Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Keto Cashew Chicken is the ideal combination of savory, crunchy, and spicy, all wrapped up in a low-carb package. The sesame oil gives it a rich flavor, while the tamari soy sauce and keto-friendly honey create the perfect balance of salty and sweet. The toasted cashews add a satisfying crunch, and the chicken is perfectly tender and golden. It’s an easy-to-make, protein-packed meal that’s perfect for anyone following a keto or low-carb diet, and it’s full of flavor without the need for takeout.

Ingredients

For the Chicken:
- 3 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 lb chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
- ¼ cup cashews
- 1 tbsp minced ginger
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 dried chili
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 sliced green onion for garnish
- 1 tsp sesame seeds for garnish
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)
For the Sauce:
- 2 tbsp tamari soy sauce
- 2 tbsp keto-friendly chili sauce
- 2 tbsp keto-friendly honey
- 1 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tsp arrowroot
- Salt and pepper to taste

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

Directions

Toast the Cashews: Begin by toasting the cashews in a dry pan over low to medium heat. Stir frequently to prevent burning. The cashews should turn lightly golden but not brown. Once toasted, remove them from the pan and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: While the cashews toast, mix up your sauce ingredients in a small glass measuring cup or bowl. Combine the tamari soy sauce, keto-friendly chili sauce, keto-friendly honey, vinegar, arrowroot, and salt and pepper. Stir until the arrowroot is fully dissolved, and set the sauce aside.
Cook the Chicken: Heat the sesame oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until it’s hot and shimmering. Add the chicken pieces to the pan, along with the minced ginger, garlic, dried chili, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for 5–10 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken is golden and crispy on the outside. If you’re using bell pepper, add it to the pan halfway through the cooking process.
Add the Sauce: Once the chicken is fully cooked and crisped up, pour the prepared sauce into the pan. Let it bubble and thicken for about 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Finish the Dish: Add the toasted cashews to the pan, stirring them in to combine. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and green onions for garnish.
Serve: Serve your Keto Cashew Chicken hot, either on its own or over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps for a complete, low-carb meal. Enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 2 servings
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version of this dish. Just make sure to cook the tofu or tempeh until it’s golden and crispy before adding the sauce.
Spicy Kick: If you like your dishes extra spicy, add more dried chili or a splash of sriracha to the sauce for an added kick.
Low-Sodium: For a lower-sodium version, use a low-sodium tamari soy sauce or coconut aminos instead of regular tamari soy sauce.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover Keto Cashew Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. You can also microwave it, but the texture of the cashews will not be as crunchy.

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While the cashews should be added at the end to keep their crunch, you can prepare the chicken, sauce, and vegetables in advance. When ready to serve, simply reheat and add the cashews for that perfect crunch.

Can I use a different type of nut instead of cashews?

Yes! You can substitute cashews with other nuts like almonds or macadamia nuts, but keep in mind that it may change the flavor and texture slightly.

Is this dish spicy?

It has a mild spice from the dried chili, but if you prefer a milder version, you can omit the chili or reduce the amount.

Can I use regular honey instead of keto-friendly honey?

Keto-friendly honey or a sugar substitute like monk fruit syrup works best for this recipe to keep it low-carb. Regular honey will add more carbs, so it’s best to stick with keto-friendly options for a true keto dish.

Can I freeze this dish?

You can freeze the cooked chicken and sauce without the cashews. Once ready to eat, reheat it on the stovetop and add freshly toasted cashews.

Conclusion

This Keto Cashew Chicken is an easy, flavorful, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy nights or anyone looking to enjoy a healthy, low-carb takeout-style dish at home. The combination of toasted cashews, savory chicken, and rich sauce is a flavor explosion that’s sure to become a favorite. Whether you serve it over cauliflower rice or in lettuce wraps, this recipe offers a quick and nutritious dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste!