Air Fryer Cashew Chicken
Why Make This Recipe
Air Fryer Cashew Chicken is a fantastic dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a blend of flavors that create a delightful meal. It’s a healthier take on a classic favorite, using an air fryer to reduce oil while still achieving that crispy texture. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a casual dinner with friends. Plus, the air fryer makes cleaning up a breeze!
How to Make Air Fryer Cashew Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
- 1/4 cup steamed carrots, diced
- 2 tablespoons scallions
- 1/3 cup roasted cashew halves
Directions
- Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Put the chicken pieces in a Ziploc bag with 2/3 of the marinade and mix well. Marinate the chicken for about 30 minutes. If you have more time, refrigerate it for longer.
- Line the fryer basket with a grill mat or lightly greased aluminum foil.
- Spread the marinated chicken in the fryer basket. Air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.
- Meanwhile, heat a wok or frying pan with olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the remaining 1/3 of the marinade and stir constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Toss the cooked chicken, diced carrots, and cashew halves in the wok to coat everything evenly.
- Sprinkle scallions on top to serve.
How to Serve Air Fryer Cashew Chicken
To serve Air Fryer Cashew Chicken, place the chicken mixture on a plate and garnish with extra scallions if desired. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice or noodles, making it a filling meal.
How to Store Air Fryer Cashew Chicken
To store leftover Air Fryer Cashew Chicken, let it cool down first. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 3 days. To reheat, use the air fryer for a few minutes to regain that crispy texture.
Tips to Make Air Fryer Cashew Chicken
- Ensure the chicken pieces are cut evenly for uniform cooking.
- If you like it spicy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinade.
- For extra crunch, toast the cashews in the air fryer for a few minutes before adding them to the dish.
Variation
You can add vegetables like bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli for added nutrition and color. Feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste!
FAQs
Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
A: Yes, you can use boneless and skinless chicken breasts, but they may cook slightly faster than thighs.
Q: What can I serve with Air Fryer Cashew Chicken?
A: This dish goes well with white rice, brown rice, or noodles. Steamed vegetables are also a great side dish.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for a few hours or even overnight for more flavor. Just cook it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
Air Fryer Cashew Chicken
Ingredients
For the Marinade
- 1 lb boneless and skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon white vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon corn starch
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic
For the Chicken
- 1/4 cup steamed carrots, diced
- 2 tablespoons scallions
- 1/3 cup roasted cashew halves
Instructions
Preparation
- Mix all the marinade ingredients in a bowl.
- Put the chicken pieces in a Ziploc bag with 2/3 of the marinade and mix well. Marinate the chicken for about 30 minutes, or refrigerate for longer if possible.
Cooking
- Line the fryer basket with a grill mat or lightly greased aluminum foil.
- Spread the marinated chicken in the fryer basket and air fry at 380°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes until fully cooked.
- Meanwhile, heat a wok or frying pan with olive oil and sauté the garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the remaining 1/3 of the marinade to the wok and stir constantly until the sauce thickens.
- Toss the cooked chicken, diced carrots, and cashew halves in the wok to coat everything evenly.
- Sprinkle scallions on top to serve.
