Crockpot Cashew Chicken
There’s something so comforting about coming home to the aroma of something amazing bubbling away in your crockpot, right? This Saucy Slow-Cooker Cashew Bliss Chicken is that kind of meal—the kind that hugs you from the inside out. It’s sticky, savory, slightly sweet, and packed with tender chicken and crunchy roasted cashews in a bold Asian-inspired sauce. Imagine fluffy rice soaking up all that goodness while you take a bite of juicy chicken coated in a glossy, garlicky glaze. Trust me, you’re going to love this. It’s bold enough to impress dinner guests but simple enough for a Tuesday night in sweatpants. Let’s get into the delicious details!
Why You’ll Love Saucy Slow-Cooker Cashew Bliss Chicken
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Perfect for busy weeknights or as a standout dish at gatherings. Imagine coming home after a long day, knowing you can whip up something delicious and comforting in no time.
Budget-Friendly: Uses ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. No need for exotic items—just honest, everyday staples turned extraordinary.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward steps that even beginners can follow. No fuss, no stress.
Customizable: Want it spicier? Add chili flakes. Need it gluten-free? Swap the soy sauce. It’s yours to play with.
Crowd-Pleasing: Adults love the savory sauce, kids adore the sweetness, and everyone fights over the crunchy cashews.

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Ingredients in Saucy Slow-Cooker Cashew Bliss Chicken
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Chicken Thighs
Tender and flavorful, these cook down into juicy perfection in the slow cooker, soaking up every drop of the sauce.
Cornstarch
This helps coat the chicken and thicken the sauce to a gorgeous, glossy finish.
Soy Sauce
The base of that umami-packed flavor. It brings the salty, savory depth that balances the sweetness.
Hoisin Sauce
Adds a touch of sweetness and richness that makes the sauce irresistible.
Rice Vinegar
Brings a gentle tang that brightens up the flavors without overpowering.
Honey
For that subtle sweetness that caramelizes slightly during cooking. It’s the perfect counterbalance to the soy and garlic.
Garlic and Ginger
Aromatics that elevate the dish with warmth, spice, and a hint of zing.
Roasted Cashews
The namesake crunch! Add these at the end so they stay crisp and nutty.
Green Onions
A fresh pop of color and mild bite to finish everything off just right.
Instructions
Coat the Chicken
Toss the chicken thighs in cornstarch to give them a light coating. This step helps create that thick, crave-worthy sauce later on.
Mix the Sauce
In a small bowl, stir together soy sauce, hoisin, rice vinegar, honey, garlic, and ginger. Smell that? That’s flavor heaven already happening.
Load the Slow Cooker
Place the coated chicken into your crockpot. Pour the sauce mixture over top and toss gently to ensure every piece gets coated.
Cook Low and Slow
Set your slow cooker on low for 3–4 hours, or high for 1.5–2 hours. You want the chicken to be fall-apart tender and drenched in that sticky sauce.
Add Cashews
About 10 minutes before serving, toss in your roasted cashews so they warm through but stay delightfully crunchy.
Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with chopped green onions and serve over rice, noodles, or even steamed veggies. Get ready for second helpings.
How to Serve Saucy Slow-Cooker Cashew Bliss Chicken
Over Steamed Rice: Fluffy jasmine or basmati rice is perfect for soaking up every drop of sauce.
With Noodles: Toss it with lo mein or ramen noodles for a fun twist.
Wrapped in Lettuce: Serve it in butter lettuce cups for a fresh, low-carb option.
On a Bowl: Create a cozy grain bowl with quinoa, shredded cabbage, and a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
As Leftovers: Trust me, it’s just as good (maybe even better) the next day!
Additional Tips
Make it Spicy: A splash of chili oil or a few red pepper flakes adds the perfect kick.
Crispier Cashews: Toast your cashews before adding them for an even bolder flavor.
Double Up: This freezes beautifully—perfect for meal prep or surprise guests.
Go Gluten-Free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.
Veggie Boost: Add bell peppers, broccoli, or snow peas for color and crunch.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Just note that breasts may be slightly less juicy, so keep an eye on cooking time.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Definitely—prep the sauce and chicken the night before and refrigerate. Pop it in the slow cooker the next morning!
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: Yes! Freeze in portions and reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat this dish?
A5: In a pan over medium heat or in the microwave—just stir occasionally to heat evenly.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: You sure can! Just make sure your slow cooker can handle the volume.
Q7: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
A7: Yes, just swap in gluten-free soy sauce or tamari.
Q8: What sides go best with this?
A8: Think rice, sautéed greens, roasted broccoli, or sesame noodles.
Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: Use low-sodium soy sauce, reduce the honey slightly, and add more veggies.
Q10: What cookware is best for this recipe?
A10: A 4–6 quart slow cooker works perfectly—ceramic insert if possible for even heat.
Certainly! Here’s a warm and inviting conclusion section for your Crockpot Cashew Chicken recipe post, keeping with your tone and formatting preferences:
Conclusion
There you have it, friend—your new weeknight hero: Crockpot Cashew Chicken! It’s the kind of dish that practically makes itself while you go about your day, and when it’s finally time to eat, the flavor payoff is chef’s kiss. Tender chicken, that savory-sweet sauce, the buttery crunch of cashews—every bite is a little celebration.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry crew or just looking to spice up your dinner routine, this one delivers big-time. And the best part? It’s one of those recipes that’ll have people thinking you really know your way around the kitchen (even if your secret weapon is just a slow cooker).
So go ahead—bookmark it, share it, make it again and again. Trust me, you’re going to love this
Print
Crockpot Cashew Chicken
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 hours
- Total Time: 5 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
Description
Tender chicken, crunchy cashews, and crisp sugar snap peas come together in this easy Crockpot Cashew Chicken—your new favorite weeknight comfort meal! Simmered in savory teriyaki sauce and effortlessly made in the slow cooker, this dish is packed with flavor, texture, and satisfying goodness. #CrockpotCashewChicken #EasyDinners #SlowCookerMeals
Ingredients
Chicken and Sauce:
- 2 lbs chicken tenderloins
- 1 cup teriyaki marinade and sauce
Vegetables and Add-Ins:
- 1 (9-ounce) package frozen sugar snap peas (or veggie of your choice), thawed
- 1 cup cashews (can substitute with water chestnuts or peanuts)
Instructions
- Place chicken tenderloins in the crockpot.
- Pour teriyaki marinade and sauce over the chicken.
- Cover and cook on low for 4–5 hours or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
- Add thawed sugar snap peas and cashews during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Stir well before serving. Serve over rice or noodles if desired.
Notes
- For extra flavor, sear the chicken briefly before adding it to the crockpot.
- Add crushed red pepper or chili garlic sauce for a spicy kick.
- Frozen stir-fry vegetable blends make great substitutes for sugar snap peas.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 42g
- Cholesterol: 105mg