If you’ve ever craved that perfect balance of crispy, spicy, and nutty flavors, then you are going to fall head over heels for the Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken Recipe. This dish brings together tender chicken chunks coated in a delicate yet crispy rice flour batter, tossed in a vibrant, spicy soy-sherry sauce, and finished off with crunchy cashews and fresh green onions. Each bite bursts with layers of texture and flavor that feel both indulgent and comforting, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting this dish just right comes down to a few simple but essential ingredients, each chosen to build the signature crunch, spice, and depth of flavor in the Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken Recipe. From the perfectly seasoned rice flour to the spicy soy-sherry sauce, every element plays a vital role.
- Chicken breast (1 ½ pounds): Choose fresh, lean chicken cut into bite-sized pieces for the best texture.
- Cashews (8 oz): Whole cashews provide a satisfying crunch and add a rich nuttiness.
- Green onions (6, cut into ¼-inch pieces): These add a burst of fresh, mild onion flavor and vibrant color.
- Canola or vegetable oil (⅓ cup): For frying, this neutral oil ensures a crispy, golden coating without overpowering the dish.
- Rice flour (various amounts): Used both for battering and seasoning, it contributes to that coveted light and crunchy crust.
- All-purpose flour (¼ cup): Helps achieve the right batter texture when combined with rice flour.
- Kosher salt, ground black pepper, paprika, baking powder: These seasonings balance and enhance the flavor and help with the crispiness.
- Hoisin sauce (1 cup): Brings a sweet and savory depth to the soy-sherry sauce.
- Soy sauce (¼ cup): Adds umami and a salty kick to the sauce.
- Apple cider vinegar or white grape juice (¼ cup): Provides tang and brightness.
- Rice vinegar (2 tbsp): Enhances the sauce with acidity and complexity.
- Sriracha sauce (1 tbsp): The perfect amount of heat to make the dish exciting but not overwhelming.
- Granulated sugar (¼ cup): Balances the heat and acidity with sweetness.
- Fresh garlic (2 oz, minced): Adds warmth and aromatic intensity.
- Crushed red chili flakes (¼ tsp): Boosts the spiciness just a bit more for that signature fire.
How to Make Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken Recipe
Step 1: Make the Seasoned Rice Flour
Start by combining the rice flour, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and baking powder in a bowl. This seasoned flour mixture will ensure your chicken has that perfect savory base and helps the final crust develop a delicate texture that holds onto the sauce beautifully.
Step 2: Create the Rice Flour Batter
In a separate bowl, mix rice flour, all-purpose flour, salt, and pepper together, then slowly whisk in the ice water. Keeping the batter cold is crucial here—it helps create a light and crispy coating once fried, giving the chicken an amazing crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the tender meat inside.
Step 3: Prepare the Spicy Soy-Sherry Sauce
Whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar (or white grape juice), rice vinegar, sriracha, granulated sugar, minced garlic, and crushed red chili flakes until smooth. This sauce is the star of the show—it’s tangy, sweet, spicy, and perfectly balanced to coat the chicken without overpowering it.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken
Toss your chicken chunks in the seasoned rice flour to give them that initial layer, then dip into the cold batter. Carefully fry them in heated canola oil for about 3 minutes on each side until they turn a gorgeous golden brown. This method guarantees a crispy exterior while keeping the chicken juicy and tender inside.
Step 5: Add Sauce and Cashews
Once your chicken is perfectly fried, add the spicy soy-sherry sauce, cashews, and green onions to the pan. Toss everything together over medium heat for just about a minute so the sauce thickens and clings to each piece, while the cashews soak up those incredible flavors. This step really brings everything to life.
Step 6: Serve
For an optional finishing touch, sprinkle sesame seeds and fresh parsley on top. Serve immediately to enjoy the full crunch and lively flavors of the Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken Recipe at its peak.
How to Serve Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds adds a subtle nuttiness and visual appeal, while fresh parsley brightens the dish with its herbal aroma. These small touches elevate the dish, making it feel restaurant-quality in your own kitchen.
Side Dishes
This spicy cashew chicken pairs beautifully with simple steamed white or jasmine rice to soak up its flavorful sauce. You can also serve it alongside stir-fried vegetables or a crisp Asian slaw for a refreshing contrast in textures and flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the chicken over a bed of crispy fried rice noodles for extra crunch, or wrap it in fresh lettuce leaves with a drizzle of extra sauce for a fun, hand-held style bite. Either way, this recipe is versatile and makes entertaining a breeze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The sauce ensures the chicken stays moist, but the texture of the batter may soften over time, so reheat accordingly.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken without sauce for up to one month. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before adding fresh sauce and reheating for best results. This way, you maintain crispness and flavor.
Reheating
To revive the crispy texture, reheat leftovers in a hot oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 8 to 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the chicken from becoming soggy. Add the sauce fresh or reheat it separately to maintain that perfect balance.
FAQs
Can I substitute chicken breast with another protein?
Absolutely! While chicken breast is ideal for its tenderness and lean quality, you can try boneless chicken thighs for extra juiciness, or even tofu for a vegetarian take. Just adjust frying time accordingly.
Is rice flour necessary for the batter?
Rice flour contributes to the signature light and crispy texture that’s hard to achieve with just wheat flour alone. However, if you can’t find it, using all-purpose flour may work but expect a different texture.
How spicy is this dish?
The Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken Recipe carries a moderate heat from sriracha and chili flakes, balanced by sweet and tangy notes. You can easily adjust the level of spice by reducing or increasing the sriracha and chili flakes.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes! The spicy soy-sherry sauce can be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. This actually helps the flavors meld together even better. Just give it a good stir before using.
What’s the best oil for frying this dish?
Neutral oils with a high smoke point like canola or vegetable oil work best. They ensure even frying without imparting unwanted flavors or burning during cooking.
Final Thoughts
If you want to bring a burst of flavor and texture into your kitchen, the Cheesecake Factory’s Spicy Cashew Chicken Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s one of those dishes that excites the palate and delights the senses, making every meal feel like a special occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how satisfying homemade restaurant favorites can be.
