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Overhead view of copycat cashew chicken and peppers in a wok with crispy chicken and vegetables
Lindsay Lehrer

Better Than Takeout Cashew Chicken and Peppers

This better than takeout cashew chicken and peppers is a 30-minute copycat recipe that feeds a family of five for under $15. Crispy chicken, colorful peppers, and a sweet-salty umami glaze make this an easy weeknight dinner with leftovers for lunch the next day.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American, Asian Inspired
Calories: 520
Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients
  

Chicken
  • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into small cubes
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon white pepper
  • ¼ cup cornstarch
Vegetables & Nuts
  • 1 white onion diced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 1 green bell pepper diced
  • 1 cup unsalted cashews
  • 2 tablespoons garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger minced
Glaze
  • ⅓ cup soy sauce
  • 3 tablespoons honey
  • 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon fish sauce
For Cooking
  • Neutral oil for frying

Equipment

  • Wok or large skillet
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Mixing bowl or mason jar
  • Tongs or slotted spoon

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, toss the cubed chicken with soy sauce, white pepper, and cornstarch until evenly coated.
  2. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken in batches until golden and crispy. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same wok, add cashews and toast briefly until fragrant. Remove and set aside.
  4. Add onion to the remaining oil and sauté until lightly softened. Add red and green peppers, garlic, and ginger. Cook until crisp-tender.
  5. Combine glaze ingredients in a mason jar and shake well. Pour into the wok and stir until slightly thickened.
  6. Return chicken and cashews to the wok. Toss until fully coated in the glaze.
  7. Serve immediately over basmati rice or noodles.

Video

Notes

  • Cooking the chicken in batches is key to achieving a crispy texture.
  • The glaze thickens quickly once added to the pan—have all ingredients ready before pouring it in.
  • Optional garnish: sesame seeds or sliced green onions.