Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken (Copycat)

If you’re a fan of the Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken, you’re in luck! This copycat recipe brings the delicious flavors of this popular dish right to your kitchen. It’s a perfect combination of spicy, savory, and crunchy, making it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

• Great flavors: The combination of spicy soy-sherry sauce, tender chicken, and crunchy cashews creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
• Quick prep time: With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can have this dish ready in no time.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch of this Spicy Cashew Chicken and enjoy it throughout the week for quick and tasty meals.

Ingredient Notes:

• Canola or vegetable oil: Used for frying the chicken.
• Chicken breast: Cut into bite-sized chunks for a juicy and tender texture.
• Seasoned Rice Flour: Coats the chicken for a crispy exterior.
• Rice Flour Batter: Gives the chicken a light and crispy coating.
• Spicy Soy-Sherry Sauce: Adds a flavorful and spicy kick to the dish.
• Cashews: Provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Green onions: Adds freshness and color to the dish.
• Seasoned Rice Flour: A mix of rice flour, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and baking powder.
• Rice Flour Batter: A blend of rice flour, all-purpose flour, kosher salt, black pepper, and ice water.
• Spicy Soy-Sherry Sauce: Includes hoisin sauce, soy sauce, sherry wine, red wine vinegar, Sriracha sauce, sugar, garlic, and crushed red chili flakes.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Coat chicken in seasoned rice flour.
2. Dip chicken in rice flour batter.
3. Fry chicken until crispy.
4. Toss chicken with spicy soy-sherry sauce.
5. Add cashews and green onions.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Helpful Tips:

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the chicken for a crispy exterior.
• Adjust the spice level of the sauce to suit your taste preferences.
• Swap cashews for peanuts or almonds for a different twist.

Expert Tips for the Best Results:

1. Marinate the chicken in the spicy soy-sherry sauce for extra flavor.
2. Double fry the chicken for an even crispier texture.
3. Garnish with fresh cilantro or sesame seeds for a pop of color and flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this Spicy Cashew Chicken with steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal. Pair it with a side of stir-fried vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced and satisfying dish.

Storage and Reheating Tips:

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
   Yes, you can substitute tofu or cauliflower for the chicken.
2. How spicy is this dish?
   You can adjust the spice level by adding more or less Sriracha sauce.
3. Can I use pre-made rice flour or batter?
   While homemade is best, you can use store-bought versions for convenience.
4. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the components separately and assemble them when ready to eat.

Conclusion:

Indulge in the flavors of the Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken with this easy-to-follow copycat recipe. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out!

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