Easy Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken

This sheet pan cashew chicken recipe is my secret weapon for nights when I need something comforting fast but do not want to skimp on flavor or nutrition. Everything roasts together for easy prep and even easier cleanup, delivering juicy chicken, crisp veggies, and that irresistible sweet savory sauce.

I first made this dish after a long soccer practice with my kids and it has been our go to meal for busy weeknights ever since. Even picky eaters devour it.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: offers lean protein and remains tender when roasted Choose fresh and firm fillets for best results
• Cashews: bring that signature crunch and toasty nutty taste Opt for unsalted raw cashews so they do not overpower the sauce
• Bell peppers: add color and natural sweetness Use a mix of red green yellow or orange Buy firm smooth peppers for optimum freshness
• Soy sauce: adds depth and umami Tamari or coconut aminos work perfectly if you need gluten free or lower sodium options
• Honey: gives the sauce a sticky sweetness Local raw honey is ideal If vegan use agave or maple syrup for a similar effect

Step by Step Instructions

Prep the Ingredients:

Cut chicken into even bite sized cubes for uniform cooking Slice bell peppers into strips or chunks Pat the cashews dry if needed

Mix the Marinade:

Combine soy sauce honey and a splash of water in a bowl Whisk until the honey dissolves and everything is glossy

Marinate the Chicken:

Add chicken to the marinade and toss until fully coated Set aside for at least 15 minutes The longer you marinate the deeper the flavor

Arrange on the Sheet Pan:

Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Place chicken pieces and peppers on a lined sheet pan in a single layer Scatter cashews over everything

Roast Until Golden:

Insert pan into the center of the oven Roast for about 20 to 25 minutes Stir halfway through so chicken and peppers caramelize on all sides Watch closely toward the end so nuts do not burn

Broil for Extra Color:

If you like a bit of char turn on the broiler for the last 2 minutes but keep an eye on it to prevent burning

Save

Cashews always remind me of visiting my grandmother who loved adding roasted nuts to everything She believed it turned any meal special My kids now beg for extra crunchy bits when we make this together

Storage Tips

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days The sauce may thicken as it cools so add a splash of water or broth before reheating to keep everything saucy and tender A quick blast in the microwave or a few minutes in a hot oven revives the texture perfectly

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap chicken breast for boneless thighs if you crave more flavor For a plant based version use extra firm tofu patted dry and cut into cubes Almonds and peanuts step in well for cashews and a rainbow of seasonal veggies keep things interesting Zucchini snap peas or mushrooms work wonderfully

Serving Suggestions

Spoon the roasted chicken cashew and veggies over steamed jasmine rice brown rice or fluffy quinoa A sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds adds freshness and crunch For extra greens serve with a simple side salad or roasted broccoli

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different nut instead of cashews?

Yes, almonds or peanuts work well for crunch and nutty flavor. Adjust for potential seasoning differences.

→ How do I keep the chicken tender?

Marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes and avoid overcooking. Choose uniform pieces for even roasting.

→ What can I substitute for soy sauce?

Tamari offers a gluten-free option, while coconut aminos has a milder flavor and lower sodium content.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative for the protein?

Swap the chicken for tofu to make a meatless, still hearty, sheet pan meal. Adjust bake time as needed.

→ Do different bell pepper colors change the flavor?

Yes. Red, yellow, and orange peppers are sweeter; green peppers add a mild bitterness for variety.

→ How can I get more browning on the ingredients?

Preheat the oven thoroughly and avoid crowding the pan. Stir ingredients halfway for even bronzing.