Name: One Pan Broccoli Cashew Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces; 2 cups broccoli florets; 1/2 cup roasted, unsalted cashews; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons oyster sauce; 1 tablespoon honey; 1 tablespoon rice vinegar; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated; 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines everything you love about takeout-style stir-fry with the ease and healthiness of homemade cooking. The chicken is juicy, the broccoli stays vibrant and crisp, and the cashews add a delightful crunch. The simple yet flavorful sauce ties everything together beautifully. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, customizable, and made with wholesome ingredients, making it a go-to dinner for families and meal preppers alike.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
2 cups broccoli florets
1/2 cup roasted cashews (unsalted)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons oyster sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (optional, for thickening)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, honey, rice vinegar, garlic, and ginger. Set aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces, season with black pepper, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chicken and set aside.
Cook the Broccoli: In the same pan, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the broccoli and sauté for 3-4 minutes until crisp-tender.
Combine and Simmer: Return the chicken to the pan. Pour the sauce over the chicken and broccoli, tossing to coat. Simmer for 2-3 minutes. If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens.
Add Cashews: Stir in the cashews and cook for an additional minute.
Serve: Garnish with sliced green onions and serve immediately over rice or noodles if desired.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Spicy version: Add a teaspoon of chili garlic sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce.
Vegetarian option: Substitute the chicken with tofu or tempeh and use a vegetarian oyster sauce alternative.
Different vegetables: Add bell peppers, snap peas, or mushrooms for extra color and flavor.
Low-carb option: Serve over cauliflower rice or just enjoy it as is.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use raw cashews instead of roasted?

Yes, but it’s best to toast them lightly in a dry skillet for a few minutes to bring out their flavor.

Can I substitute oyster sauce?

You can use hoisin sauce or a mixture of soy sauce and a bit of sugar if you don’t have oyster sauce.

How do I prevent the chicken from drying out?

Cook the chicken just until it’s no longer pink inside. Using chicken thighs also helps keep it extra juicy.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce (or tamari) and a gluten-free oyster sauce alternative.

Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?

You can prep the chicken and broccoli in advance and store them separately in the fridge until ready to cook.

What’s the best way to keep broccoli crisp?

Cook it for just a few minutes so it stays bright green and slightly crunchy.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Add sriracha, chili garlic sauce, or a few pinches of crushed red pepper flakes.

What kind of rice pairs best with this dish?

Jasmine rice, brown rice, or even cauliflower rice are all great options.

Can I use frozen broccoli?

Yes, thaw and drain it first to avoid excess water in the pan.

Do I need to marinate the chicken?

No marinating is needed for this quick-cooking dish, but you can marinate it briefly in soy sauce and a little garlic if you have time.

Conclusion

One Pan Broccoli Cashew Chicken is a delicious and easy meal that’s loaded with flavor, color, and texture. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthier alternative to takeout. With tender chicken, crisp veggies, crunchy cashews, and a savory sauce all made in one pan, this dish is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.