Crock Pot Cashew Chicken: A Flavorful Delight Straight from Your Slow Cooker
Few things beat the convenience and satisfaction of a dish that practically cooks itself, and Crock Pot Cashew Chicken is a prime example. With tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a rich, savory sauce, this recipe brings the flavors of your favorite takeout straight to your kitchen, all with minimal effort. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or just someone who loves delicious food, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thigh tenders or chicken breast tenders
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp canola oil
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp rice wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
- 1/2 cup cashews
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken: In a shallow dish, combine the all-purpose flour and black pepper. Dredge the chicken tenders in the flour mixture until evenly coated.
- Brown the Chicken: Heat the canola oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken tenders on both sides, working in batches if necessary. Transfer the browned chicken to the slow cooker.
- Mix the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice wine vinegar, ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and red pepper flakes. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours or on high for 1-2 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Add Cashews: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the cashews. This allows them to soften slightly and absorb some of the flavors of the sauce.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked and the cashews are added, serve the Crock Pot Cashew Chicken over rice or noodles. Garnish with sliced green onions or sesame seeds if desired.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the sauce during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Adding Vegetables: For a complete meal, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers, snap peas, or broccoli to the slow cooker along with the chicken.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your taste preferences. Add more for extra heat or omit them entirely for a milder dish.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions:
Keto Version:
- Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for dredging the chicken.
- Substitute the brown sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia.
- Serve the Crock Pot Cashew Chicken over cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice to keep the carb count low.
Low-Carb Version:
- Use a low-carb ketchup or make your own by combining tomato paste with vinegar, sweetener, and spices.
- Reduce the amount of cashews or omit them entirely to lower the carb content further.
- Serve the chicken over spiralized zucchini noodles or shirataki noodles for a low-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken thighs? Yes, you can use either chicken breast tenders or chicken thigh tenders in this recipe. Both will work well, so use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time? Absolutely! You can brown the chicken ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. You can also prepare the sauce in advance and keep it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to cook, simply combine everything in the slow cooker and proceed as directed.
3. Can I freeze leftovers? Yes, Crock Pot Cashew Chicken freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
4. What can I serve with Crock Pot Cashew Chicken? This dish pairs well with steamed rice, quinoa, or noodles. You can also serve it with stir-fried vegetables or a side salad for a complete meal.
Crock Pot Cashew Chicken is the perfect blend of convenience and flavor, making it a must-have recipe in your culinary repertoire. With its tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and irresistible sauce, it’s a dish that satisfies both your taste buds and your desire for a hassle-free meal. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this recipe is sure to impress. So, dust off your slow cooker and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade meal with minimal effort required