20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

There’s something truly magical about whipping up a delicious meal in no time, and that’s exactly what you get with 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles. Picture this: it’s a busy weeknight, and you just got home from a long day. All you want is a satisfying dish that doesn’t take forever to prepare. That’s where these noodles come in! With the perfect balance of flavors and textures, this dish is not only a lifesaver for when you’re short on time but also a delightful treat for your taste buds.

As I began experimenting with quick and easy meals, I stumbled upon this fantastic combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and flavorful sauces. The real star here is the simplicity; not only can you cook this meal in about twenty minutes, but you can also tailor it to your preferences. Want it spicier? Add more chili paste. Prefer it sweeter? A touch more hoisin sauce will do wonders.

One evening, after a particularly hectic day, I decided to try out this recipe. I had some fresh vegetables to use up, alongside a bag of cashews and a couple of chicken thighs. Within minutes, my kitchen was filled with enticing aromas, and my family couldn’t wait to dig in! The creamy sauce paired beautifully with the noodles, and it felt like comfort food in a flash.

Now, whether it’s for a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles is sure to impress. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce more flavors into your weeknight routine without the fuss. So roll up your sleeves, grab your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Shopping List for 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

The ingredients for 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles work together beautifully, creating a wonderful blend of flavors and textures. The key players in this dish are the chicken, cashews, and noodles, each contributing to a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet quick to prepare. You’ll find that these components, combined with a flavorful sauce, make for a delightful dining experience.

• 1/3 cup hoisin sauce – This thick, sweet sauce adds depth and richness, making the dish incredibly flavorful.
• 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce – This salty element brings out the umami in the chicken and noodles.
• 2 tablespoons vinegar – A splash adds brightness and balances the sweetness of the hoisin sauce.
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (I like gochujang) – Use this to add a kick of heat that complements the other flavors.
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped – Fresh garlic infuses the dish with aroma and flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger – This spice contributes warmth and a hint of sweetness.
• Black pepper and chili flakes – These add additional flavor complexity and heat to the dish.
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil) – This oil enriches the dish and adds a nutty flavor that pairs well with the cashews.
• 10-12 ounces ramen noodles or rice noodles, cooked – These serve as the base of the dish, soaking up the delicious sauce.
• 1 ½ pounds chicken thighs, breasts, or tenders, cubed – The protein that makes this dish hearty and satisfying.
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder – For an extra layer of garlic flavor that enhances the chicken.
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger – A small amount to further boost the flavor profile.
• Black pepper – A must for seasoning the chicken and enhancing its taste.
• 3 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch – This thickens the sauce, giving it a luscious consistency.
• 1/2 cup cashews – These nuts add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that elevates the dish.
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce – Another splash of soy sauce for seasoning the chicken.
• Green onions, chopped, for serving – These add a fresh, vibrant touch to your finished dish.

Making 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

Cooking 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just twenty minutes. Trust me; you won’t regret it!

1. To make the sauce, combine all the ingredients in a glass jar and add 1/3 cup water. Seal the jar and shake until everything is well mixed. The sauce should be smooth and slightly thick, perfect for coating the noodles.
2. Next, cook the noodles for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they are just soft. Drain them well and set aside. This step is essential because you want the noodles to retain some texture when mixed with the sauce.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine the cubed chicken, garlic powder, ginger, black pepper, and cornstarch. Toss everything with tamari until well-coated. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Once the chicken is nearly done, add the cashews to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cashews are golden and fragrant. This adds a lovely crunch to the dish.
5. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and cashews in the skillet. Stir well and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce clinging to the chicken, making it look irresistible!
6. Finally, add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce and combine the flavors. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
7. Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the noodles and chicken warm, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

Tips and Tricks about 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

Here are some handy tips to help you perfect your 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles experience:

• Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce.
• Freezing: This dish can be frozen! Place it in a freezer-safe container for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Pairing: Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad to add crunch and color.
• Garnishing: Don’t skip the green onions and sesame seeds; they add freshness and texture.
• Leftover chicken: If you have leftover cooked chicken, you can use it in this recipe instead of cooking fresh chicken.
• Spice levels: Adjust the amount of chili paste to control the heat to your liking.

Serving This 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

Serving 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles is as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Plate presentation: Serve the noodles in large, shallow bowls for a beautiful display. Top with additional green onions and sesame seeds for color.
• Occasions: This dish is perfect for casual family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even quick lunches.
• Side dishes: Pair with a simple cucumber salad or steamed broccoli for added crunch and nutrition.
• Seasonal pairing: In summer, consider adding in fresh herbs like basil or cilantro for a refreshing twist.
• Storage tips: Remember to let the dish cool completely before storing in airtight containers. This helps maintain freshness.
• Meal prep: Prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. This will save you time when you’re ready to cook.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles stand out as a perfect solution for busy weeknights, combining speed with irresistible flavor. I encourage you to give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a favorite at your table. Not only will you love how quickly it comes together, but your taste buds will thank you for this delightful experience!

20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

The ultimate comfort food, 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles combines tender chicken and crunchy cashews in a luscious sauce. This easy weeknight dinner is bursting with flavor and comes together in just twenty minutes. You’ll want to make it tonight!

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Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 20 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Asian

Calories: 600

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• 1/3 cup hoisin sauce
• 1/3 cup tamari or soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons vinegar
• 1 tablespoon chili paste (I like gochujang)
• 4 cloves garlic, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• black pepper and chili flakes
• 3 tablespoons sesame oil (or olive oil)
• 10-12 ounces ramen noodles or rice noodles, cooked
• 1 1/2 pounds chicken thighs, breasts, or tenders, cubed
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• black pepper
• 3 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
• green onions, chopped, for serving

Equipment

• Skillet
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. To make the sauce, combine all the ingredients in a glass jar and add 1/3 cup water. Seal the jar and shake until everything is well mixed. The sauce should be smooth and slightly thick, perfect for coating the noodles.
2. Next, cook the noodles for about 2 to 3 minutes, until they are just soft. Drain them well and set aside. This step is essential because you want the noodles to retain some texture when mixed with the sauce.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, combine the cubed chicken, garlic powder, ginger, black pepper, and cornstarch. Toss everything with tamari until well-coated. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through.
4. Once the chicken is nearly done, add the cashews to the skillet. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cashews are golden and fragrant. This adds a lovely crunch to the dish.
5. Pour the sauce mixture over the chicken and cashews in the skillet. Stir well and cook until the sauce thickens slightly, about 2 to 3 minutes. You'll notice the sauce clinging to the chicken, making it look irresistible!
6. Finally, add the cooked noodles to the skillet. Toss everything together gently to coat the noodles evenly with the sauce and combine the flavors. This step is crucial for ensuring every bite is packed with taste.
7. Once everything is well mixed, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the noodles and chicken warm, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds. Enjoy!

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Meet Fiona Lewis

I love cooking with the seasons and keeping things rustic and real. I believe the best meals are the ones shared with friends and family. I had so much fun creating this recipe, and I can't wait to hear what you think of it!