Chicken in Tomato-Cashew Sauce with Fresh Cream

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Tender chicken pieces simmered in a fragrant tomato-cashew sauce with aromatic spices and a velvety finish from fresh cream. This indian-inspired chicken ready in about 45 minutes blends Chicken thighs, medium (200g) Tomatoes, Cashews into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 400 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 25 min Serves 4 Indian cuisine 400 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Heat 2 tbsp cooking oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add 450g chicken thighs and cook for 5 minutes until golden brown on all sides.
  2. Step 2: Add 80g finely chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 inch grated ginger. Cook for 3 minutes until onion softens.
  3. Step 3: Add 200g chopped tomatoes, 1 tsp cumin powder, 1 tsp coriander powder, and 1/4 tsp turmeric. Cook for 7 minutes until tomatoes break down and oil separates.
  4. Step 4: Stir in 30g cashews and cook for 2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Step 5: Add 60ml fresh cream, salt to taste, and 1/2 cup water. Simmer for 15 minutes on low heat until chicken is tender and sauce thickens.
  6. Step 6: Remove from heat and serve hot with naan or steamed rice.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Chicken in Tomato-Cashew Sauce with Fresh Cream take to make?

Total time is about 45 minutes (20 min prep + 25 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Chicken in Tomato-Cashew Sauce with Fresh Cream?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Chicken in Tomato-Cashew Sauce with Fresh Cream?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Chicken in Tomato-Cashew Sauce with Fresh Cream for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Chicken in Tomato-Cashew Sauce with Fresh Cream?

Indian chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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