Spicy, tangy, and salty—20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles are the perfect dish for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With a delightful blend of flavors and textures, this recipe comes together in just 20 minutes, making it a quick go-to for anyone seeking a delicious meal. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and savory noodles will impress your family and friends alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This meal is ready in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Flavorful Blend: A unique mix of hoisin sauce, tamari, and spices creates an unforgettable taste experience.
• Versatile: Perfect for any occasion—dinner parties, family meals, or a cozy night in.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from cashews.
• Easy Cleanup: One-pan cooking means less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, having the right tools on hand is essential. Here are the key items you’ll need to whip up these flavorful noodles.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Glass jar with lid (for mixing sauce)
• Cooking pot (for boiling noodles)
• Cutting board
• Knife

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: This is crucial for browning the chicken evenly and ensuring all ingredients blend well.
• Glass jar with lid: Ideal for shaking up the sauce ingredients without making a mess.
• Cooking pot: Necessary for cooking noodles quickly to perfect tenderness.

this recipe

Ingredients

Spicy, tangy, and salty—all the right flavors and they all hit so well together. Delish!

For the Sauce

• 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 to taste

For the Chicken & Noodles

• 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 to taste
• 3 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch

For Serving

• 1/2 cup cashews
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
• Green onions, chopped

How to Make 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Combine all sauce ingredients in a glass jar. Add 1/3 cup water to achieve the desired consistency. Shake well until combined.

Step 2: Cook the Noodles

Cook the ramen or rice noodles in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes until just soft. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet over medium-high heat:
1. Add cubed chicken along with garlic powder, ground ginger, black pepper, and cornstarch.
2. Toss with tamari or soy sauce.
3. Cook for about 8 minutes until browned.

Step 4: Add Cashews

Stir in cashews and cook for an additional 2 minutes until they turn golden brown.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Pour over your prepared sauce. Cook until it thickens slightly. Then add cooked noodles; toss well to coat everything evenly.

Step 6: Serve

Remove from heat and serve hot topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for extra flavor.

Enjoy your deliciously quick meal of 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles!

How to Serve 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

Serving 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles can elevate your meal experience. Here are some delicious ways to present and enjoy this dish.

Garnish with Fresh Ingredients

• Green Onions – Chopped green onions add a fresh flavor and vibrant color.
• Sesame Seeds – Toasted sesame seeds enhance the nuttiness of the dish.
• Cilantro – Fresh cilantro provides an aromatic touch that complements the flavors.

Pair with Refreshing Salads

• Cucumber Salad – A light cucumber salad balances the richness of the noodles.
• Asian Slaw – Crunchy Asian slaw adds texture and a tangy bite.
• Mango Salad – Sweet mango pieces can brighten up the overall presentation.

Serve with Extra Sauce

• Hoisin Sauce Drizzle – A drizzle of hoisin sauce on top enhances the depth of flavor.
• Chili Oil – For those who like heat, a splash of chili oil can take it up a notch.

How to Perfect 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

Perfecting your 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles is easy with these helpful tips. Use them to enhance your cooking experience.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh chicken and vegetables will provide the best flavor and texture.
• Cook Noodles Al Dente – Ensure your noodles are slightly firm for better texture in the final dish.
• Adjust Spice Levels – Modify chili paste according to your heat preference for a customized taste.
• Prep in Advance – Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients ahead of time to streamline your cooking process.

Best Side Dishes for 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

Complementing your meal with side dishes can enhance the dining experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Steamed Broccoli – Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutrients and a pop of color.
2. Stir-Fried Vegetables – A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and snap peas brings freshness and crunch.
3. Garlic Green Beans – Sautéed green beans with garlic provide a savory contrast to the noodles.
4. Fried Rice – A side of vegetable fried rice offers additional carbs that pair well with the main dish.
5. Roasted Cauliflower – Seasoned roasted cauliflower gives an earthy flavor that complements chicken well.
6. Spring Rolls – Crispy spring rolls make for a delightful appetizer or side, enhancing the Asian theme.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your cooking experience. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Using the wrong noodles: Not all noodles work well in this dish. Stick to ramen or rice noodles for the best texture and flavor.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for a golden brown color and check for doneness at around 8 minutes.
• Skipping the sauce preparation: The sauce is key to flavor. Make sure to combine all ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the chicken for a balanced taste.
• Neglecting to season properly: Don’t skip on spices like black pepper and chili flakes. They enhance flavor, so adjust according to your spice preference.
• Not tossing the noodles with sauce: Ensure that you mix everything well after adding the noodles. This helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the dish.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before refrigerating.

Freezing 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
• Make sure to leave space for expansion as liquids may separate upon freezing.

Reheating 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to prevent sticking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles:

Can I use beef instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with beef for a different protein option while keeping the same delicious flavors.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

You can replace chicken with tofu or tempeh and ensure that you use vegetable broth instead of any meat-based options.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add bell peppers, broccoli, or snap peas for extra crunch and nutrition without compromising on flavor!

How spicy is this dish?

It has a moderate spice level due to chili paste. You can adjust it by reducing the amount or omitting it entirely if you prefer milder flavors.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

Yes! You can prep most ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. Just combine everything when you’re ready to cook.

Final Thoughts

The 20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles are not only quick but also packed with flavor and versatility. You can easily customize this dish by substituting proteins or adding seasonal vegetables. Give it a try, and enjoy a delightful meal in just 20 minutes!

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20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

20 Minute Cashew Chicken Noodles are a delicious and vibrant dish perfect for those busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. This quick recipe combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and savory noodles in a spicy and tangy sauce, all ready in just 20 minutes! With its rich flavors and delightful textures, it’s sure to impress everyone at the table. Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also uses wholesome ingredients packed with protein and healthy fats, making it both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, these flavorful noodles will become your go-to meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 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 to taste
• 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 to taste
• 3 tablespoons arrowroot powder or cornstarch
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 2 tablespoons tamari or soy sauce
• Green onions, chopped

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Instructions

1. In a glass jar, combine hoisin sauce, tamari or soy sauce, vinegar, chili paste, garlic, ground ginger, and black pepper. Add 1/3 cup water to adjust consistency. Shake well.
2. Cook ramen or rice noodles in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until soft. Drain.
3. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add cubed chicken along with garlic powder, ground ginger, black pepper, and cornstarch. Toss with tamari or soy sauce; cook for about 8 minutes until browned.
4. Stir in cashews; cook for an additional 2 minutes until golden.
5. Pour in the prepared sauce; cook until it thickens slightly. Add cooked noodles; toss to coat evenly.
6. Serve hot topped with sesame seeds and chopped green onions.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Stir-frying
• Cuisine: Asian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate (about 350g)
• Calories: 520
• Sugar: 10g
• Sodium: 830mg
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 52g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding vegetables such as bell peppers or snap peas. Adjust spice levels by modifying the amount of chili paste used. Prep ingredients ahead of time to streamline your cooking process.