Keto Cashew Chicken

Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/2 cup raw cashews
• 2 tbsp avocado oil or olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 small bell pepper, diced (optional)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or coconut aminos (for keto-friendly option)
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp sugar-free ketchup or tomato paste
• 1/2 tsp xanthan gum (for thickening)
• 1/4 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:
   Season the chicken pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Toast the Cashews:
   In a large skillet or wok, dry-toast the cashews over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant. Remove and set aside.
3. Cook the Chicken:
   Heat 1 tbsp of avocado oil in the same skillet. Add the chicken and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
4. Sauté Vegetables:
   Add the remaining oil to the skillet, followed by garlic, onion, and bell pepper. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened.
5. Make the Sauce:
   In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar-free ketchup, and chicken broth. Add xanthan gum and mix well to avoid lumps.
6. Combine Everything:
   Return the chicken to the skillet. Pour the sauce over the chicken and vegetables. Stir well and let it simmer for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens.
7. Add Cashews:
   Stir in the toasted cashews and cook for another minute.
8. Garnish and Serve:
   Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve hot with cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a keto-friendly meal.