Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

Name: Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken: Easy, Delicious, and Quick!
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb chicken breast, cubed; 1 cup cashews; 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, broccoli, carrots); 3 tablespoons soy sauce; 2 tablespoons honey; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon ginger, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Posted on August 9, 2025

Dinner

Introduction to Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

As a busy mom, I know how precious time can be, especially when it comes to dinner. That’s why I absolutely love this Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken recipe! It’s a quick solution for those hectic weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and vibrant vegetables creates a dish that not only satisfies but also impresses. Plus, it’s all made on one pan, which means less cleanup for you. Let’s dive into this easy, flavorful recipe that your family will adore!

Why You’ll Love This Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

This Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken is a lifesaver for busy evenings. It’s not just quick to prepare; it’s also bursting with flavor! The sweet and savory sauce perfectly complements the tender chicken and crunchy cashews. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite veggies. With minimal effort and maximum taste, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Who doesn’t love a meal that’s both easy and delicious?

Ingredients for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken a success. Here’s what you’ll need:

Chicken breast: Cubed for tenderness and quick cooking. You can use thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
Cashews: These add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Feel free to swap them for almonds or peanuts if you like.
Mixed vegetables: I love using bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots for color and nutrition. You can easily substitute with your favorites like snap peas or zucchini.

Soy sauce: This brings a savory depth to the dish. For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead.
Honey: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the soy sauce. Maple syrup works well too!
Olive oil: Helps to coat the ingredients and adds healthy fats. You can use sesame oil for a more authentic flavor.

Garlic powder: A quick way to infuse flavor without the fuss of fresh garlic.
Ginger: Freshly grated ginger adds a zesty kick. If you’re in a pinch, ground ginger can be used.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to your taste!

For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing. Happy cooking!

How to Make Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s get cooking! This Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken is straightforward and fun to make. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Preheating is crucial because it ensures that your chicken cooks evenly and gets that lovely golden color. Trust me, you don’t want to skip this step!

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken and Vegetables

Next, grab your chicken breast and cube it into bite-sized pieces. This makes it cook faster and easier to eat. Then, chop your mixed vegetables. I like to keep them colorful and varied. Just remember, the smaller the pieces, the quicker they’ll cook!

Step 3: Make the Sauce

In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, ginger, salt, and pepper. This sauce is the heart of the dish, bringing all those sweet and savory flavors together. It’s like a warm hug for your chicken and veggies!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now, it’s time to mix! In your large bowl, combine the cubed chicken, chopped vegetables, and cashews. Pour the sauce over the top and toss everything together until well coated. Make sure every piece gets a taste of that delicious sauce!

Step 5: Spread on the Sheet Pan

Spread the mixture evenly on a sheet pan. This is important for even cooking. If everything is piled up, some pieces may cook faster than others. We want all that goodness to roast together perfectly!

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the sheet pan in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it! You’ll know it’s done when the chicken is cooked through and the veggies are tender. A quick poke with a fork should do the trick. If the chicken juices run clear, you’re golden!

Tips for Success

Prep your ingredients ahead of time to save precious minutes during cooking.
Use a sharp knife for easy and safe chopping of chicken and vegetables.
Don’t overcrowd the sheet pan; give everything room to roast beautifully.

Experiment with different vegetables based on what’s in season or what your family loves.
Let leftovers cool before storing them in an airtight container for easy reheating.

Equipment Needed

Sheet pan: A large baking sheet is essential. If you don’t have one, a roasting pan works too.
Mixing bowls: Use two bowls for mixing ingredients. Any size will do!
Whisk: A simple whisk is perfect for combining the sauce. A fork can work in a pinch.

Knife and cutting board: Sharp knives make chopping easy and safe.

Variations of Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or chickpeas for a plant-based twist. Just make sure to press the tofu to remove excess moisture!
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or sriracha to the sauce for a fiery flavor that will wake up your taste buds.

Nut-Free Version: If you have nut allergies, simply omit the cashews and replace them with sunflower seeds for a similar crunch.
Low-Carb Adaptation: Serve the dish over cauliflower rice instead of regular rice for a lighter, low-carb meal.
Herb Infusion: Toss in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil right before serving for an aromatic finish that brightens the dish.

Serving Suggestions for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

Serve over rice: Fluffy jasmine or brown rice pairs perfectly with the dish.
Quinoa option: For a protein boost, serve it over quinoa for a nutty flavor.
Fresh salad: A crisp green salad adds a refreshing crunch.

Drink pairing: A light white wine or sparkling water complements the flavors beautifully.

FAQs about Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

As you embark on your culinary adventure with this Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries I’ve encountered, along with helpful answers!

Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?

While fresh chicken is ideal, you can use frozen chicken. Just make sure to thaw it completely before cubing and cooking. This ensures even cooking and better texture.

What vegetables work best in this dish?

You can use a variety of vegetables! Bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots are my favorites, but feel free to experiment with snap peas, zucchini, or even asparagus. The key is to choose veggies that roast well.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through. It’s a great way to enjoy a quick lunch!

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prep everything in advance and store it in the fridge. Just toss it in the oven when you’re ready to eat. It’s a fantastic time-saver for busy nights!

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken can easily be made gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. Just check your other ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well!

Final Thoughts

Cooking this Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a moment of joy for you and your family. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around the table, eager to dig in. With its vibrant colors and mouthwatering flavors, this dish is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Plus, the ease of cleanup means you can spend more time enjoying your meal and less time stressing over dishes. So, roll up your sleeves, embrace the joy of cooking, and savor every delicious bite!