Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Say goodbye to bland meals and hello to an irresistible dish bursting with flavor, texture, and a touch of sweetness.
This sesame chicken with cashews and dates recipe is the ultimate answer to your dinner cravings. It’s quick, vibrant, and perfect for those busy evenings when you want something easy yet satisfying.
Why This Recipe is a Dinner Staple
This recipe blends bold Asian-inspired flavors with Mediterranean touches, making it a unique addition to your dinner repertoire. Toasted sesame oil forms the base, infusing the dish with a nutty richness that complements the tender chicken.
Roasted cashews add crunch, while slivers of dates bring a natural sweetness that balances the heat of dried chilies. The result? A dish that’s as exciting to eat as it is to cook.
What sets this recipe apart is how quickly it comes together. In just 20 minutes, you can create a meal that tastes like it took hours.
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Perfect for weeknights or last-minute dinner plans, this is a recipe you’ll return to again and again.
Pro Tips for Perfect Sesame Chicken
Want to elevate this dinner recipe even more? Keep these tips in mind:
- Use skin-on chicken thighs for extra flavor, but boneless options work just as well for convenience.
- Adjust the spice level by varying the amount of dried chilies or opting for red chili flakes.
- Swap the dates for dried apricots or figs if you want to try a different sweet element.
- Don’t skip the fresh herbs. A sprinkle of basil or cilantro at the end brings freshness to the dish.
These small adjustments make the recipe versatile and easy to tailor to your preferences or dietary needs.
Pairings & Serving Suggestions
This sesame chicken recipe pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or nutty brown rice for a complete meal. For a lower-carb option, serve it over cauliflower rice or a bed of sautéed spinach.
Want to impress at a dinner party? Add a side of roasted vegetables like broccoli or zucchini for a colorful, wholesome spread.
Don’t forget the final touch—fresh lime juice or a drizzle of rice vinegar adds a zesty kick that ties all the flavors together.
Perfect for Meal Prep
Looking to save time during the week? This recipe is an excellent candidate for meal prep. Cook a double batch and portion it into containers for quick lunches or dinners.
The flavors deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
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To keep things fresh, store the chicken separately from the rice and any greens. Reheat in a skillet to preserve the dish’s texture and flavor.
A Dinner Recipe You’ll Crave
With its fusion of bold, spicy, and sweet flavors, this sesame chicken with cashews and dates is a dinner recipe that hits all the right notes. It’s easy enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough for guests.
Ready to transform your dinner game? Give this recipe a try tonight and savor the delicious results!

Sesame Chicken with Cashews & Dates Recipe for Dinner
Equipment
- 12-inch skillet or wok
Ingredients
- 4 tablespoons toasted sesame oil
- 2- inch piece fresh ginger peeled and sliced into 12 thin coins
- 8 garlic cloves smashed and peeled
- 1 bunch scallions about 8, cut into 2-inch lengths
- 3 to 4 dried red chilies or ½ teaspoon red chili 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
For Serving:
- 3 cups fresh basil or cilantro leaves or a combination
- Rice vinegar or fresh lime juice to taste
- Cooked rice
Instructions
- Preheat a large skillet or wok on high heat for at least 2 minutes until very hot. Pour in 2 tablespoons of sesame oil and tilt the wok to spread the oil evenly. When the oil is hot and begins to thin, add the ginger slices, garlic cloves, scallions, and dried chilies. Stir-fry for about 2 to 3 minutes, or until the garlic edges are lightly golden and fragrant.
- Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of sesame oil, along with the roasted cashews and chicken pieces. Stir-fry for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the chicken starts to brown. If the cashews begin to darken too quickly, lower the heat slightly. Pour in the rice wine, soy sauce, and sliced dates. Stir the mixture and let it simmer for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken to a syrupy texture while the chicken cooks through.
- Stir in the fresh basil or cilantro just before serving, and adjust the flavor with a splash of rice vinegar or a squeeze of lime juice, if desired. Serve hot over freshly steamed rice.
Notes
- Substitute tamari for soy sauce if gluten-free options are preferred.
- Adjust the number of chilies or chili flakes to modify the heat level.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated, though the sauce may thicken further. Add a splash of water while reheating to adjust consistency.
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.