.
7. Remove from the heat, and stir in the sesame oil and cashews.
8. Serve with rice of choice and garnish with green onion and sesame seeds.

Notes

Here are a few tips to keep in mind while making Easy Paleo Cashew Chicken Stir Fry:

• Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the stir-fry cool before sealing it up.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked stir-fry for up to 2 months. Just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
• Pairing: This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
• Make it Spicy: If you love heat, add more fresh hot chili paste or some chopped fresh chilies to the stir-fry.
• Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a large batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

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Meet Brooke Davis

I’m all about cozy, comforting food made with fresh, local ingredients. I develop most of our weeknight dinners and heartier main dishes. My specialty is taking a classic comfort food and giving it a bright, California twist. We all cook and test together, but I’m usually the one in charge of the main event and making sure every recipe is perfect.