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Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles and Cashews

728 kcal · 48 g protein · 10 minutes · 1 servings

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Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini Noodles and Cashews

A flavorful and healthy chicken stir-fry featuring tender chicken breast strips, fresh zucchini noodles, crunchy cashews, and a savory sauce with garlic and chili flakes. This dish is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal packed with protein and vibrant flavors.

728 kcal 48 g protein 10 minutes

Ingredients

  • Chicken breast strips 6 oz
  • Zucchini noodles 1.5 cups
  • Cashews 0.25 cup
  • Soy sauce 1 tbsp
  • Sesame oil 1 tsp
  • Garlic 2 cloves
  • Chili flakes 0.5 tsp
  • Vegetable oil 1 tbsp

Method

  1. Prepare Ingredients. Wash the zucchini and spiralize it into noodles if not pre-spiralized. Mince the garlic cloves. Measure out the chicken strips, cashews, soy sauce, sesame oil, and chili flakes.
    Tip: If you don’t have a spiralizer, you can use a vegetable peeler to create thin strips of zucchini.
  2. Toast Cashews. Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the cashews and toast them for about 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden brown and fragrant. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
    Tip: Keep an eye on the cashews as they can burn quickly.
  3. Cook Chicken. In the same skillet, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil and heat over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are cooked through and no longer pink inside.
    Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook the chicken in a single layer for even cooking.
  4. Add Garlic and Chili Flakes. Push the chicken to one side of the pan. Add the minced garlic and chili flakes to the empty side and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
    Tip: Garlic burns easily, so stir quickly and keep the heat moderate.
  5. Add Zucchini Noodles and Sauce. Add the zucchini noodles to the pan with the chicken and garlic. Pour in the soy sauce and drizzle the sesame oil over everything. Stir gently to combine and cook for 2-3 minutes until the zucchini noodles are just tender but still slightly crisp.
    Tip: Avoid overcooking the zucchini noodles to prevent them from becoming mushy.
  6. Combine and Serve. Turn off the heat. Sprinkle the toasted cashews over the stir-fry and gently toss to combine. Transfer to a plate and serve immediately.
    Tip: Serve hot for the best texture and flavor.

Pro tips

  • Use fresh zucchini noodles or make them just before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the chicken briefly in soy sauce and a pinch of garlic before cooking.