Air Fryer Cashew Chicken: 30-Minute Flavor Delight

Name: Air Fryer Cashew Chicken: 30-Minute Flavor Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, diced; 1 cup cashews; 1 bell pepper, chopped; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup soy sauce; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp cornstarch; 1 tbsp vegetable oil; Salt and pepper to taste

By:

Christina R. Jones

November 2, 2025

This image was generated using artificial intelligence to illustrate the appearance of the recipe.

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite weeknight dinner: air fryer cashew chicken! It’s a game-changer, trust me! This dish takes all the flavors you love about traditional cashew chicken and gives it a quick, healthy twist using the air fryer. Picture this: tender pieces of chicken, mixed with crunchy cashews, colorful bell peppers, and aromatic garlic, all cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes. Can you believe it? It’s such a time-saver!

The air fryer not only cuts down on cooking time but also means you can enjoy that crispy texture without all the extra oil. I love how easy it is to whip up this dish after a long day. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a win-win for everyone at the table. Honestly, it’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures, and you can feel good about serving it. You’ll want to pair it with a side of rice or noodles, and just like that, dinner is done! Are you ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients List

1 lb chicken breast, diced
1 cup cashews
1 bell pepper, chopped
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp cornstarch
1 tbsp vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Prepare Instructions

Now, let’s dive into the step-by-step magic of making this air fryer cashew chicken! I promise it’s simple and satisfying, and you’ll be amazed at how quickly dinner comes together. Just follow these easy steps for a delicious meal in no time!

Preheat the Air Fryer

First things first, preheating your air fryer is super important! It ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that nice crispy texture we all love. Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and let it warm up for about 5 minutes while you prepare everything else. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference!

Prepare the Chicken Mixture

While the air fryer is heating up, grab a mixing bowl and let’s get that chicken ready. Add your diced chicken breast to the bowl, then pour in the soy sauce and honey. The honey adds a lovely sweetness that balances the savory flavors perfectly! Next, throw in the minced garlic, cornstarch, and vegetable oil. Give everything a good mix until the chicken is well-coated. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste; this will really elevate your dish!

Air Fry the Chicken

Now it’s time to cook! Carefully add the chicken mixture into the air fryer basket, making sure it’s in a single layer for even cooking. Set the timer for 10 minutes. Halfway through, give the basket a good shake to ensure all the pieces get that golden-brown color. It’s like giving your chicken a little dance party in there!

Add Vegetables and Cashews

Once the chicken is done with its first round, it’s time to add in those vibrant veggies. Toss in the chopped bell pepper, onion, and the star of the show—cashews! Mix everything together right in the basket. Set the timer for an additional 5-7 minutes, until the chicken is fully cooked through, and the veggies are tender but still crisp. You’ll love how the cashews get toasty in there!

Serve Hot

Alright, the moment you’ve been waiting for! Carefully take the basket out (watch out, it’s hot!), and let the delicious aroma fill your kitchen. I love to serve this air fryer cashew chicken over a bed of fluffy rice or noodles to soak up all that flavor. Add a sprinkle of sesame seeds or green onions on top for a little extra flair, and dinner is served! Enjoy every bite of this quick and tasty meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Cooking Time: This air fryer cashew chicken comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights!
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean chicken, colorful veggies, and wholesome cashews, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet honey, savory soy sauce, and crunchy nuts creates a taste explosion you won’t forget!
Easy Cleanup: With minimal cookware and the air fryer doing the heavy lifting, you’ll spend less time cleaning up and more time enjoying your meal.
Gluten-Free: This recipe is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions!

Tips for Success

Ready to take your air fryer cashew chicken to the next level? Here are some pro tips that I swear by to ensure it turns out perfectly every single time!

Marinate for Extra Flavor: If you’ve got a bit of time, consider marinating the chicken for at least 30 minutes before cooking. A simple mix of soy sauce and honey will deepen the flavors and make the chicken even more tender and delicious!
Adjust Cooking Times: Keep in mind that chicken sizes can vary. If you’re using larger pieces or thicker cuts, you might need to add a couple of extra minutes to ensure everything is cooked through. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Mix It Up: Feel free to add or substitute other veggies based on what you have on hand! Broccoli, snap peas, or even some grated carrots can make this dish even more colorful and nutrient-rich.
Don’t Overcrowd the Basket: It might be tempting to shove in more chicken to save time, but trust me, giving each piece its space will help them cook evenly and get that lovely crispiness. If necessary, cook in batches!
Shake It Up: Remember to shake the basket halfway through cooking! This little move helps the chicken and veggies cook evenly and prevents sticking.
Let It Rest: After cooking, let the chicken sit for a couple of minutes before serving. This helps the juices redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy!
Serve with a Side: Pair your air fryer cashew chicken with a side of steamed rice or noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. You can also sprinkle some sesame seeds or chopped green onions on top for that extra flair!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to impress everyone at the table with your amazing air fryer cashew chicken. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

Let’s talk about the nutritional goodness packed into this air fryer cashew chicken! It’s always nice to know what we’re putting on our plates, right? Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutrition per serving, which serves four. Keep in mind that these numbers can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use:

Calories: 320
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 10g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 20g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 10g
Protein: 25g
Sodium: 600mg
Cholesterol: 70mg

This dish is not only delicious but also offers a good balance of protein and healthy fats, making it a smart choice for a nutritious meal. So, when you’re enjoying your air fryer cashew chicken, you can feel good about the wholesome ingredients you’re savoring!

FAQ Section

Can I use other proteins?

Absolutely! This air fryer cashew chicken recipe is super versatile. You can easily swap out the chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a plant-based option. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For shrimp, aim for about 6-8 minutes, and for tofu, make sure it’s pressed and cubed well. You want everything to come out tender and flavorful!

How do I store leftovers?

Storing leftovers is a breeze! Allow the air fryer cashew chicken to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, just make sure to use a freezer-safe container or bag. It should last up to 3 months in the freezer! Just remember to let it thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Definitely! You can prep the chicken mixture earlier in the day or even the night before. Just marinate the chicken in the soy sauce, honey, and garlic, then store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors. Just make sure to give it a good stir before popping it in the air fryer!

What can I serve with air fryer cashew chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! I love serving it over fluffy rice or noodles to soak up all that delicious sauce. You could also add some steamed veggies or a fresh salad for a well-rounded meal. If you’re feeling fancy, try a side of stir-fried broccoli or snap peas—yum!

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, yes, yes! This air fryer cashew chicken is perfect for meal prep. Just make a big batch and portion it out into individual containers. It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it throughout the week. Just pop it in the microwave or back in the air fryer for a quick and satisfying meal. You’ll love having a healthy option ready to go when life gets busy!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your air fryer cashew chicken is super easy, and I want to make sure you enjoy those delicious leftovers just as much as the first time around! Once your chicken has cooled down to room temperature, transfer it into an airtight container. This helps lock in all those fantastic flavors and keeps it fresh. You can store it in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, feel free to freeze it! Just use a freezer-safe container or a heavy-duty freezer bag. It should stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze! If they’re refrigerated, just pop the chicken in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. If you want to maintain that crispy texture, the air fryer is your best friend here! Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C), then place the chicken in the basket for about 5-7 minutes, shaking it halfway through. This way, you’ll get that delightful crunch back while warming it up!

And there you have it—simple and effective storage and reheating tips that keep your air fryer cashew chicken tasting fresh and delicious! Enjoy every morsel!