Crispy Cashew Chicken Made on One Sheet Pan

There's a certain joy that comes from the sound of sizzling chicken and the vibrant colors of freshly chopped bell peppers mixing together on a sheet pan. I discovered this delightful Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken on a particularly hectic evening, when time was racing against my desire for a wholesome dinner. With its perfect harmony of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and a medley of veggies, this dish not only delivers bold flavors but also makes cleanup a breeze.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility; you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or proteins based on what you have on hand. Plus, it's a gluten-free option when using tamari, making it a hit for those with dietary restrictions. Whether you're cooking for a busy family or just treating yourself to a nourishing meal, this savory dish promises to satisfy your cravings without the fuss of fast food. Join me as we bring this quick, healthy weeknight favorite to life!

Why You'll Love This Crispy Cashew Chicken Made on One Sheet Pan

Simplicity at its finest: This recipe requires minimal prep and cleanup, making it ideal for busy weekdays.
Flavor-packed goodness: The savory marinade combined with roasted vegetables offers a delicious blend of tastes that will delight your palate.
Versatile options: Customize with your favorite veggies or proteins; try swapping in shrimp or tofu for a twist!
Healthy indulgence: With wholesome ingredients and a gluten-free option using tamari, you can enjoy comfort food guilt-free.
Crowd-pleaser appeal: Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping; everyone will love diving into this vibrant dish!

Crispy Cashew Chicken Ingredients

Explore the delicious components of this easy, one-pan recipe!

For the Chicken

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts - Tender and quick to cook; for more flavor, use chicken thighs instead.
Soy Sauce or Tamari - This umami-rich marinade base brings depth; use tamari for a gluten-free option.

For the Vegetables

Bell Peppers (Red & Green) - Adds sweetness and color contrast; feel free to use yellow or orange for a variant.
Red Onion - Offers a sweet and savory touch; substitute with yellow onion for a milder flavor.
Garlic - Provides aromatic warmth; fresh cloves are best for maximum flavor.
Fresh Ginger - Adds zesty brightness; grated ginger gives a lovely kick.

For the Crunch

Unsalted Cashews - Bring a delightful crunch to the dish; replace with almonds or peanuts if desired.

For the Marinade

Honey - Balances flavors and aids in caramelization; substitute with maple syrup for a vegan approach.
Rice Vinegar - Adds mild acidity; white wine vinegar can work as a substitute, though flavors will slightly differ.
Toasted Sesame Oil - Infuses nuttiness and depth; don't skip this for that authentic taste!

Embrace the magic of this Crispy Cashew Chicken Made on One Sheet Pan and let your taste buds revel in the savory delight!

How to Make Crispy Cashew Chicken

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and fresh ginger in a mixing bowl until smooth and well combined. This marinade is the secret to delicious flavor!
Marinate the chicken by adding it to the mixing bowl, ensuring every piece is coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or for deeper flavor, refrigerate for up to 4 hours.
Arrange the marinated chicken evenly on the prepared sheet pan. Surround it with the vibrant bell peppers and red onion, then drizzle any remaining marinade over the vegetables. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Bake for about 20 minutes without opening the oven door, allowing the chicken to brown nicely. The aroma will fill your kitchen with mouthwatering delight!
Stir the mixture gently and sprinkle the unsalted cashews over everything. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the vegetables are tender.
Rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle. If you like, garnish with fresh cilantro for an added touch of freshness.

Optional: Serve over fluffy jasmine rice or cauliflower rice for a complete meal.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Crispy Cashew Chicken

Fridge: Store leftover crispy cashew chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days; flavors will develop and improve overnight, making it even more delicious.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months; ensure the chicken and vegetables are completely cooled before sealing.

Reheating: Thaw the frozen chicken overnight in the fridge, then gently reheat in a skillet over medium heat to retain the crunch of the cashews and vegetables.

Wrap Carefully: If storing in the fridge, wrap tightly to avoid moisture loss; this keeps the chicken tender and flavorful.

Expert Tips for Crispy Cashew Chicken

Preheat Properly: Ensure your oven is fully preheated for even cooking; a hot oven helps achieve that perfect golden-brown color on the chicken.
Avoid Overcrowding: Keep space between the chicken and veggies on the sheet pan; this prevents steaming and guarantees a crispy finish for your cashew chicken.
Marinate Deeply: For maximum flavor, let the chicken marinate longer-up to 4 hours is ideal. This ensures savory goodness permeates every bite.
Use a Thermometer: Check the chicken's doneness with a meat thermometer, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and the best texture.
Cashew Caution: If your cashews brown too quickly, loosely cover the pan with foil during the last minutes of baking to maintain crunch without burning.
Customize Wisely: Feel free to swap in seasonal veggies, but remember that not all require the same cooking time-add heartier vegetables like carrots earlier for even cooking.

Crispy Cashew Chicken Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine as you customize this delightful recipe!

Protein Swaps: Replace chicken with shrimp or tofu for different textures and flavors; each option brings its unique charm.
Nutty Alternatives: If cashews aren't available, try unsalted peanuts or sliced almonds for a delightful crunch.
Vegetable Medley: Incorporate seasonal vegetables like zucchini, broccoli, or snap peas for added freshness and variety.
Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick that elevates the dish's flavor profile.
Vegan Version: Substitute honey with maple syrup or agave to create a fully vegan-friendly meal without sacrificing taste.
Rice Vinegar Twist: Swap rice vinegar for apple cider or white wine vinegar based on your pantry staples; each will add a different zest.
Marinade Boost: Experiment by adding a splash of orange juice or sesame seeds to the marinade for an exciting citrusy twist.
Gluten-Free Goodness: If you need a soy-free option, use coconut aminos instead of soy sauce or tamari to keep it light and gluten-free.

Make Ahead Options

These Crispy Cashew Chicken Made on One Sheet Pan is perfect for those who love the convenience of meal prep! You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, allowing those flavors to deeply infuse. Simply combine the marinade and coat the chicken as instructed, then refrigerate it until you're ready to cook. Additionally, you can chop the bell peppers and onion and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When it's time to serve, just spread everything on the sheet pan, bake as directed, and you'll have a delicious dinner ready in no time-just as tasty as if you made it fresh!

What to Serve with Crispy Cashew Chicken Made on One Sheet Pan?

Savor a complete meal experience that pairs beautifully with this vibrant dish, bringing delightful flavors to your dinner table.

Fluffy Jasmine Rice: This light and fragrant rice absorbs the savory marinated chicken juices, making every bite a perfect harmony of flavors.
Cauliflower Rice: A healthy, low-carb alternative, this rice adds a nice crunch and compliments the dish without overpowering its taste.
Simple Side Salad: Fresh greens with a sesame dressing enhance the meal with color and crunch, balancing the richness of the roasted chicken and cashews.
Stir-Fried Broccoli: Crisp-tender broccoli brings vibrant color and a satisfyingly crunchy texture, enhancing the meal's nutritional value and visual appeal.
Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet, caramelized carrots add an enticing sweetness, creating a delightful contrast that complements the savory profile of the chicken.
Mango Chutney: This fruity condiment introduces a tangy sweetness that beautifully balances the dish's flavors, offering a unique twist.
Green Tea or Iced Jasmine Tea: Refreshing drinks such as green tea provide a soothing contrast to the warm spices from the chicken and contribute to a light meal.
Chocolate Coconut Energy Bites: For dessert, these bites will satisfy your sweet tooth without guilt, featuring rich chocolate and chewy coconut flavors.

Crispy Cashew Chicken Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal because they cook quickly and remain tender. However, using chicken thighs can add even more flavor and juiciness to your dish.

How should I store leftovers of crispy cashew chicken?
For sure! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve overnight, making it a great option for meal prep. Just be sure to let it cool down before sealing it up to maintain the best texture.

Can I freeze crispy cashew chicken?
Yes, indeed! To freeze, place portions of the chicken and veggies in freezer-safe containers, ensuring they are completely cooled. This dish can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating to ensure the flavors and crunch are preserved.

What should I do if my chicken is undercooked?
Very important question! If you find that your chicken isn't cooked through, simply return it to the oven and cook for another 5-10 minutes, checking its internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Aim for a safe internal temp of 165°F (74°C). Letting it rest before serving can also help the juices redistribute for better texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! This recipe can easily cater to gluten-free diets by swapping regular soy sauce for tamari. Additionally, if there are nut allergies, consider replacing the cashews with sunflower seeds or omitting nuts altogether. Always check the labels of your ingredients for hidden allergens.

How do I know when my vegetables are done baking?
Certainly! The vegetables should be tender and slightly caramelized. If you prefer them crispier, feel free to bake for an additional 5 minutes, keeping an eye on them to ensure they don't overcook. The goal is that lovely bite without losing their vibrant color!