1-Step 1: Prepare and Season the Chicken Start by cutting 1 ½ pounds of boneless, skinless chicken breasts into uniform 1-inch pieces. Keeping the chunks similar in size ensures they cook evenly. Season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. This initial seasoning layer penetrates the meat and provides a foundation of flavor that carries through the entire dish. Place the seasoned chicken pieces and ¼ cup of cornstarch in a large resealable plastic bag. Seal the bag tightly, leaving some air inside, and shake vigorously until every piece is evenly coated with the cornstarch. The cornstarch serves two important purposes: it creates a light crust that browns beautifully, and it helps thicken the sauce as the dish finishes cooking.

2-Step 2: Cook the Chicken to Golden Perfection Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Wait until the oil shimmers slightly, indicating it has reached the proper temperature for cooking. Add the coated chicken pieces in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the pan. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until each piece develops a golden brown exterior. The chicken does not need to cook completely through at this stage since it will finish cooking in the sauce. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.

3-Step 3: Create the Savory Sauce While the chicken browns, whisk together the sauce ingredients in a small bowl. Combine ¼ cup soy sauce (or low-sodium soy sauce), ½ cup chicken broth, 3 cloves of minced garlic, 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 1 tablespoon hoisin sauce, and 1 teaspoon sesame oil. Stir until the brown sugar dissolves completely and all ingredients are well blended. This sauce mixture delivers the signature sweet and savory flavor profile that makes cashew chicken recipe so irresistible. The hoisin sauce adds depth while sesame oil provides a finishing aromatic note that ties everything together. For more inspiration on creating quick Asian-inspired dishes, check out this quick and easy cashew chicken variation.

4-Step 4: Combine Everything and Finish Cooking Return the browned chicken to the pan over medium heat. Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken and add 1 cup of whole unsalted cashews. Toss everything together continuously for 2-3 minutes. The sauce will begin bubbling and thickening as it coats each piece of chicken and the cashews. Continue cooking until the sauce reaches a glossy consistency that clings to the chicken and the cashews are heated through. The cornstarch coating on the chicken helps create a velvety texture without needing additional thickeners. When the chicken is fully cooked and the sauce coats everything evenly, remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.

5-Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Transfer the finished cashew chicken to a serving dish and garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and fresh flavor. Serve immediately over steamed white rice, brown rice, or cauliflower rice for a lower-carb option. The dish pairs wonderfully with steamed vegetables like broccoli or snap peas on the side.