CHICKEN, CASHEWS, RED PEPPER AND SCALLION STIR FRY

Steps:

• Now, it looks like a lot, but it is very easy. Just start each step and honestly it doesn't take any time.
• Chicken Marinade -- In a small bowl, add the egg white, corn starch and soy sauce and whisk well. Add the chicken and toss well to combine. Just set off to the side on the counter. The chicken will come to room temp as it marinates. I like to let it set 30-45 minutes. This gives you time to prepare everything else.
• Cashews -- This only takes a few minutes. In the same large pan you are going to cook the chicken in (I prefer non stick), add the oil and bring to medium heat. Add the cashews and cook 2-3 minutes until golden brown (stirring often). Once they are done, remove to a plate lined with a paper towel to drain. They don't need chopping, so they are ready to go. Wipe out the pan as you will be using this to make the chicken.
• Sauce -- In a small bowl or even a measuring cup, add the chicken broth, soy sauce, sherry wine, sugar, red pepper flakes and set to the side. Don't add the scallions yet.
• Rice -- Start the rice as the chicken only takes a few minutes to cook. I use a quick cooking rice, but feel free to use your favorite. Right at the end of cooking, add in the water chestnuts. I make this ahead and just cover and set off to the side.
• Chicken -- Time to stir fry! This is quick so make sure you have the sauce nearby, the cashews and the rice is done. Heat that large pan up one more time. Now a wok is great if you have one, but not necessary. Add 1 tablespoon each peanut (or whatever you have) and sesame oil (don't leave out the sesame oil (it gives this dish great flavor) and bring to medium/high heat - high heat. Scoop the chicken out of the marinade, but use a slotted spoon, you don't want to get extra marinade in the pan. You can also strain it in a colander if you want. A slotted spoon works great and much easier. Add it to the hot oil and stir fry on each side until golden brown. It won't take more than 4-5 min tops. They cook very quick and you don't want to over cook them.
• Right before they are done, add in the scallions, red pepper strips and cashews. Stir to combine and then add in the sauce. Cook just a minute or two until the sauce is bubbly and thick. The pepper will still be a bit crunchy but tender and the chicken will be tender and done.
• NOTE: If you like the sauce a bit thicker, mix 1 teaspoon cold water with 1 teaspoon corn starch and add to the dish. And cook just a minute -- this will thicken it up quickly.
• Serve -- Just top this wonderful chicken and sauce over the water chestnut rice. As I mentioned, I love a Napa cabbage salad with carrots and a sesame dressing for a side, but add your favorites. This really may look like a lot, but they are all simple steps. Just follow the steps for a quick nice dinner. ENJOY!
• Note: Time to make includes marinating.