Red Curry Chicken Stir Fry with Spicy Cashew Sauce Better Than Takeout

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Red curry chicken stir fry with spicy cashew sauce is a vibrant, flavor-packed dish inspired by Thai cuisine. It combines tender chicken, crisp vegetables, aromatic red curry paste, and a rich cashew-based sauce that’s creamy, nutty, and just the right amount of spicy.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something exciting but still easy to make. Everything comes together in one pan, and the result tastes like your favorite restaurant stir fry—only fresher and more customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This red curry chicken stir fry is a favorite because it’s:

  • Ready in about 30 minutes

  • Creamy without heavy cream

  • Packed with bold Thai-inspired flavors

  • Customizable for spice level

  • Great for meal prep

  • Naturally gluten-free (with simple swaps)

It’s fast, flavorful, and satisfying.

Ingredients for Red Curry Chicken Stir Fry

For the Stir Fry

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable or avocado oil

  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced

  • 1 cup broccoli florets

  • 1 small onion, sliced

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated

For the Spicy Cashew Sauce

  • ½ cup raw cashews (soaked 15 minutes)

  • ¾ cup coconut milk

  • 1½ tablespoons red curry paste

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari

  • 1 teaspoon lime juice

  • 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar

  • ½ teaspoon chili flakes (adjust to taste)

Optional Garnishes

  • Chopped roasted cashews

  • Fresh cilantro

  • Lime wedges

  • Sliced green onions

How to Make Red Curry Chicken Stir Fry

Step 1: Make the Spicy Cashew Sauce

Drain soaked cashews and add them to a blender with coconut milk, red curry paste, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, and chili flakes. Blend until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken and cook for 4–5 minutes until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove from pan and set aside.

Step 3: Stir Fry the Vegetables

In the same pan, add onion, bell pepper, and broccoli. Stir fry for 3–4 minutes until crisp-tender. Add garlic and ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Return chicken to the pan. Pour in the spicy cashew sauce and stir well to coat everything evenly. Reduce heat and let simmer for 3–5 minutes until thick and glossy.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Taste the stir fry and adjust seasoning—add more lime for brightness, chili flakes for heat, or soy sauce for saltiness.

Best Chicken Cuts for Stir Fry

Boneless, skinless chicken breast works well, but you can also use:

  • Chicken thighs for extra juiciness

  • Leftover cooked chicken

  • Shrimp or tofu as substitutes

Thin slicing ensures fast, even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve red curry chicken stir fry with:

  • Steamed jasmine rice

  • Coconut rice

  • Brown rice

  • Rice noodles or cauliflower rice

Tips for the Best Red Curry Stir Fry

  • Slice chicken against the grain

  • Prep all ingredients before cooking

  • Don’t overcook vegetables—they should stay crisp

  • Use full-fat coconut milk for best texture

  • Adjust spice gradually

These tips guarantee a restaurant-quality stir fry at home.

Healthy Variations

Make this dish fit your lifestyle with easy swaps:

  • Low-Carb: Serve over cauliflower rice

  • Vegan: Use tofu or chickpeas instead of chicken

  • Extra Veggies: Add snap peas, carrots, or zucchini

  • Milder Version: Reduce curry paste and chili flakes

  • Extra Protein: Add edamame or extra cashews

Make-Ahead, Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days

  • Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave

  • Sauce thickens in the fridge—add a splash of water or coconut milk

  • Not recommended for freezing due to cashew sauce texture

Great for lunch meal prep.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is red curry paste very spicy?
It’s moderately spicy, but heat levels vary by brand.

Can I use peanut butter instead of cashews?
Yes, but cashews create a smoother, milder sauce.

Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, when using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce.

Final Thoughts

Red curry chicken stir fry with spicy cashew sauce is bold, creamy, and incredibly satisfying. With its perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and nuttiness, this dish delivers big flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re craving Thai-inspired comfort food or need a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a repeat favorite.

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