Oven-Baked Cashew Chicken

This easy and flavorful dish combines tender chicken with crunchy cashews for a perfect weeknight meal. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a delicious way to enjoy a homemade dinner without much fuss.

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TIME1 hr 20 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

cooking spray ½ cup brown rice 1 cup diced celery 1 red bell pepper, diced 3 skinless, boneless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 cup water 2 tablespoons gluten-free soy sauce (tamari) 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 ½ teaspoons minced ginger ½ teaspoon ground cumin ½ teaspoon ground black pepper ¼ teaspoon salt 1 (8 ounce) can sliced water chestnuts, drained 1 cup cashews

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large casserole dish with cooking spray. Spread a layer of brown rice evenly across the bottom of the dish. Next, add the celery, red bell pepper, and green pepper over the rice, then place the chicken on top. In a small bowl, whisk together the water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, cumin, pepper, and salt. Pour this sauce evenly over the chicken and vegetables, then scatter the water chestnuts on top. Pop the casserole in the oven and bake until the chicken is cooked through and tender, about 45 minutes. Finally, sprinkle the cashews over the dish and bake for another 10 minutes or so, until they’re golden and toasted. Let it cool slightly before serving and enjoy!

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs for even cooking.
- Lightly toast the cashews before adding them to enhance their flavor.
- Keep an eye on the chicken towards the end of baking to avoid drying out.

Why you’ll love it

This dish combines the crunch of cashews with tender chicken baked to perfection. It’s a flavorful, healthy option that’s easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights. The oven baking method keeps the chicken juicy without extra oil.

Serving ideas

Serve with steamed rice or quinoa and a side of sautéed vegetables for a balanced meal. A fresh green salad or simple cucumber slices also pair well to add a refreshing crunch.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken moist and the cashews crunchy. Avoid freezing as it may affect the texture.