This sesame chicken with cashews and dates is a dinner recipe that’s bursting with flavor and comes together in no time. Combining savory chicken, crunchy cashews, and the natural sweetness of dates, this dish is a delightful twist on classic takeout-style meals.
It’s quick, satisfying, and ideal for busy weeknights.
Why This Dish Stands Out
This recipe reimagines the traditional Taiwanese “Three Cups Chicken” by adding roasted cashews and dates, creating a unique balance of textures and flavors.
The toasted sesame oil brings a nutty richness, while the ginger and garlic add depth. The dates, with their natural sweetness, beautifully complement the savory soy sauce and fiery red chiles.
It’s an elevated yet approachable dinner that takes only 20 minutes to prepare, faster than ordering takeout. It’s perfect for those evenings when you want something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use High Heat: Stir-frying on high heat ensures the chicken gets beautifully browned without overcooking.
- Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh ginger, garlic, and scallions for a more vibrant flavor.
- Timing is Key: Add the dates and cashews toward the end of cooking to maintain their texture.
This recipe works wonderfully with boneless chicken thighs, which stay juicy and tender even under high heat. If you’re looking for a leaner option, chicken breasts can be used, but be careful not to overcook them.
Customizations & Substitutions
This sesame chicken recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to suit different dietary preferences or ingredient availability:
- Vegan Option: Swap chicken for tofu or seitan. Stir-fry as directed and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.
- Nut-Free: Replace cashews with toasted pumpkin seeds for a similar crunch.
- Low-Carb: Skip the rice and serve the dish over cauliflower rice or zoodles.
These customizations make the dish adaptable for a variety of diets while keeping its Mediterranean-inspired essence intact.
Serving Suggestions
This sesame chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice, which soaks up the rich sauce. Alternatively, you can serve it with:
- Brown Rice for a heartier option.
- Quinoa to add a nutty flavor.
- A Simple Side Salad with citrus vinaigrette for a lighter complement.
Finish the dish with a squeeze of fresh lime juice or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of brightness. These little touches elevate the flavors and make the meal even more enjoyable.
Perfect for Gatherings or Meal Prep
Not only is this sesame chicken a hit for dinner, but it’s also great for entertaining or meal prep. The bold flavors make it a crowd-pleaser, while its quick cooking time ensures you can focus on hosting instead of spending hours in the kitchen.
For meal prep, double the recipe and portion it into containers with rice or your favorite grain. The flavors deepen as they sit, making it even more delicious as leftovers.
Why You’ll Love This Dinner Recipe
This sesame chicken with cashews and dates is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. It brings together a variety of flavors and textures for a truly satisfying dish.
With its Mediterranean-inspired twist and weeknight-friendly prep time, it’s bound to become a staple in your rotation.
Make this tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality meal from the comfort of your home!
Sesame Chicken with Cashews & Dates Dinner Recipe
Equipment
- 12-inch skillet or wok
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 1 2- inch piece fresh ginger peeled and thinly sliced into 12 coins
- 8 garlic cloves smashed and peeled
- 1 bunch scallions white and green parts, cut into 2-inch lengths
- 3 to 4 dried red chiles or ½ teaspoon red chile flakes
- ½ cup unsalted roasted cashews
- 6 boneless chicken thighs about 2 pounds, cut into 2-inch chunks
- ⅓ cup rice wine or dry sherry
- 3 tablespoons dark soy sauce or tamari
- 4 pitted dates thinly sliced
- 3 cups fresh basil or cilantro leaves or a combination
- Rice vinegar or fresh lime juice to taste
- Cooked rice for serving
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet or wok over high heat until very hot, at least 2 minutes. Add half the sesame oil and tilt the pan to coat the surface. Once the oil is shimmering, add the ginger, garlic, scallions, and dried red chiles. Stir-fry for 2–3 minutes until the garlic begins to turn golden around the edges.
- Pour in the remaining sesame oil, then add the cashews and chicken chunks. Stir-fry continuously, cooking the chicken until it starts to brown, about 4–5 minutes. Lower the heat if the cashews brown too quickly. Once the chicken is evenly browned, add the rice wine, soy sauce, and sliced dates. Stir well, and allow the mixture to simmer until the sauce reduces to a syrupy consistency and the chicken is cooked through, about 5–7 minutes.
- Toss in the fresh basil or cilantro leaves and stir gently to combine. Adjust the flavor with a splash of rice vinegar or lime juice to your liking. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Notes
- For a spicier version, increase dried chiles or add chili oil.
- Substitute dates with dried apricots or figs for a different flavor.
- Pair with steamed vegetables for a more balanced meal.
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.