Air Fryer Cashew Chicken Recipe

If you’re craving a quick and flavorful takeout-style meal at home, this Air Fryer Cashew Chicken is the answer! Juicy chicken pieces are cooked to crispy perfection in the air fryer, then tossed with a rich, savory sauce and crunchy cashews. It’s a restaurant-quality dish that you can make in under 30 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Healthier Alternative: Enjoy the flavor of takeout without the extra oil.
  • Quick & Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Delicious Crunch: Cashews add the perfect texture to tender chicken bites.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chicken Breast: Cut into bite-sized pieces.
  • 1/2 cup Cashews: Raw or roasted, unsalted.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce: Low sodium preferred.
  • 2 tbsp Honey: For a touch of sweetness.
  • 2 tbsp Hoisin Sauce: Adds depth and richness.
  • 1 tbsp Rice Vinegar: For a hint of tang.
  • 2 Garlic Cloves: Minced.
  • 1 tsp Ginger: Grated.
  • 2 tsp Cornstarch: Mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry).
  • 2 tbsp Green Onions: Sliced for garnish.
  • 1 tsp Sesame Oil: Optional for added flavor.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Lightly spray or coat with cooking oil.
  2. Air Fry the Chicken: Place the chicken in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook at 375°F for 8-10 minutes, shaking halfway through, until the chicken is golden and cooked through.
  3. Make the Sauce: While the chicken cooks, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger in a saucepan. Bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the sauce thickens.
  4. Combine Everything: Toss the cooked chicken and cashews in the sauce until well coated.
  5. Serve: Garnish with green onions and drizzle with sesame oil if desired. Serve with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.

Pro Tips

  • Don’t Overcrowd: Cook the chicken in batches if needed for even crispiness.
  • Customize: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots for extra veggies.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat in the air fryer for best results.

Final Thoughts

This Air Fryer Cashew Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and crunchy. It’s faster, healthier, and tastier than takeout—and so easy to make. Let us know how you customize this recipe in the comments below!

Related Recipes

  • Air Fryer Sweet and Sour Chicken
  • Air Fryer Honey Garlic Shrimp
  • Air Fryer Teriyaki Chicken

Enjoy this delicious and easy recipe for your next weeknight dinner!