20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken: An Incredible Amazing Recipe

20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken is an amazing dish that you can whip up in no time. This flavorful meal is perfect for busy weeknights when you crave something delicious yet quick and easy to prepare. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a rich garlic butter sauce creates a delightful explosion of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also elevates your dinner game effortlessly.
Imagine a dinner that takes just 20 minutes yet feels like a gourmet experience. With this recipe, you’ll unlock the secrets to a restaurant-quality meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you are cooking for family or friends, this incredible dish is bound to impress. Get ready to dive into this quick yet satisfying meal that shows you’re a culinary wizard!
In the following sections, you’ll discover why you’ll love this recipe, the preparation and cooking times, necessary ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips on how to serve this delightful dish. Therefore, let’s get started and bring the magic of 20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken into your kitchen!

Preparation and Cooking Time

To help organize your time in the kitchen, here’s the breakdown of preparation and cooking times for making this delicious chicken dish:
– Preparation Time: 10 minutes
– Cooking Time: 10 minutes
– Total Time: 20 minutes
Thanks to the straightforward process and brief cooking time, you’ll have a delightful meal ready before you know it.

Ingredients

– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup unsalted cashews
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Step-By-Step Instructions

Creating 20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken is straightforward and quick! Just follow these steps:
1. Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat the Pan: In a large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
3. Cook the Chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the pan. Cook for about 5-6 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Prepare the Sauce: In the same pan, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter. Once melted, add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Mix in Cashews and Sauce: Add the cashews to the pan, stirring to combine. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, lime juice, and cornstarch. Pour this mixture into the pan.
6. Combine Everything: Return the cooked chicken to the pan, tossing everything together to ensure the chicken is evenly coated in the garlic butter sauce. Cook for another 2 minutes.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. If you prefer more sauce, consider adding a splash of water or broth.
8. Serve Hot: Remove the pan from the heat and serve immediately, garnished with sliced green onions and cilantro if desired.
Within just 20 minutes, you’ll have a wonderfully fragrant dish that’s delicious and satisfying!

How to Serve

The presentation can elevate your dining experience. Here are some tips for serving your 20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken:
1. Plate It Right: Serve the chicken over a bed of rice, quinoa, or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce.
2. Garnish: Sprinkling fresh cilantro and green onions adds a pop of color and enhances the flavor.
3. Pair with Veggies: Consider steaming some vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to serve alongside, creating a well-rounded meal.
4. Create a Family Style Meal: You can also serve the dish in a large serving bowl, allowing guests to help themselves, fostering a casual and warm dining atmosphere.
5. Accompaniments: Pair with a crisp salad or perhaps some quick pickled vegetables to balance the rich flavors of the dish.
By keeping these serving suggestions in mind, you can create an impressive dining experience with minimal effort. Enjoy your 20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken and the amazing flavors it has to offer!

Recipe Variation

Explore these variations to put a twist on the traditional 20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken:
1. Crispy Chicken: For a crunchy texture, coat the chicken pieces in panko breadcrumbs before frying them. This will add an irresistible crunch to your meal.
2. Veggie-Loaded: Introduce some colorful veggies such as bell peppers, snap peas, or carrots into the mix. Add them to the pan alongside the cashews for a healthy boost.
3. Ginger Infusion: Add a tablespoon of freshly grated ginger for an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the garlic and butter.
4. Coconut Chicken: For a tropical twist, replace some of the butter with coconut oil and sprinkle shredded coconut over the dish before serving.
5. Peanut Sauce Twist: Swap the garlic butter sauce for a creamy peanut sauce for a different flavor profile that complements the nuts beautifully.

Freezing and Storage

– Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan over low heat to preserve the flavors.
– Freezing: For long-term storage, you can freeze the cooked chicken dish. Ensure it cools completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It should last up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
– Reheating: Gently reheat in a pan, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.

Special Equipment

While making 20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken doesn’t require any special tools, having a few essentials will help:
– Large Pan: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet is ideal for even cooking and easy cleanup.
– Sharp Knife: For cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces, ensure your knife is sharp to make the process quick and safe.
– Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements guarantee the perfect balance of flavors.
– Whisk: A small whisk is handy for mixing sauces thoroughly, ensuring all ingredients are well combined.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I determine if the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should be golden brown and the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Using a meat thermometer takes the guesswork out of cooking chicken.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but if you need to prepare it in advance, cook everything except the sauce and the cashews. Add them right before serving.

What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or noodles. A side of steamed vegetables also complements the flavors beautifully.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This quick meal can be prepared in advance. Just keep the sauce separate until ready to heat and serve to maintain the best texture.

Can I adjust the portion size?

Absolutely! Simply adjust the quantities of each ingredient based on how many servings you need. This recipe scales well.

Conclusion

The 20 Minute Garlic Butter Cashew Chicken is a culinary gem that impeccably combines flavor and convenience. With its succulent chicken, crunchy cashews, and rich garlic butter sauce, this dish is a true delight that can elevate any dinner table. You’ll find it easy to prepare and impossible to resist. Whether for a busy weeknight meal or a special gathering, this recipe is sure to impress friends and family alike. Enjoy crafting this remarkable dish!

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