I’ve got an incredible Thai Cashew Chicken recipe to share with you that’s perfect for those busy days when you want a delicious homemade meal without the fuss. Picture this: Delicate chicken, crunchy cashews, and a symphony of Thai flavors all in one mouth watering dish.

The best part? It’s not just any chicken recipe; it’s a freezer meal made for your convenience. You can prepare it in advance and have it ready to go whenever you need a quick and satisfying dinner.

Here’s the deal: you toss the whole chicken, some cashews and other ingredients into a crockpot. Then, you whip up a zesty Thai sauce. Pour that sauce over the ingredients in the crockpot, and let the magic happen. If you are preparing this recipe to freeze for later, you do the same exact thing in a bag, and then add in all the sauce ingredients into another bag, and then save for later. It’s that easy.

As the hours pass, the crockpot tenderly transforms this ensemble into a medley of textures and flavors that’ll have you coming back for more. The chicken absorbs all those delicious Thai flavors, and the cashews add a delightful crunch.

This Thai Cashew Chicken recipe is about to become your new go-to for hassle-free and mouth watering meals!

Why you’ll love this Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal

Tasty Thai Flavors
Freezer Meal Versatility
Customizable
Kid-friendly
Cost effective

Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal Recipe

Hannah Stewart

The chicken absorbs all those delicious Thai flavors, and the cashews add a delightful crunch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 4

Total Time 4 10

Course Main Course

Cuisine Asian inspired

Servings Adults

Calories 454 kcal

Equipment

1 Slow Cooker
1 gallon freezer bag
1 Quart freezer bag

Ingredients

2 lb chicken thighs boneless/skinless
1/4 cup water
2 tbsp vinegar
2 tbsp coconut aminos
1 tbsp tapioca starch
1 cloves garlic crushed
1/2 cup raw cashews roughly chopped

Sauce (Whisk together):

2 tbsp vinegar
2 tbsp coconut aminos
1 tbsp tapioca starch
1 clove garlic crushed
1 bunch green onions

Instructions

Freezer prep directions

Prepare a gallon freezer bag, labeling according to your preferred method.
Whisk together the sauce ingredients and add to a snack sized freezer bag, place small bag into quart sized freezer bag and seal.
Add all remaining ingredients into the freezer bag, place the sealed quart sized freezer bag into gallon freezer bag.
Seal bag, removing as much air as possible, and freeze for up to three months.

Slow cooker directions:

Thaw freezer bag in fridge 12-24 hours before cooking.
Set sauce packet aside, removing the packet from the quart freezer bag. (Discard quart freezer bag).
Dump the remaining contents of the freezer bag into a slow cooker.
Cook on low 4-6 hours.
Remove chicken from slow cooker, shred, and place in large serving bowl.
Pour sauce packet over chicken in a bowl and stir together.
Serve over rice and enjoy! Optional: Garnish with green onions, a lime wedge, and/or chopped peanuts.

Instant Pot Directions

Dump the contents of the freezer bag into the Instant Pot, add 1/2 cup chicken broth.
Set to High Pressure for 20 minutes, then allow a 10-minute natural release followed by a quick release.
Remove chicken from slow cooker, shred, and place in a large serving bowl.
Pour sauce packet over chicken in a bowl and stir together.
Serve over rice and enjoy! Optional: Garnish with green onions, a lime wedge, and/or chopped peanuts.

Dietary Adjustments

Make it Gluten-Free:

This recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Make it Dairy-Free:

This recipe is naturally dairy-free.

Freezer Labels

Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal Printable Label

Nutrition

Calories: 454kcalCarbohydrates: 64.9gProtein: 9.7gFat: 9.1gSaturated Fat: 2.3gCholesterol: 28mgSodium: 1471mgFiber: 1.7gSugar: 20.3gVitamin A: -13IUCalcium: 89mgIron: 2mg

Keyword Chicken Recipes, crockpot dinners, freezer meals, Slow cooker Chicken Recipe, Thai Recipes

Equipment Needed to make Thai Chicken Cashew Recipe

1 Slow Cooker
1 gallon freezer bag
1 Quart freezer bag

Ingredients for your Make Ahead Thai Cashew Chicken

2 lb Bone-In Chicken Thighs, no skin*
1/4 cup Water
2 tbsp Vinegar
2 tbsp Coconut Aminos
1 tbsp Tapioca Starch
1 clove Garlic, crushed
1/2 cup Raw Cashews, roughly chopped

Thai Sauce:

2 tbsp Vinegar
2 tbsp Coconut Aminos
1 tbsp Tapioca Starch
1 clove Garlic, crushed
1 bunch Green Onions

How to Make a Freezer Meal Thai Cashew Chicken Recipe

Prep/freezer directions:

Label Freezer bag with Recipe name, cooking directions and expiration date (today’s date plus three months).
Add all main ingredients to the labeled gallon freezer bag.
Add all sauce ingredients to a quart freezer bag.
Set a quart freezer bag into a gallon freezer bag and seal (Remove as much air as possible and freeze for up to three months)

Cooking directions:

Add all the main ingredients into the slow cooker.
Stir and cook on low 4-6 hours
Shred chicken, remove bones and set chicken into serving dish.
Whisk together sauce ingredients
Pour sauce over shredded chicken and mix, if you need extra sauce add some from the slow cooker.
Serve over cauliflower rice and garnish with extra green onions, if desired.

What to serve with your Thai Cashew Chicken Recipe

Sides:

Thai Coconut Rice:
Fresh Thai Papaya Salad
Crispy Vegetable Spring Rolls

Desserts:

Mango Sticky Rice:
Coconut Tapioca Pudding:
Thai Iced Tea Ice Cream

Mocktails:

Thai Basil Lemonade
Lychee Ginger Fizz:
Pineapple Coconut Cooler

Popular Substitutions and Additions

Substitutions:

Chicken Thighs: If you prefer a leaner option, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breast for the bone-in chicken thighs. It will result in a lighter dish while maintaining the delicious flavors.
Coconut Aminos: If you don’t have coconut aminos, you can replace them with low-sodium soy sauce or tamari for a similar savory and umami flavor profile.
Cashews: While cashews are the classic choice for this dish, you can substitute them with other nuts like almonds, peanuts, or even macadamia nuts for a unique twist on texture and flavor.

Additions:

Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and add color to your dish by including vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli florets, or snap peas. Cook them along with the chicken for a well-rounded meal.
Thai Bird’s Eye Chilies: If you enjoy some heat, add sliced Thai bird’s eye chilies to the dish. Adjust the quantity to your preferred level of spiciness.
Fresh Herbs: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or Thai basil as a garnish just before serving. They provide a burst of freshness and aroma to your Thai Cashew Chicken.

These substitutions and additions allow you to customize your Thai Cashew Chicken to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs while maintaining the essence of this flavorful dish. Enjoy your culinary adventure!

How to Reheat and Store Thai Cashew Chicken

Best way to store a Thai Chicken Cashew leftovers?

The best way to store a cooked Thai Chicken Cashew recipe would be to allow the meal to cool completely to room temperature, usually within two hours of cooking.

Once the chicken has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or resealable plastic bag and seal it tightly to prevent air from getting in, as exposure can cause the food to spoil more quickly. Label your container/bag with the recipe and date and store in the refrigerator.

How long will Thai Cashew Chicken Recipe last in the fridge?

If sealed correctly, a Thai Cashew Chicken Recipe will last for 3-5 days in the fridge. Make sure that your refrigerator is set below the 40 degree to ensure safe storage of perishable goods.

Another tip to consider is to put the leftover container in the actual fridge, and not on the door, as the door often experiences fluctuation in temperature because of the closing and opening of the doors

Can I freeze Make Ahead Thai Chicken Cashew

The best part of this recipe is that it can be made into a raw freezer meal. Simply add ingredients for the chicken into a gallon freezer bag, and the sauce ingredients into a quart size bag. Seal the quart bag and remove as much air as possible, then place inside the gallon freezer bag, and remove as much air from that larger bag, and seal properly. Label and store for 3-6 months in the freezer.

If you have already cooked your meal, have leftovers and want to freeze the leftovers, allow your chicken leftovers time to cool, put your leftovers into a gallon freezer safe bag, remove the air, and seal.

How to Reheat Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal?

The best way to reheat your thai cashew chicken recipe is to portion out the part that you would like to reheat, and then either microwave or heat up slowly on your stovetop. If you are bringing the recipe out of the freezer, allow the recipe to thaw overnight in the fridge, then either microwave your leftovers or use the stovetop to bring the meal to a warmer state.

If you are cooking the recipe from a raw state, thaw overnight in the fridge, then dump into the crockpot and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Make Ahead Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal FAQs

Can I make Thai Cashew chicken ahead of time?

Yes! This recipe makes a great Make Ahead meal. In order to prepare this recipe for a raw freezer meal, label a gallon freezer bag with the recipe name, cooking directions and expiration date. Then, add all the main ingredients into the labeled gallon freezer bag. Take the quart freezer bag, and add all the sauce ingredients to that bag. Remove as much air from the quart bag, and place in the gallon freezer bag. Then remove as much air from the gallon bag, seal, and freeze for up to three months.

H3: Does Thai Cashew Chicken have a lot of carbs?

The carb content in cashew chicken can vary depending on the specific recipe and ingredients used, particularly in the sauce. Let’s break it down: Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, the main protein in cashew chicken, are naturally low in carbohydrates. They are a great choice for those looking to reduce carb intake.

Cashews: Cashews, while delicious and nutritious, contain some carbs, but they are also a good source of healthy fats and protein. The carb content in cashews is relatively moderate compared to other nuts.

Sauce: The sauce is where you might find carbohydrates. Many traditional cashew chicken recipes include ingredients like soy sauce or oyster sauce, which can contain small amounts of carbs. If you’re watching your carb intake, you can look for low-sodium soy sauce or use alternatives like coconut aminos or tamari, which have lower carb content.

Thickening Agents: Tapioca starch or cornstarch is often used to thicken the sauce. While these starches do contain carbs, the amount used is typically minimal per serving.
In summary, cashew chicken can be customized to be lower in carbs by making ingredient choices that align with your dietary preferences.

Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs?

You can absolutely use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs in your cashew chicken recipe. These leaner cuts of chicken are a popular choice for those who prefer a lighter dish.

When using boneless chicken in the crockpot cooking method, leave the chicken whole to ensure even cooking and maximum flavor absorption from the sauce. Chicken breasts, in particular, have a mild and slightly sweet flavor that pairs wonderfully with the savory and nutty elements of cashew chicken.

Whether you choose breasts or thighs, boneless and skinless options are convenient and cook relatively quickly, making them ideal for a quicker preparation of this delicious dish.

What kind of vegetables can I add to my Thai cashew chicken?

Adding vegetables to your cashew chicken not only enhances the nutritional value of the dish but also introduces a colorful and textural variety that complements the savory and nutty flavors.

Some common vegetables to consider are: Broccoli not only adds a burst of green but also offers a satisfying crunch and earthy flavor. Snap peas provide a delightful crispness and a touch of sweetness that balances the dish. Sliced or julienned carrots introduce a hint of natural sweetness and a pleasing crunch.

Feel free to customize your cashew chicken with your favorite vegetables, creating a personalized version that suits your taste preferences and dietary requirements.

Where are cashews native to?

Cashew trees (Anacardium occidentale) are native to northeastern Brazil. They were initially discovered by Portuguese explorers during the 16th century. These tropical trees are renowned for their distinct growth pattern—bearing cashew nuts on the end of juicy, pear-shaped cashew apples.

Cashews spread from Brazil to other parts of South America and eventually made their way to Africa and Asia through trade routes. Today, cashews are widely cultivated in tropical regions around the world, including countries like India, Vietnam, Nigeria, Ivory Coast, and Indonesia, making them a significant global crop and a popular ingredient in a wide range of culinary dishes.

What’s the difference between almond chicken and cashew chicken?

While both almond chicken and cashew chicken are popular Asian-American dishes, they differ primarily in the type of nuts used and their texture. In almond chicken, as the name suggests, almonds are the star ingredient. Typically, sliced or slivered almonds are added to the dish, contributing a delicate crunch and a mild almond flavor.

On the other hand, cashew chicken features cashews, which are generally larger, creamier, and have a distinct sweet and nutty taste. The cashews are often roasted before being added to the dish, providing a richer and more pronounced nutty flavor. B

oth dishes are beloved for their combination of tender chicken, savory sauces, and nutty elements, but it’s the choice of nuts that sets them apart.

Is cashew keto-friendly?

Cashews, while nutritious, contain more carbohydrates than some other nuts commonly associated with keto diets, like almonds and macadamia nuts. A 1-ounce (28-gram) serving of cashews typically contains around 9 grams of net carbs. For individuals following a strict ketogenic diet, this amount of carbs may need to be managed carefully.

However, cashews can still fit into a keto-friendly diet when consumed in moderation. You can enjoy them as a snack or as an ingredient in recipes like cashew chicken by being mindful of portion sizes.

It’s important to consider your daily carb limit and adjust your cashew intake accordingly to maintain ketosis.

What kind of meat to use in Thai Cashew Chicken?

The most common meat used in cashew chicken recipes is chicken itself, typically boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. These cuts are favored for their tenderness and ability to absorb the flavors of the sauce.

However, you can also experiment with other proteins if you prefer variations. Tofu is a popular choice for vegetarians and vegans, providing a similar texture to chicken when properly prepared.

Shrimp is another option, adding a seafood twist to the dish, although shrimp do not typically cook well in a crockpot. For those seeking a heartier option, thinly sliced beef can also work well. Ultimately, the choice of meat depends on your dietary preferences and the flavors you want to explore in your cashew chicken.

What kind of cashews should I use?

When it comes to choosing cashews for your cashew chicken recipe, you have two primary options: raw or roasted cashews. Each type offers a distinct flavor and texture, allowing you to tailor your dish to your preferences.

Raw cashews are softer, creamier, and have a milder flavor. They can be a great choice if you want the cashews to absorb the flavors of the sauce and retain their natural sweetness.

Roasted Cashews: Roasted cashews are firmer and have a deeper, nuttier flavor due to the roasting process. They add a delightful crunch to your dish and contribute a richer, toasted nuttiness that complements the savory elements of cashew chicken.

Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal Recipe

Why you’ll love this Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal

Nutrition

Equipment Needed to make Thai Chicken Cashew Recipe

Ingredients for your Make Ahead Thai Cashew Chicken

Thai Sauce:

How to Make a Freezer Meal Thai Cashew Chicken Recipe

Prep/freezer directions:

Cooking directions:

What to serve with your Thai Cashew Chicken Recipe

Sides:

Desserts:

Mocktails:

Popular Substitutions and Additions

Substitutions:

Additions:

How to Reheat and Store Thai Cashew Chicken

Best way to store a Thai Chicken Cashew leftovers?

How long will Thai Cashew Chicken Recipe last in the fridge?

Can I freeze Make Ahead Thai Chicken Cashew

How to Reheat Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal?

Make Ahead Thai Cashew Chicken Freezer Meal FAQs

Other Chicken Recipes You’ll love

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