Cashew Chicken Pad Thai

There’s something special about the way a dish can transport you to a different place or a cherished memory. For me, that dish is Cashew Chicken Pad Thai. It all started on a rainy day when my craving for something comforting and delicious hit me hard. I found myself in my kitchen, surrounded by a medley of vibrant ingredients, eager to recreate that unforgettable experience from my favorite Thai restaurant. The aroma of the sizzling garlic and toasted cashews filled the air, and before long, my home transformed into a haven of delightful scents. As the noodles danced in the pan, I knew I was about to whip up something incredible.

Every time I make Cashew Chicken Pad Thai, it feels like I’m crafting a little piece of joy. It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner with family or a casual gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and perfectly cooked rice noodles creates a harmony of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible. And the best part? You can customize it to your heart’s desire!

So, if you’re ready to embark on a culinary adventure and create a dish that will have everyone coming back for seconds, then let’s dive into the world of Cashew Chicken Pad Thai. Grab your apron and get ready for a delicious journey!

What to Buy for Cashew Chicken Pad Thai

When it comes to preparing Cashew Chicken Pad Thai, the ingredients you choose play a vital role in creating the perfect dish. Each component brings something unique to the table, ensuring a delicious and well-rounded meal. The combination of flavors and textures makes this dish stand out, from the tender chicken to the crunchy cashews. Let’s break down the essential ingredients that make this recipe shine.

• ⅓ cup water – This is used to create the sauce mixture, ensuring that all the flavors blend beautifully.
• ¼ cup soy sauce – A key ingredient that adds the necessary saltiness and umami flavor.
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar – This brings a tangy brightness that balances the dish.
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar – For a touch of sweetness that complements the savory and spicy elements.
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce – A traditional ingredient that enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1 teaspoon sriracha – For those who enjoy a bit of heat in their dishes.
• 1 package (8 ounces) pad thai rice noodles – The star of the dish, providing the base for all the other ingredients.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Divided for cooking the chicken and cashews, adding richness.
• ½ cup roasted salted cashews – These provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
• 18 ounce chicken breast – Thinly sliced, this adds protein and heartiness to the dish.
• ½ sweet onion – Thinly sliced to add sweetness and depth.
• 2 large carrots – Diced for color and crunch.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced to provide aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup snow peas – Adds a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
• ¼ cup thinly sliced green onion – For garnish and that final touch of freshness.

How to Assemble Cashew Chicken Pad Thai

Assembling Cashew Chicken Pad Thai is a straightforward process that will leave your kitchen smelling amazing. Follow along as I guide you through each step to create this delicious dish. With just a few ingredients and some simple techniques, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful meal in no time!

1. Add all the ingredients for the sauce to a small bowl: water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, fish sauce, and sriracha. Whisk until everything is well combined and set aside for later.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pad thai rice noodles and cook for about 4 minutes until they’re tender but still a bit firm. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside for later.
3. Heat a large high-sided skillet or wok over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat for about a minute.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the roasted salted cashews to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cashews are toasted and golden brown. Once done, remove the cashews from the skillet and place them on a plate to cool.
5. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and allow it to heat for an additional minute. This oil will help cook the chicken and vegetables.
6. Next, add the chicken breast, sweet onion, and carrots to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are just tender. You want the chicken to be a nice golden brown.
7. Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional minute to allow the garlic to release its aromatic flavor.
8. With the chicken and vegetables cooked, it’s time to add the sauce and the rinsed noodles into the pan. Toss everything together to combine, making sure the noodles are coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to warm the noodles through.
9. Lastly, add the snow peas and green onion to the skillet. Cook for just one more minute, or until the snow peas are warmed through and bright green.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with additional chopped cashews and sesame seeds, if desired. Enjoy!

Expert Tips about Cashew Chicken Pad Thai

Making Cashew Chicken Pad Thai is a rewarding experience, but there are a few tips that can elevate your dish to perfection. Here are some expert suggestions to help you get the best results.

• Storage: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked dish for up to a month. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up in a skillet.
• Pairing: Cashew Chicken Pad Thai pairs wonderfully with a fresh cucumber salad or some spring rolls for a delightful meal.
• Variations: Don’t hesitate to switch up the proteins! Shrimp or tofu can be great alternatives to chicken.
• Garnishes: Fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil make excellent garnishes, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Perfect Matches for Cashew Chicken Pad Thai

When serving Cashew Chicken Pad Thai, consider these delightful pairings to round out your meal:

• Spring Rolls: These light and crispy appetizers complement the rich flavors of the Pad Thai beautifully.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful vegetable stir-fry can provide a nutritious and vibrant side dish.
• Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad with lime dressing can balance the richness of the Pad Thai.
• Perfect for Dinner Parties: This dish is sure to impress your guests and can be easily scaled for larger groups.
• Ideal for Family Meals: Serve Cashew Chicken Pad Thai as a cozy family dinner, perfect for sharing.

FAQ

Conclusion

Cashew Chicken Pad Thai is truly a delightful dish that captivates the senses with its rich flavors and vibrant colors. Not only is it easy to make, but it also brings a touch of Thailand to your dining table. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next meal; it’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the cooking process and the delicious results!

Cashew Chicken Pad Thai

The ultimate comfort food, Cashew Chicken Pad Thai is a flavorful fusion of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and rich noodles that will satisfy your cravings. This easy weeknight dinner comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings. Whip it up tonight for a meal that everyone will love!

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Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Thai

Calories: 450

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• ⅓ cup water
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon fish sauce
• 1 teaspoon sriracha
• 1 package pad thai rice noodles
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ cup roasted salted cashews
• 18 ounce chicken breast
• ½ sweet onion sweet onion
• 2 large carrots
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1 cup snow peas
• ¼ cup green onion

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot
• Skillet
• Frying Pan
• Chef's Knife
• Whisk

Method

 

1. Add all the ingredients for the sauce to a small bowl: water, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, fish sauce, and sriracha. Whisk until everything is well combined and set aside for later.
2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the pad thai rice noodles and cook for about 4 minutes until they're tender but still a bit firm. Drain the noodles and rinse them under cold water to stop the cooking process. Set them aside for later.
3. Heat a large high-sided skillet or wok over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat for about a minute.
4. Once the oil is hot, add the roasted salted cashews to the skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cashews are toasted and golden brown. Once done, remove the cashews from the skillet and place them on a plate to cool.
5. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet and allow it to heat for an additional minute. This oil will help cook the chicken and vegetables.
6. Next, add the chicken breast, sweet onion, and carrots to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked through and the vegetables are just tender. You want the chicken to be a nice golden brown.
7. Now, add the minced garlic to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional minute to allow the garlic to release its aromatic flavor.
8. With the chicken and vegetables cooked, it's time to add the sauce and the rinsed noodles into the pan. Toss everything together to combine, making sure the noodles are coated in the sauce. Cook for an additional minute to warm the noodles through.
9. Lastly, add the snow peas and green onion to the skillet. Cook for just one more minute, or until the snow peas are warmed through and bright green.
10. Serve immediately, garnished with additional chopped cashews and sesame seeds, if desired. Enjoy!

Notes

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop to maintain texture.

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.