Cashew Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry Bake

Description

Cashew Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry Bake is a delicious fusion of classic Asian-inspired stir-fry flavours and the convenience of a one-pan baked meal. Tender chunks of chicken breast are combined with crisp broccoli florets, sweet red bell peppers, and colourful red onions, then coated in a rich garlic-ginger soy sauce. Crunchy cashews add texture and nutty flavour, while a touch of honey and hoisin sauce creates the perfect balance of sweet and savoury. This easy oven-baked recipe requires minimal hands-on preparation, making it ideal for busy weeknights, meal prep, or family dinners. Serve it over steamed rice, noodles, or quinoa for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients

2 chicken breasts, cubed
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 small red onion, sliced
1 cup cashews
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
¼ cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon cornstarch
½ cup chicken broth
1 tablespoon sesame oil
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste

Servings

Serves: 4 people
Yield: Approximately 4 generous portions

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or casserole dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, hoisin sauce, chicken broth, cornflour, minced garlic, and grated ginger until smooth and fully combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

Place the cubed chicken, broccoli florets, sliced red bell pepper, and sliced red onion into the prepared baking dish. Season lightly with salt and black pepper.

Pour the prepared sauce over the ingredients and toss thoroughly to ensure everything is evenly coated.

Step 4: Add Oils

Drizzle the sesame oil and olive oil over the mixture. Stir gently to distribute the flavours.

Step 5: Bake

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25–30 minutes. Stir the mixture halfway through cooking to ensure even baking and coating with the sauce.

Step 6: Add Cashews

During the final 5 minutes of baking, stir in the cashews. This helps them remain crunchy and prevents over-browning.

Step 7: Serve

Remove from the oven and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot over steamed rice, brown rice, noodles, or quinoa.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Approximate values:

Calories: 480
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 5 g
Fiber: 4 g
Sugar: 9 g
Sodium: 760 mg

Nutritional Benefits

Chicken breast provides lean, high-quality protein for muscle maintenance.
Broccoli is rich in fibre, vitamin C, vitamin K, and antioxidants.
Cashews supply healthy fats, magnesium, and plant-based protein.
Garlic and ginger contain natural compounds that support overall wellness.
Bell peppers provide vitamin C and colourful antioxidants.
A balanced meal containing protein, vegetables, and healthy fats.

Notes

Fresh broccoli gives the best texture, but frozen broccoli may also be used.
Low-sodium soy sauce can help reduce sodium content.
Add extra vegetables such as carrots, snap peas, or mushrooms if desired.
Stirring midway through baking helps the sauce coat all ingredients evenly.

Tips

Cut chicken into uniform cubes for even cooking.
Toast the cashews lightly before adding for extra flavour.
Use freshly grated ginger for the most vibrant taste.
For a spicy version, add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce.
Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble everything except the cashews and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs provide a richer flavour and remain very juicy.

Q: How should leftovers be stored?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?

Yes. Freeze after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with this bake?

Steamed jasmine rice, brown rice, noodles, cauliflower rice, or quinoa pair perfectly.

Q: How do I know the chicken is fully cooked?

The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C), and the chicken should be opaque throughout.

Cashew Chicken & Broccoli Stir-Fry Bake is a flavourful, colourful, and nutritious one-pan meal that combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, crunchy cashews, and a savoury garlic-soy glaze. Easy to prepare and packed with satisfying textures and flavours, it is a family-friendly recipe that brings the taste of stir-fry to the convenience of the oven.