Dinner

Cashew Chicken with Noodles Recipe

ByHugo Harnd November 10, 2025November 10, 2025

Introduction

Cashew Chicken with Noodles is a flavorful and satisfying dish that combines tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and silky rice noodles in a savory sauce. This easy recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner that tastes like takeout.

The image shows a black pan filled with a noodle dish placed on a wooden board over a white marbled surface. The dish has three main layers: the bottom layer consists of light beige flat noodles, slightly glossy and loosely arranged; the middle layer has golden-brown cooked chicken pieces scattered all over, mixed with bright green and white green onion stalks; the top layer is sprinkled with beige cashew nuts and small black sesame seeds, adding texture and contrast. The pan handle is visible on the top right, and the overall look is warm and fresh. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

8 ounces uncooked thick rice noodles
1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
2 tablespoons cornstarch
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cubed
1 tablespoon peanut oil
1 tablespoon sesame oil
6 green onions, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 cup unsalted cashews
2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
Toasted sesame seeds, optional

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the rice noodles according to the package directions, then drain and set aside.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, cornstarch, and minced garlic. Add the cubed chicken and toss to coat evenly.
Step 3: Heat the peanut oil and sesame oil in a large cast-iron or heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken mixture and sauté until the chicken is no longer pink.
Step 4: Stir in the green onions and cook for an additional minute.
Step 5: Add the drained noodles to the skillet, then stir in the cashews and sweet chili sauce. Heat everything through, mixing well to combine the flavors.
Step 6: Serve immediately, topped with toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Tips & Variations

For extra veggies, add sliced bell peppers or snap peas during the final cooking step.
Substitute chicken with firm tofu for a vegetarian version.
If you like it spicier, increase the amount of sweet chili sauce or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Use low-sodium soy sauce to control the saltiness of the dish.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Adding a splash of water or broth during reheating can help keep the noodles from drying out.