Savory Cashew Chicken Fried Rice: A Quick Family Favorite

Last Updated on February 12, 2026 by Antoni Recipes Team

After a long week of juggling work and family, the last thing I want is to whittle away hours in the kitchen. That s where my Quick and Easy Cashew Chicken Fried Rice comes to the rescue! This dish is a treasure trove of flavors and textures, combining tender chicken thighs, nutty cashews, and vibrant veggies, all in one delicious bowl. What s even better? It transforms leftover rice into a scrumptious 30-minute meal that the whole family can enjoy.

Picture this: the nutty aroma of toasted cashews wafting through your kitchen, mingling with the sizzle of fresh garlic and colorful vegetables. It all comes together effortlessly, especially with the help of Marion s Kitchen Cashew Chicken Kit, which adds a rich umami punch without the fuss. Whether you re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to impress guests, this Cashew Chicken Fried Rice is bound to become a family favorite with the added bonus of being quick, easy, and utterly satisfying! Let s dive into this culinary delight!

Why is Cashew Chicken Fried Rice a must-try?

Quick, this dish whips up in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Flavor-packed, the delightful combo of toasted cashews, tender chicken, and vibrant veggies will make your taste buds dance. Versatile, it easily adapts to whatever leftover ingredients you have on hand. Family-friendly, this meal is sure to please both kids and adults alike. And if you re seeking more quick dinner ideas, check out our delicious weeknight meal options!

Cashew Chicken Fried Rice Ingredients

For the Chicken

• Chicken Thigh Fillets Boneless thighs are easy to marinate and grill to perfection.
• Marion s Kitchen Cashew Chicken Meal Kit This kit contains the essential stir-fry sauce and cashews for an authentic taste.

For the Fried Rice

• Cooked Jasmine Rice Day-old rice is ideal for better texture, preventing mushiness.
• Red Capsicum Adds a lovely sweetness; feel free to substitute with bell pepper or other mild varieties.
• Chinese Kale (Gai Lan) Offers a slight bitterness and crunch; bok choy makes a great alternative if needed.
• Garlic Cloves Fresh garlic creates a wonderfully aromatic base for your dish.
• Eggs Provides richness and binds the rice together; can be omitted for a vegan variation.

For Flavor

• Soy Sauce Enhances the umami depth; opt for low-sodium soy sauce if you re watching your salt intake.
• Ground White Pepper Infuses a subtle heat; black pepper can be swapped for a different flavor profile.

For Cooking

• Vegetable Oil A neutral oil works best for frying; feel free to substitute with your preferred cooking oil.
• Toasted Cashews Toasting these enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your fried rice.

Transform your dinner table with this delicious Cashew Chicken Fried Rice, where each bite delivers nutty goodness and a burst of flavor! Enjoy the quick, easy preparation, and watch your family s eyes light up.

How to Make Cashew Chicken Fried Rice

1. Marinate Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine chicken thigh fillets with half of the stir-fry sauce. Let it marinate for 5 minutes to absorb all the delicious flavors.
2. Prepare Sauce Mixture: In the same bowl, whisk together the remaining stir-fry sauce, eggs, soy sauce, and ground white pepper until well combined. This will add richness and flavor to your rice.
3. Toast Cashews: Heat a small frying pan over medium heat. Add cashews and toast for 2 3 minutes, stirring frequently until they turn golden. Setting them aside enhances their nutty aroma.
4. Stir-fry Vegetables: In a wok or large pan over high heat, add vegetable oil. Sauté minced garlic for about 30 seconds before adding capsicum and baby corn. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until the veggies are tender and charred. Toss in the Chinese kale and cook for an additional minute.
5. Cook Rice: Add the marinated chicken and the egg-coated day-old jasmine rice to the mixture in the wok. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, pressing the rice down slightly, allowing it to crisp up and heat through.
6. Finish Dish: Toss in the toasted cashews and give everything a good mix. Serve immediately and enjoy the irresistible blend of flavors and textures.

Optional: Garnish with chopped green onions for a fresh touch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Cashew Chicken Fried Rice

• Use Day-Old Rice: Ensures the rice is dry enough to fry without becoming mushy. Freshly cooked rice might lead to a soggy dish.
• High Heat Cooking: Maintain a high flame while stir-frying to achieve that coveted wok hei flavor, which adds depth to your Cashew Chicken Fried Rice.
• Don t Overcrowd the Pan: Too many ingredients can lower the pan s temperature, resulting in steamed rather than fried rice. Cook in batches if necessary.
• Toast Cashews Perfectly: Keep a close eye on the cashews while toasting; they can go from perfect to burnt very quickly, ruining their delicious crunch.
• Customize Veggies: Feel free to mix in any leftover veggies you have on hand, such as peas or carrots, to enhance nutrition and flavor without extra effort.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish before serving and add more soy sauce or seasonings as needed to maximize flavor!

Cashew Chicken Fried Rice Variations

Feel free to tailor this delightful dish to your family s preferences and pantry staples!

• Protein Swap: Replace chicken thighs with shrimp, tofu, or beef for a different protein experience. Everyone can enjoy a unique flavor twist!
• Vegetable Medley: Add peas, carrots, or whatever veggies you have on hand for extra color and nutrition. Get creative, and let your taste buds guide you!
• Spice it Up: Incorporate chili flakes or a splash of sriracha for an added kick. Perfect for spice lovers craving a little heat with their meal!
• Nutty Alternatives: Try swapping cashews for peanuts or almonds. Each nut offers a new twist, enhancing the texture and flavor profile of your fried rice.
• Grain Choices: Use brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice as a base for different flavors and textures while keeping your dish healthy and wholesome.
• Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like cilantro or basil can be mixed in to brighten the dish. Their aromatic qualities will elevate your culinary experience!
• Coconut Twist: Drizzle a bit of coconut milk into the stir-fry for a rich, creamy texture that adds a tropical vibe to your fried rice.
• Sweet Touch: Stir in some diced pineapple for bursts of sweetness that beautifully complement the savory aspects of the dish. It s a refreshing twist to the traditional recipe!

Storage Tips for Cashew Chicken Fried Rice

• Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will keep your Cashew Chicken Fried Rice fresh and flavorful.
• Freezer: You can freeze this dish by allowing it to cool completely, then transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 1 month.
• Reheating: To reheat, simply place the frozen or refrigerated rice in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water to help steam it, mixing occasionally until heated through.
• Room Temperature: Avoid leaving your Cashew Chicken Fried Rice at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure it s safe to eat.

Make Ahead Options

These Cashew Chicken Fried Rice are a lifesaver for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs and prepare the sauce mixture up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to preserve freshness. Chopping the vegetables and toasting the cashews can also be done beforehand just keep them in separate containers. To maintain the quality, ensure the rice is stored in an airtight container and avoid using fresh rice to prevent sogginess. When it s time to cook, just heat a wok, stir-fry the vegetables for a few minutes, add the marinated chicken and rice, and finish by tossing in the toasted cashews. You ll have a delicious and satisfying meal in no time!

What to Serve with Cashew Chicken Fried Rice?

Elevate your dining experience with complementary sides that bring out the best flavors of this delightful dish.

• Crispy Spring Rolls: These savory rolls add an extra crunch and are perfect for dousing in soy sauce or sweet chili sauce. Their crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the chewy rice and tender chicken.
• Asian Cucumber Salad: Refreshing and light, this salad offers a crisp contrast to the warm fried rice. The tangy vinegar dressing balances out the richness of the dish.
• Steamed Bok Choy: Simple yet nutritious, steamed bok choy brings a soft texture and subtle flavor that complements the robust tastes of the fried rice. Add a drizzle of sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
• Hot and Sour Soup: This hearty soup introduces a spicy and tangy twist, echoing the umami notes from the fried rice while providing warmth and depth to your meal.
• Sesame Green Beans: Sautéed until vibrant and topped with toasted sesame seeds, these green beans deliver a wonderful crunch and nutty flavor that mirrors the cashews in your rice.
• Chilled Edamame: Lightly salted edamame makes for a protein-packed snack that guests can nibble on while enjoying their meal. Its green color adds a fresh pop to the dinner table.
• Mango Sticky Rice: For a delightful contrast, end the meal with sweet mango sticky rice. The creaminess and subtle sweetness will perfectly balance out the savory flavors of the Cashew Chicken Fried Rice.
• Jasmine Tea: A fragrant tea served hot or iced can complement your meal wonderfully, enhancing the overall Asian-inspired dining experience with its light floral notes.

Indulge in these pairings to create a balanced and memorable meal that your family will love!

Cashew Chicken Fried Rice Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for Cashew Chicken Fried Rice?
Absolutely! When selecting vegetables like red capsicum, look for ones that are bright in color without any dark spots or wrinkles. Fresh garlic should be firm and free from sprouts. For chicken thighs, choose boneless cuts that are pink and moist but not slimy. Fresh, high-quality ingredients will enhance the flavor of your fried rice significantly!

How should I store leftover Cashew Chicken Fried Rice?
To keep your leftover Cashew Chicken Fried Rice fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps maintain its flavor and texture. Remember to let it cool completely before sealing, as trapping steam can make the rice soggy.

Can I freeze Cashew Chicken Fried Rice?
Very! To freeze your Cashew Chicken Fried Rice, first, allow it to cool completely. Then, portion the rice into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible. It can be frozen for up to 1 month. When you re ready to enjoy, reheat it in a pan over medium heat, adding a splash of water to revive the rice s moisture, stirring until heated through.

What should I do if my fried rice turns out too soggy?
If your Cashew Chicken Fried Rice ends up soggy, here s a trick! Spread the rice out on a baking sheet and let it cool at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. This allows some moisture to evaporate. Next, reheat it in a hot wok or pan, stirring frequently until it firms up. Using day-old rice is key for the best texture fresh rice just holds too much moisture!

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe regarding allergies?
Absolutely! If you or someone you re serving has nut allergies, you can simply omit the cashews and replace them with toasted sunflower seeds or extra vegetables for crunch. Additionally, if you re concerned about gluten, use a gluten-free soy sauce alternative. Just be sure to check the labels of the stir-fry kit and sauces if gluten allergy is a concern.

What are the best ways to customize Cashew Chicken Fried Rice?
The more the merrier! You can customize this dish in numerous ways. Swap out chicken for shrimp, beef, or tofu for different protein options. Mix in any leftover vegetables you have; peas, corn, or even carrots work wonderfully. And if you re looking for extra heat, feel free to add a dash of sriracha or chili flakes adjust according to your family s spice tolerance!