When the aroma of roasted chicken mingles with the nutty scent of cashews, you know something magical is happening in your kitchen. Picture tender pieces of chicken, beautifully glazed with a sweet and savory sauce, all resting on a bed of vibrant vegetables waiting to be devoured. Gnocchi with Cherry Tomatoes Pesto Chicken and Tomatoes That’s what you get with this Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) recipe a delightful dish that sings comfort and flavor.
I still remember the first time I made this dish. It was one of those chaotic weeknights when takeout seemed like the only answer. But instead, I decided to channel my inner chef and whip up something that felt just as indulgent. As the chicken roasted, the tantalizing aroma wafted through my home, turning heads and hearts alike. Now, this vibrant meal is always on repeat during busy weeks and family gatherings.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken is a time-saver perfect for meal prep enthusiasts while packing a punch in flavor.
- The combination of sweet, savory, and nutty flavors creates an irresistible taste sensation.
- It’s visually stunning with its colorful veggies and golden-brown chicken pieces.
- Versatile enough for weeknight dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead!
Ingredients for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) For more inspiration, check out this chicken burrito bowls recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: I recommend using thighs for their juiciness; they’re more forgiving than breasts when it comes to cooking.
- Cashews: Opt for unsalted ones since they will soak up the flavors of the sauce beautifully without overwhelming saltiness.
- Bell Peppers: Choose a mix of colors red, yellow, and green not just for vibrancy but also for a range of flavors.
- Broccoli Florets: Fresh or frozen works; they add a satisfying crunch and nutritional boost to your meal prep.
For the Sauce:
- Soy Sauce: Low-sodium soy sauce helps control saltiness while still packing that umami punch every dish craves.
- Honey: This adds a lovely sweetness; feel free to swap it out for maple syrup if you’re looking for a vegan option.
- Garlic: Fresh minced garlic elevates the dish’s aromatics; don’t skimp on this one!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep)
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it’s heating up, grab your trusty baking sheet and line it with parchment paper for easy cleanup.
Step 2: Prepare Your Chicken
In a mixing bowl, toss boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and half of your soy sauce mixture until well coated. Feel free to channel your inner Gordon Ramsay while doing this just avoid getting too dramatic!
Step 3: Chop Those Veggies
Chop up your bell peppers into bite-sized pieces and break your broccoli into florets. Toss them onto the baking sheet alongside your marinated chicken.
Step 4: Whip Up that Sauce
In a small bowl, mix together any remaining soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and some crushed red pepper flakes if you’re feeling spicy! Drizzle that heavenly concoction over everything on the baking sheet.
Step 5: Sprinkle on Some Cashews
Now it’s time for the star ingredient! Scatter those cashews generously over the chicken and veggies. Can you smell it already?
Step 6: Roast Away!
Pop that sheet pan into your preheated oven and roast everything for about 25-30 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (75°C).
Transfer to plates and drizzle with sauce for the perfect finishing touch. Serve hot or let cool before packing away into meal prep containers this dish tastes great reheated too!
And there you have it a delightful Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) that’s as simple as it is scrumptious! Your taste buds will thank you every time you dig into these flavorful bites throughout your busy week ahead!
You Must Know
- This amazing sheet pan cashew chicken (meal prep) offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. Spread the chicken and veggies evenly on the sheet pan, ensuring they are not overcrowded for even cooking. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown, then toss in cashews during the last five minutes for a delightful crunch.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re feeling adventurous. Toss in your favorite vegetables, like bell peppers or broccoli, and play with spices think ginger, garlic, or even a splash of soy sauce to amp up the flavor!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. To reheat, simply place them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, preserving that delicious texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfect results, ensure your chicken pieces are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Consider marinating overnight to enhance flavor.
- Lastly, don’t skip on those cashews; they add a delightful crunch!
I still remember the first time I made this dish. My friends devoured it within minutes and insisted I open a restaurant. Who knew sheet pan cashew chicken (meal prep) could turn me into a culinary superstar?
FAQs :
What are the main ingredients in Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep)?
The primary ingredients for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) include chicken breast, cashews, bell peppers, broccoli, and a mix of savory sauces such as soy sauce and sesame oil. These components come together to create a flavorful dish that is not only delicious but also healthy. Sheet Pan Teriyaki Chicken You can customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This recipe is perfect for meal prepping and can be easily stored for later use.
How long does it take to prepare Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep)?
Preparing Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) typically takes about 15 minutes for chopping and marinating the ingredients. Once everything is ready, the cooking time in the oven is around 25-30 minutes. In total, you can expect to spend about 45 minutes from start to finish. This makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights when you want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Can I make Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) ahead of time! In fact, this dish is ideal for meal prep because it stores well in the refrigerator. After cooking, allow it to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers. You can keep it in the fridge for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage. Just reheat it in the oven or microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Is Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can easily adapt Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) to be gluten-free by using gluten-free soy sauce or tamari instead of regular soy sauce. Additionally, ensure that any other sauces or marinades you use are also gluten-free. Cilantro Lime Chicken This way, you can still enjoy this delicious meal while adhering to your dietary restrictions without compromising on flavor.
Conclusion for Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) :
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep) is a fantastic option for anyone looking to simplify their weeknight meals while enjoying great flavors. The combination of tender chicken and crunchy cashews, along with vibrant vegetables, creates a balanced dish that’s easy to prepare ahead of time. With minimal prep and cook time, this meal packs nutrition into every bite. Don’t forget that this dish is versatile; feel free to swap out veggies or adjust seasonings based on your taste preferences. Enjoy hassle-free meal prep with this delightful recipe!
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken (Meal Prep)
Sheet Pan Cashew Chicken is a vibrant, one-pan meal that brings together juicy chicken thighs, crunchy cashews, and colorful vegetables all enveloped in a savory-sweet glaze. Perfect for busy weeknights, this easy-to-make recipe requires minimal cleanup while delivering maximum flavor. In just 45 minutes, you can enjoy a satisfying dish that pleases everyone at the table, making it ideal for meal prepping or family gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup unsalted cashews
- 2 bell peppers (mixed colors), chopped
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce
- ¼ cup honey (or maple syrup for a vegan option)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, toss chicken thighs with salt, pepper, and half of the soy sauce mixture until well coated.
- Chop bell peppers and broccoli into bite-sized pieces; add them to the baking sheet alongside the marinated chicken.
- In a small bowl, mix remaining soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, and optional red pepper flakes; drizzle over chicken and veggies.
- Scatter cashews across the top; roast for 25-30 minutes until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve hot or let cool before storing in meal prep containers.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (250g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Keywords: - Swap chicken for tofu or shrimp for variation. - Use your favorite vegetables based on availability. - Marinate chicken overnight for enhanced flavor.
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