As I pulled the sheet pan from the oven, the delightful aroma of roasted chicken and crispy cashews filled my kitchen, beckoning me to dive right in. This Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken recipe is a game-changer for busy weeknights, combining tender chicken, colorful bell peppers, and a touch of Asian-inspired flair—all in one dish! Not only is this meal incredibly quick to prepare, but it also offers a satisfying balance of flavors and textures that everyone at the table will love. With just 45 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a wholesome dinner that feels like a special treat without the hassle of multiple pots and pans. Ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? Let’s get cooking!
Why is Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Amazing?
Simplicity at its finest: With just one sheet pan needed, cleanup is a breeze!
Flavor explosion: The sweet and savory marinade perfectly complements the crunchy cashews and vibrant bell peppers.
Quick preparation: In just 15 minutes of prep and 25 minutes of cooking, you’ll have a mouthwatering meal ready to serve.
Versatile for everyone: Whether you're a busy professional or a culinary enthusiast, this dish meets everyone's cravings.
Crowd-pleasing appeal: It's a dish that will impress family and friends, making it perfect for gatherings—try serving it alongside your favorite side dishes for a complete meal!
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless, skinless chicken breast – ensures tender and juicy pieces that soak up the delicious marinade.
• Soy sauce – adds a salty umami depth that pairs beautifully with the honey.
• Hoisin sauce – gives a sweet and slightly tangy flavor profile that elevates the dish.
• Honey – balances out the saltiness while adding a hint of sweetness.
• Sesame oil – infuses a toasty aroma that enhances the entire dish.
• Garlic – provides a bold flavor that complements the chicken perfectly.
• Ground ginger – adds warmth and a hint of spice, bringing depth to the marinade.
• Cornstarch – helps thicken the marinade and coats the chicken for better adhesion.
For the Vegetables
• Red bell pepper – brings sweetness and color, making the dish visually appealing.
• Green bell pepper – adds a mild crunch that complements the other ingredients.
• Medium onion – caramelizes beautifully, adding a rich flavor to the mix.
For the Finish
• Raw cashews – provide an irresistible crunch and nutty flavor, a must for the perfect Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken.
• Salt and pepper – basic seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
• Green onions – sliced for a fresh garnish that adds a pop of color.
• Sesame seeds (optional) – sprinkle on top for a lovely finishing touch and added texture.
• Cooked rice – serve this dish over rice for a satisfying, hearty meal.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While the oven warms up, line a large sheet pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking and simplify cleanup. This preparation step sets the stage for your delicious Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken, ensuring that everything cooks evenly and comes out perfectly.
Step 2: Whisk the Marinade
In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk the mixture thoroughly until it’s well blended and smooth. This aromatic marinade will infuse your chicken with flavor, creating a delightful balance that enhances the entire dish.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Add the bite-sized chicken pieces into the bowl with the marinade, tossing to ensure each piece is evenly coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat. As it sits, the marinated chicken will become even more flavorful and tender, ready to shine in your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken.
Step 4: Arrange the Chicken
Once marinated, spread the coated chicken pieces evenly across the prepared sheet pan. This arrangement allows for maximum exposure to the heat while roasting, ensuring that each piece cooks through and develops a nice caramelization. Keep the chicken in a single layer for the best results.
Step 5: Add the Veggies
Scatter the chopped red and green bell peppers, along with the onion, around the chicken on the sheet pan. Drizzle any leftover marinade over the vegetables to enhance their flavor as they cook. Their bright colors will create an appetizing visual contrast that’s as delightful as it is delicious in your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken.
Step 6: Season the Mixture
Lightly season the chicken and vegetables with salt and pepper according to your taste. This step is vital for balancing flavors and enhancing the overall taste profile of your dish. The seasoning helps bring out the natural goodness of the ingredients in the Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken.
Step 7: Roast the Chicken and Veggies
Place the sheet pan into the preheated oven and roast for about 15 minutes. Keep an eye on your chicken and veggies as they cook; they should be sizzling and starting to caramelize, indicating that the flavors are melding beautifully. This roasting time develops the perfect textures and tastes for your meal.
Step 8: Add the Cashews
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the pan from the oven, and sprinkle the raw cashews over the chicken and vegetables. The cashews will toast slightly in the remaining cooking time, adding that delightful crunch to your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken. Ensure they are spread evenly for the best texture.
Step 9: Final Roasting
Return the pan to the oven and roast for an additional 7-10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), while the veggies will soften and brighten in color, elevating your dish even further.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Once roasted perfectly, remove the pan from the oven and garnish with freshly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds, if desired. The vibrant colors and added textures will enhance your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken visually and flavorfully. Serve hot over cooked rice for a satisfying meal.
Make Ahead Options
These Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken are a fantastic choice for meal prep lovers! You can marinate the chicken in the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply toss the chicken pieces in the marinade and let them soak in the refrigerator. The chopped vegetables can be prepared and stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain quality, keep everything separate until you're ready to roast. When it's time to cook, just spread the marinated chicken and veggies on your sheet pan, sprinkle the cashews on top, and roast as directed. You'll have a delicious weeknight meal ready with minimal effort, just as flavor-packed as when made fresh!
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
As the savory aromas waft through your kitchen, consider delicious pairings that elevate your meal beyond the typical weeknight dinner.
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Steamed Broccoli: Offers a fresh, tender crunch that perfectly contrasts the crispy cashews and savory chicken. Its vibrant green color adds a pop to your plate.
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Coconut Rice: The subtle sweetness of coconut rice brings a tropical flair, balancing the dish's savory richness while enhancing the overall experience.
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Peanut Salad: A zesty peanut salad with cucumber and carrots adds a refreshing crunch that complements the warm flavors of the chicken beautifully.
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Asian Slaw: This light, tangy slaw of shredded cabbage and carrots provides crispness and acidity, making each bite more interesting and palate-cleansing.
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Teriyaki Noodles: Satisfying noodles stir-fried with a touch of teriyaki sauce offer a delightful, saucy comfort that marries well with the flavors of the chicken.
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Mango Lassi: A creamy mango lassi is a deliciously sweet drink option that cools the palate and refreshes between bites of the flavorful cashew chicken.
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Fortune Cookies: End the meal on a sweet note with a light, crunchy fortune cookie, adding a fun twist and a bit of surprise to your dining experience.
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Ginger Tea: A warm cup of soothing ginger tea can enhance the meal's flavors, providing a cozy and comforting drink to sip while enjoying each bite.
Expert Tips for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
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Marinate Longer: If time allows, marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to an hour for deeper flavor absorption.
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Uniform Veggies: Cut your bell peppers and onions into similar sizes to ensure even cooking and tenderness in your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken.
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Watch the Oven: Keep a close eye on the roasting process; every oven is different, and you don't want overcooked chicken or burnt veggies.
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Customization: Feel free to add other vegetables like broccoli or snap peas for added variety and color, enhancing your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken.
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Shortcut to Clean Up: Line the sheet pan with aluminum foil in addition to parchment paper for even easier cleanup!
How to Store and Freeze Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
Fridge: Store any leftover Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked dish in a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.
Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, ensuring the cashews stay crunchy.
Serving Suggestions: If you're storing the chicken with rice, keep rice separate to maintain texture. Reheat both components before serving for the best experience.
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Variations
Feel free to explore and personalize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds!
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Dairy-Free: Omit any added butter or dairy products, as this recipe already fits the dairy-free bill.
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Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh, marinating them in the same mixture to soak up all that flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of Sriracha to the marinade for some extra heat!
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Nut-Free: Replace cashews with toasted sunflower seeds for a crunchy texture without the nuts.
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Extra Veggies: Toss in bite-sized broccoli florets or snap peas for added color and nutrients; they’ll roast perfectly alongside the chicken.
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Brown Sugar Substitute: Use maple syrup instead of honey for a vegan-friendly sweetener that adds a unique flavor profile.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the dish just before serving for a bright burst of acidity that elevates the entire meal.
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Cooked Rice Alternatives: Serve over quinoa or cauliflower rice for a nutritious twist that's perfect for any dietary preference.
Don’t forget to complement your meal with your favorite side dishes for a truly satisfying experience that everyone will love!
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting boneless skinless chicken breasts, look for ones that are firm and have a healthy pink hue. Avoid any that appear dull or have dark spots, as these can indicate spoilage. Also, fresh chicken should feel moist, not sticky or slimy.
How should I store leftover Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken?
Very! To keep your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken fresh, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend reheating it in the oven to restore its delicious crunch.
Can I freeze Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze your cooked dish, make sure it’s completely cooled, then transfer it into a freezer-safe container. It will maintain its quality for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
What if my vegetables are overcooked?
If you find that your vegetables are becoming too soft, consider taking them out of the oven a few minutes earlier than the chicken. Next time, slice them into larger pieces to help them retain their texture better during cooking!
Is this recipe suitable for people with nut allergies?
Absolutely! If someone at your table has a nut allergy, feel free to simply omit the cashews from the recipe. You can substitute with some toasted sunflower seeds or leave them out altogether. The dish will still be full of flavor and satisfying!
Any tips on making this recipe healthier?
Sure! To make your Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken even healthier, consider using a mix of colorful vegetables such as broccoli or snap peas for extra nutrition and fiber. Additionally, you can reduce the honey to lower the sugar content without sacrificing flavor!
Delicious Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken Ready in 45 Minutes
Equipment
- Oven
- Sheet Pan
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoon hoisin sauce
- 2 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
For the Vegetables
- 1 medium red bell pepper chopped
- 1 medium green bell pepper chopped
- 1 medium onion chopped
For the Finish
- 1 cup raw cashews
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 2 tablespoon green onions sliced
- sesame seeds optional
- 2 cups cooked rice for serving
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, hoisin sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, ground ginger, and cornstarch. Whisk until smooth.
- Add the bite-sized chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 15 minutes.
- Spread the marinated chicken evenly across the prepared sheet pan.
- Scatter the chopped red and green bell peppers and onion around the chicken. Drizzle any leftover marinade over vegetables.
- Lightly season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
- Roast for about 15 minutes until sizzling and starting to caramelize.
- Carefully sprinkle the raw cashews over the chicken and vegetables. Roast for an additional 7-10 minutes until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired. Serve hot over cooked rice.
