Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you’re a fan of delicious, tender chicken paired with a flavorful, sweet-and-savory sauce, then this Crockpot Cashew Chicken recipe is for you! Skip the hassle (and cost) of Chinese takeout and create this restaurant-quality dish right in your own kitchen. With juicy chicken, crunchy cashews, and a rich, sticky sauce, it’s the perfect comfort food to serve over rice. Best of all? It’s made effortlessly in your slow cooker, making it ideal for busy days.

What Makes Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken Special?

This dish is a perfect combination of flavors and textures. The chicken is lightly browned for a slightly crispy exterior before being slow-cooked to perfection. It’s then coated in a luscious sauce made with soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, and aromatic spices. Cashews provide a satisfying crunch, while a sprinkle of sesame seeds and scallions gives the dish a fresh finish.

Ingredients Required

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Tenderloins: Bite-sized pieces of tenderloins cook perfectly in the crockpot. You can also use chicken breasts or thighs for a richer flavor.
• Cornstarch: A light coating helps the chicken get slightly crispy when browned.
• Vegetable Oil: Use a neutral oil like canola, peanut, or sunflower for frying.

For the Sauce:

• Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness.
• Ketchup: Adds sweetness and tang to balance the savory flavors.
• Brown Sugar: Enhances the sweetness of the sauce.
• Seasonings: Garlic, black pepper, ground ginger, and red pepper flakes provide depth and a hint of spice.
• Sesame Seeds: Adds nuttiness and texture.
• Cashews: The star ingredient adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

For Garnish:

• Scallions and Sesame Seeds: Fresh scallions and extra sesame seeds elevate the dish with color and texture.

 Making of Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken

1. Prep and Brown the Chicken
   Coat the chicken pieces evenly with cornstarch. Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat and quickly brown the chicken pieces. This step isn’t for cooking the chicken through but for adding a flavorful golden crust.
2. Prepare the Sauce
   In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, black pepper, ground ginger, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds. This mixture will transform into a rich, savory glaze during cooking.
3. Assemble in the Slow Cooker
   Place the browned chicken in the crockpot. Add chopped red bell pepper for a pop of color and natural sweetness. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and stir to coat evenly. Toss in the cashews for that signature crunch.
4. Cook Low and Slow
   Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours. This slow cooking method ensures tender, juicy chicken that’s infused with flavor.
5. Serve and Enjoy
   Garnish with sliced scallions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Serve over a bed of steamed white or jasmine rice for a complete meal.

Tips for Success: Perfect Cashew Chicken Every Time

• For Crunchier Cashews: Add the cashews right before serving to retain their crisp texture.
• Make it Spicy: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of sriracha for a fiery kick.
• Healthier Option: Use chicken breast instead of tenderloins and swap brown sugar with honey or a sugar alternative.
• Storage and Reheating: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the microwave or stovetop to prevent overcooking.

Serving Suggestions: What Goes Well with Cashew Chicken?

• Rice: Steamed white rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice.
• Vegetables: Serve alongside stir-fried broccoli, green beans, or bok choy.
• Salad: A light cucumber salad or Asian slaw complements the rich flavors beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Tenderloins?
   Yes! Chicken thighs are juicy and flavorful, making them a great substitute.
2. How Can I Make This Dish Gluten-Free?
   Use tamari or a gluten-free soy sauce alternative.
3. Can I Double the Recipe?
   Absolutely! Ensure your slow cooker is large enough, and increase the cooking time slightly if needed.

Crockpot Cashew Chicken Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories: 434 kcal

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs chicken tenderloins, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tbsp cornstarch
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• ½ cup ketchup
• 4 tbsp brown sugar
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp ground ginger
• ¼ tsp red pepper flakes
• 1 tsp sesame seeds (plus more for garnish)
• 1 cup cashews
• 3 scallions, sliced

Instructions:

1. Toss chicken pieces in cornstarch, ensuring even coating.
2. Heat oil in a skillet and quickly brown chicken on all sides.
3. Add browned chicken and red bell pepper to the slow cooker.
4. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, ketchup, brown sugar, garlic, black pepper, ginger, red pepper flakes, and sesame seeds. Pour over chicken.
5. Add cashews and stir to combine. Cover and cook on LOW for 3–4 hours.
6. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds before serving. Serve hot over rice.

Nutrition:

• Calories: 434 kcal
• Carbs: 28g
• Protein: 41g
• Fat: 18g