Cashew Chicken

Treat your family and friends to the delightful flavors of Cashew Chicken—a chicken-and-rice casserole seasoned with ground ginger and adorned with crunchy cashews. Bonnie Devries from Brainerd, Minnesota, shares this mouthwatering recipe that showcases her passion for cooking and baking. With its combination of tender chicken, nutritious broccoli, and flavorful seasonings, this casserole promises to be a hit at any gathering. Whether served for a comforting family dinner or shared with friends during a special occasion, this casserole is bound to become a cherished favorite in your repertoire of delicious dishes.

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cups frozen broccoli cuts
• 1¾ cups boiling water
• 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
• 1 jar (6 ounces) sliced mushrooms, drained
• 1 tablespoon chicken bouillon granules
• ½ to 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Pepper to taste
• ¾ cup salted cashews, divided

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a large bowl, combine the first nine ingredients (chicken, onion, frozen broccoli, boiling water, rice, sliced mushrooms, chicken bouillon granules, ground ginger, and pepper).
2. Transfer the mixture to a greased shallow 1½-qt. baking dish.
3. Cover the dish and bake it at 375° F for 45-55 minutes or until the rice becomes tender, and the chicken is no longer pink.
4. Stir in ½ cup of the salted cashews to add a delightful crunch to the casserole.
5. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of cashews over the casserole to enhance its presentation.

YIELD: 4 servings

PREP/BAKE TIME: 10 minutes (preparation) + 45-55 minutes (baking)

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Grease the baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
• Adjust the amount of ground ginger according to your personal preference for the level of spiciness.

TIPS:

• For added convenience, use pre-cut frozen broccoli to save time on preparation.
• Consider using chicken broth instead of water for a richer flavor in the casserole.
• If you prefer a touch of heat, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to the casserole.

In conclusion, Cashew Chicken is a delightful chicken-and-rice casserole that reflects Bonnie Devries’ passion for cooking and baking. With a medley of tender chicken, wholesome broccoli, and aromatic seasonings, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will impress your family and friends.

The marriage of flavors and textures in this dish is simply divine. The ground ginger adds a hint of spiciness that perfectly complements the tender chicken, while the crunchy cashews add a delightful contrast to the soft rice and vegetables.

This casserole is not only delicious but also a convenient choice for busy cooks. The simple one-dish preparation allows for minimal cleanup, making it an ideal option for weeknight dinners or potluck gatherings.

Embrace the versatility of Cashew Chicken by customizing it with your favorite ingredients. You can add colorful bell peppers or sliced carrots for a burst of color and added nutrients. The possibilities are endless, making this casserole a fantastic canvas for your culinary creativity.

So, indulge in the heartwarming flavors of Cashew Chicken and delight in the compliments it will surely bring. Whether served for a comforting family dinner or shared with friends during a special occasion, this casserole is bound to become a cherished favorite in your repertoire of delicious dishes.