There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma that fills your home when a meal is simmering away in the slow cooker. Recently, I was searching for a quick yet satisfying weeknight recipe that wouldn’t compromise my healthy eating goals. That’s when I discovered the delightful world of Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken. This dish combines tender, juicy chicken with a thick, savory sauce that’s infused with garlic and ginger—a true culinary dream come true!
Picture this: after a long day, instead of reaching for takeout, you can have a wholesome, homemade dinner waiting for you with minimal effort. In just 10 minutes of prep, you can set this Whole30-friendly meal and let your slow cooker do the magic. Not only is it quick to make, but this recipe is also easily adaptable for different dietary needs, making it the perfect addition to your meal rotation. So grab your slow cooker, and let’s create a delicious dish that will leave you craving more!
Why is Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken a must-try?
Comforting aroma: There’s nothing quite like the welcoming scent of tender chicken and rich sauce wafting through your home.
Quick preparation: With just 10 minutes of active time, you can set it and forget it!
Health-conscious: This Whole30-friendly recipe is gluten-free and soy-free, perfect for various dietary needs.
Versatile options: Easily swap in veggies or nuts to suit your taste and ingredients on hand.
Crowd-pleaser: Your family and friends will rave about this healthier take on takeout!
Experience the magic of slow cooking with this fantastic dish that makes healthy eating a breeze!
Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Diced Chicken Breasts – Boneless and skinless is best for a tender result.
For the Sauce
• Arrowroot Flour – Great for thickening the sauce; can use cornstarch as an alternative if needed.
• Salt and Black Pepper – Essential for enhancing the natural flavors of the chicken; adjust according to your taste.
• Coconut Aminos – A fantastic soy-sauce substitute that adds a rich umami flavor, perfect for those avoiding soy.
• Sugar-Free Ketchup – Use a brand like Primal Kitchen for a sweet balance in the sauce.
• Rice Vinegar – Offers a tangy note that brightens the overall flavor profile.
• Sesame Oil – Adds a delightful nuttiness; avocado oil can be used if you prefer.
• Minced Garlic – Essential for that aromatic touch; garlic powder can work in a pinch.
• Minced Ginger – Brings warmth and spice; fresh is ideal, but powdered ginger is a fine substitute.
• Coconut Sugar – Provides subtle sweetness, which you can skip or replace with orange juice for Whole30.
• Honey – Adds sweetness; substitute with orange juice to stay compliant with Whole30.
• Chinese Five-Spice Powder – Key for that authentic flavor; don’t skip it!
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Optional, for a kick of heat; adjust to your heat preference.
For the Finale
• Raw Cashews – Add these at the end for a satisfying crunch; choose unsalted and unroasted for best results.
• Water – To dissolve the arrowroot for easy thickening.
Whip up this amazing Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken with these simple ingredients and enjoy a healthier, flavorful dinner!
How to Make Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken
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Prepare the Chicken: Place the diced chicken breasts in a 6-quart slow cooker. Add 2 tablespoons of arrowroot flour, along with salt and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
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Mix the Sauce: In a separate bowl, combine coconut aminos, sugar-free ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. If using coconut sugar and honey, add those in too. Stir everything together until thoroughly mixed.
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Combine and Cook: Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, tossing to ensure every piece is nicely coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
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Add Cashews: About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the raw cashews. Mix the remaining tablespoon of arrowroot flour with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth, then add to the slow cooker and stir well.
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Thicken and Finish: Let the dish sit covered for an additional 20 minutes. This allows the cashews to soften slightly and helps thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious consistency.
Optional: Serve over steamed rice or cauliflower rice for a delicious option!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken?
Elevate your meal experience with unforgettable pairings that perfectly complement this easy, flavorful dish.
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Steamed Jasmine Rice: The fluffy texture balances the savory richness of the chicken, making every bite a delight.
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Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb alternative that soaks up the sauce beautifully, perfect for Whole30 or paleo diets.
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Sautéed Broccoli: Fresh, vibrant, and slightly crisp, the subtle bitterness of broccoli contrasts nicely with the sweet sauce.
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Garlic Green Beans: Crunchy and aromatic, these add a lovely freshness that complements the dish without overpowering it.
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Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: Their sweetness brings a delightful contrast to the savory chicken while offering a satisfying crunch.
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Chilled Asian Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad offers a crisp break from the richness of the cashew chicken.
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Sparkling Water with Lime: A bubbly, zesty drink that cleanses the palate beautifully, keeping your meal refreshing.
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Mango Sorbet: End your meal on a sweet note with this cooling treat providing a fruity contrast to the savory main.
Expert Tips for Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken
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Uniform Pieces: Cut the chicken into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking throughout the dish. This helps avoid undercooked or dry pieces.
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Searing for Depth: For extra flavor, quickly sear the chicken in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This caramelization enhances the overall taste.
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Frozen Chicken Caution: If using frozen chicken, increase your cooking time and always check for doneness before serving to ensure food safety.
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Adjusting Sauces: Be mindful of the sauce’s sweetness. Depending on your preferences, you can reduce the coconut sugar or use orange juice instead of honey for a Whole30 swap.
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Ingredient Substitutions: Don’t hesitate to experiment with veggies or nuts to customize your Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken. Broccoli or snap peas can be great additions for nutrition.
Make Ahead Options
These Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken is a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken and coat it with the arrowroot flour, salt, and pepper up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store the coated chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can mix the sauce ingredients (coconut aminos, sugar-free ketchup, rice vinegar, etc.) and refrigerate them separately for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, just combine the chicken and sauce in the slow cooker, and allow it to cook as directed. This way, you’ll ensure a quick, stress-free dinner that retains all its delicious flavor and texture!
How to Store and Freeze Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. This allows you to enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken throughout the week.
Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure the dish is completely cooled before sealing to maintain its quality.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. Add a splash of water if the sauce thickens too much during freezing.
Serving Tip: For the best texture and flavor, serve with fresh veggies or over steamed rice when reheating.
Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful dish and make it uniquely yours!
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Vegetable Boost: Add chopped broccoli or snap peas for a nutritious twist that also enhances texture.
Vegetables don’t just add color; they bring additional vitamins and minerals that pair beautifully with chicken. -
Nutty Alternatives: Swap raw cashews for peanuts or almonds if you prefer a different crunch.
Each nut brings a unique flavor profile and texture that can completely change the dish’s vibe—go wild with your favorites! -
Low-Carb Option: Serve your Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken over cauliflower rice to keep it low-carb.
This not only complements the flavors but also provides a satisfying base that fits into your health goals. -
Sweetness Swap: Replace honey with orange juice for a natural sweetness compliant with Whole30.
This substitution maintains flavor while adhering to your dietary preferences and introduces a fragrant citrus note. -
Spice It Up: Increase crushed red pepper flakes for those who love a spicy kick!
Spice levels can make a dish sing, so don’t hesitate to adjust according to your palate—heat lovers rejoice! -
Herb Twist: Incorporate fresh cilantro or basil just before serving for a fresh herbaceous finish.
Herbs can elevate even the simplest of dishes, adding vibrancy and depth that’s both inviting and refreshing. -
Greens Addition: Stir in spinach or kale during the last 30 minutes of cooking to boost nutrition.
Adding greens is an effortless way to enhance health benefits and add a vibrant pop of color to your meal. -
Coconut Creamy: Drizzle a bit of coconut cream on top for richness if you’re in the mood for indulgence.
This creamy addition complements the tropical notes of the sauce while making the dish feel decadent.
Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken works best for Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken?
I recommend using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the most tender and juicy results. They cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully. If you prefer dark meat, boneless chicken thighs are a great alternative!
How should I store my leftovers?
Absolutely! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Simply make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to retain freshness.
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Can Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken be frozen?
Yes! This dish freezes wonderfully. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just reheat it in the microwave or slowly on the stovetop, adding a little water if the sauce thickened too much.
What should I do if my sauce isn’t thickening?
If your sauce isn’t thickening to your liking, try mixing another tablespoon of arrowroot flour with a little water until smooth, then add it back to the slow cooker and stir. Cover and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes. This should help achieve that luscious consistency you’re aiming for!
Are there any dietary concerns I should consider?
Absolutely! This recipe is Whole30, paleo, gluten-free, and soy-free, making it suitable for many dietary preferences. However, if anyone has nut allergies, you can skip the cashews or replace them with toasted seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar crunch without the nuts.
What types of vegetables can I add to this dish?
Very! Feel free to add vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas to enhance the nutritional profile. Just toss them in with the chicken and sauce before cooking. If you like a bit of crunch, add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking for a delightful add-in!
Savory Slow Cooker Cashew Chicken That'll Wow Your Taste Buds
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Place the diced chicken breasts in a 6-quart slow cooker. Add 2 tablespoons of arrowroot flour, along with salt and black pepper. Toss well to ensure the chicken is evenly coated.
- In a separate bowl, combine coconut aminos, sugar-free ketchup, rice vinegar, sesame oil, minced garlic, and minced ginger. If using coconut sugar and honey, add those in too. Stir everything together until thoroughly mixed.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker, tossing to ensure every piece is nicely coated. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 3-4 hours until the chicken is tender.
- About 20 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the raw cashews. Mix the remaining tablespoon of arrowroot flour with 1 tablespoon of water until smooth, then add to the slow cooker and stir well.
- Let the dish sit covered for an additional 20 minutes. This allows the cashews to soften slightly and helps thicken the sauce, giving it a luscious consistency.