Hey there, food lovers! Let me tell you about a recipe that's become a total weeknight staple in my house: Zucchini Noodles with Chicken and Cashew Stir-fry. I stumbled upon this beauty one evening when I was desperately searching for a quick, healthy, and satisfying dinner. I was tired of the same old boring salads...this was a game changer!
This dish is all about fresh, vibrant flavors and textures. The zucchini noodles (zoodles!) are surprisingly hearty and satisfying; they're low-carb and perfect for a light meal. The chicken adds protein, while the cashews offer a delightful crunch and richness. It’s a beautiful balance.
Required Equipments
- Large skillet or wok
- Spiralizer or vegetable peeler
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
Zucchini-Noodles-with-Chicken-and-Cashew-Stir-fry
This vibrant and healthy zucchini noodle stir-fry with chicken and cashews is a quick, easy, and incredibly delicious weeknight meal. Get ready for a flavor explosion!
⏳ Yield & Time
Yield: 2 servings
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time:
🍽 Ingredients
📖 Instructions
- First, prep your zucchini. If using a spiralizer, create zucchini noodles. If using a vegetable peeler, create long ribbons. Set aside.
- Next, slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season generously with salt and pepper. This is crucial for flavor!
- Heat your wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil. Once hot, add the chicken and stir-fry until cooked through and slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed.
- While the chicken cooks, chop your garlic and ginger. Once the chicken is almost done, add the minced garlic and ginger to the pan. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Don't burn the garlic!
- Toss in the zucchini noodles. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until they're slightly softened but still have a nice bite. Don't overcook them; they should retain some texture.
- Add the cashews to the pan. Stir to combine everything. If using roasted cashews, do this towards the end to prevent burning.
- Taste and adjust seasonings. A little more salt and pepper might be needed, or perhaps a squeeze of lime juice for extra zing!
- Serve immediately. Garnish with chopped green onions or sesame seeds for extra visual appeal (and flavor!).
📝 Notes
- Feel free to experiment with different spices! Red pepper flakes would add a nice kick.
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, ginger, and garlic for 30 minutes before cooking.
- If you don't have fresh ginger, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
🍎 Nutrition
Calories: 350kcal
Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 5g
Calcium: 30mg
