If you are looking for a flavorful, satisfying dish that fits perfectly into a low-carb lifestyle, you are going to love this Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe. It combines tender chicken pieces with crunchy toasted cashews and a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors that make every bite a delicious experience. Perfectly keto-friendly and quick to prepare, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that feels special yet is easy enough for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in how straightforward the ingredients are, each adding its unique dimension to the dish. From the aromatic sesame oil to the punchy garlic and ginger, every element plays a key role in the depth of flavor, texture, and color of your Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe.
- 3 tbsp sesame oil: Adds a nutty, rich foundation to cook the chicken and vegetables in.
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces: The lean protein backbone of the dish, ensuring it stays keto-friendly.
- ¼ cup cashews: Toasted for crunch and a mild buttery flavor that contrasts the tender chicken.
- 1 tbsp minced ginger: Brings brightness and a subtle zing that energizes the flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp minced garlic: A must-have for warmth and depth in almost any savory dish.
- 1 dried chili: Adds a gentle heat that perks up the palate without overwhelming.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the flavors harmoniously.
- 1 sliced green onion for garnish: Provides a fresh pop of color and a mild onion flavor.
- 1 tsp sesame seeds for garnish: Adds texture and a final nutty touch to the presentation.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional): For a splash of vibrant color and subtle sweetness.
- 2 tbsp tamari soy sauce: Gives that classic umami depth with a gluten-free, keto-friendly twist.
- 2 tbsp keto-friendly chili sauce: Brings a spicy-sweet kick without the sugar overload.
- 2 tbsp keto-friendly honey: A natural sweetener that balances the savory and spicy elements.
- 1 tbsp vinegar: Adds an acidic brightness that lifts the overall flavor.
- 1 tsp arrowroot: Used as a thickener to give the sauce that perfect glossy finish.
How to Make Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Cashews
Start by warming a dry pan over low to medium heat and gently toasting the cashews. This step is crucial because it unlocks the nuts’ full flavor and gives you that crunchy texture that wonderfully contrasts with the tender chicken later on. Keep stirring frequently, and once they turn a light golden brown, take them off the heat and set aside to cool.
Step 2: Prepare the Sauce
In a small bowl, combine tamari soy sauce, keto-friendly chili sauce, honey, vinegar, arrowroot, salt, and pepper. Whisk everything together until the arrowroot fully dissolves. This sauce is like the heart of the dish—sweet, tangy, and with just the right kick to coat each piece of chicken perfectly.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces along with the minced ginger, garlic, dried chili, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s golden and crispy on the edges—usually about 5 to 10 minutes. If you’re adding bell pepper, toss it in midway through cooking so it softens slightly but still keeps some crunch.
Step 4: Add the Sauce
Pour your prepared sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Keep the heat on medium-high and allow the sauce to bubble and thicken, stirring frequently. This will take about 4 to 5 minutes, and you’ll start to see that beautiful glossy coating forming over the chicken pieces.
Step 5: Finish the Dish
Now, fold in the toasted cashews, stirring gently to combine everything. Before serving, sprinkle with sesame seeds and freshly sliced green onions to add that final flourish and an extra layer of flavor.
Step 6: Serve
Serve your Keto Cashew Chicken piping hot, ideally over cauliflower rice or wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves to keep things low-carb and fresh. This dish is satisfying enough to be a meal all on its own, but these serving ideas elevate the experience while sticking with keto principles.
How to Serve Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
For a vibrant and fresh final touch, sliced green onions and toasted sesame seeds are perfect. They add both color and subtle flavor contrasts that make every bite exciting and attractive on the plate. If you want, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro or a wedge of lime can bring an additional burst of freshness.
Side Dishes
Pairing your Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe with cauliflower rice keeps the meal hearty but carb-conscious. You can also serve it with steamed broccoli, sautéed spinach, or even zoodles for more greens and texture. These sides complement the dish’s robust flavors while maintaining the keto focus.
Creative Ways to Present
Think outside the bowl! Try wrapping the chicken in large butter lettuce leaves for a hand-held delight or serve in small keto-friendly tortillas for a fusion-style taco. Using a vibrant serving platter scattered with extra cashews and sliced chilies instantly turns your meal into a showstopper for guests or a cozy dinner night in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftovers of this Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days, making it an excellent option for meal prep or a quick next-day dinner.
Freezing
While this recipe freezes well, note that the fresh garnishes are best added after reheating. Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain the delicious texture of the chicken and keep the cashews crunchy by adding them fresh if needed.
FAQs
Is this Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! The recipe is straightforward, with simple steps and ingredients that anyone can handle, making it a perfect introduction to keto cooking.
Can I substitute the chicken breast with another protein?
Yes, chicken thigh can be used for a juicier option, or even firm tofu for a vegetarian twist—just adjust cooking times accordingly.
What can I use if I don’t have arrowroot?
Arrowroot acts as a thickener, but you can substitute it with xanthan gum or omit it entirely for a thinner sauce.
How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?
The dried chili adds a gentle heat, but you can easily adjust this by adding more chilies for spice lovers or omitting it for milder tastes.
Are cashews keto-friendly?
Yes, cashews can be enjoyed in moderation on keto since they contain some carbs but are low enough to fit comfortably within a typical keto diet.
Final Thoughts
This Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe is one of those dishes that makes healthy eating feel indulgent and exciting. With its blend of textures, vibrant flavors, and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for anyone embracing a keto lifestyle or simply looking for a tasty, satisfying meal. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite go-to dinner!
Print
Keto Cashew Chicken Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 to 2.5 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-inspired
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
This Keto Cashew Chicken recipe is a flavorful, low-carb dish featuring tender chicken breast pieces stir-fried with toasted cashews, aromatic garlic and ginger, and a tangy, keto-friendly sauce made with tamari soy sauce, chili sauce, and a touch of honey. Quick to prepare and perfect for ketogenic diets, this dish can be served over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 3 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup cashews
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 dried chili
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sliced green onion for garnish
- 1 tsp sesame seeds for garnish
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tbsp tamari soy sauce
- 2 tbsp keto-friendly chili sauce
- 2 tbsp keto-friendly honey
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp arrowroot powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Toast the Cashews: Toast the cashews in a dry skillet over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until they turn lightly golden. Remove from the pan and set aside to cool.
- Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine the tamari soy sauce, keto-friendly chili sauce, keto-friendly honey, vinegar, arrowroot powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly until the arrowroot powder dissolves completely, then set aside.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat the sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces along with minced ginger, garlic, dried chili, salt, and pepper. Cook the chicken for 5-10 minutes until golden and crispy. If using, add the chopped bell pepper halfway through cooking.
- Add the Sauce: Pour the prepared sauce into the skillet with the chicken. Allow the sauce to bubble and thicken for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to coat the chicken evenly.
- Finish the Dish: Stir the toasted cashews into the skillet to combine all flavors. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
- Serve: Serve the keto cashew chicken hot, ideally over cauliflower rice or wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb, ketogenic-friendly meal.
Notes
- For a spicier version, add extra dried chili or a dash of chili flakes.
- Arrowroot powder helps to thicken the sauce while keeping it gluten-free and keto-friendly.
- Using tamari soy sauce makes the recipe gluten-free; regular soy sauce can be substituted if gluten is not a concern.
- Ensure the chili sauce and honey are labeled keto-friendly to keep carb counts low.
- Bell pepper is optional; it adds extra color and nutrition but can be omitted to reduce carbs further.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
