Meta Info
Servings: 4
Total Time: 30 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Calories per Serving: Approximately 285 calories
Macros (Approximate):
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 14g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
A Lighter Sweet Chili Chicken That’s Big on Flavor
If you’re craving a takeout-style dinner without the extra calories, this Weight Watchers Sweet Chili Cashew Chicken delivers all the sticky, savory-sweet goodness you love in a healthier way. Tender chicken pieces are coated in a rich, flavorful sauce and finished with crunchy cashews for the perfect balance of texture and taste.
This slimming-friendly chicken recipe is ideal for anyone following Weight Watchers, Slimming World, or simply looking for healthy recipes that don’t sacrifice flavor. With lean protein, simple ingredients, and a lighter homemade sauce, it’s a satisfying option for busy weeknights.
Best of all, this easy dinner idea comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for meal prep, family dinners, and healthy eating goals.
Look at the Recipe
- Tender chicken coated in a glossy sweet and savory sauce with crunchy cashews.
- Delicious balance of garlic, chili, soy, and subtle sweetness.
- High in protein and lighter than traditional takeout versions.
Ingredients Needed
For the Chicken
- 1 lb (450g) skinless chicken breast, diced
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch
- Cooking spray
For the Sauce
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 3 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- ¼ cup chicken stock
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
To Finish
- ¼ cup cashews, roughly chopped
- 2 spring onions, sliced
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
How to Make Our Weight Watchers Sweet Chili Cashew Chicken
- Coat the diced chicken with the cornstarch and set aside.
- Spray a large non-stick skillet or wok with cooking spray and heat over medium-high heat.
- Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes until golden and cooked through. Remove and set aside.
- Add the garlic and ginger to the same pan and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Whisk together the soy sauce, sweet chili sauce, rice vinegar, tomato paste, chicken stock, and sesame oil.
- Pour the sauce into the pan and simmer for 2–3 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Return the chicken to the pan and toss until fully coated in the sauce.
- Stir in most of the cashews and spring onions, reserving a few for garnish.
- Serve immediately topped with fresh cilantro and the remaining cashews.
This healthy chicken recipe pairs beautifully with steamed vegetables, cauliflower rice, or fluffy jasmine rice depending on your Weight Watchers points budget.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storing
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until heated through.
Freezing
Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Ideas
- Cauliflower rice for a lower-point option
- Steamed broccoli or green beans
- Stir-fried vegetables
- Brown rice for extra fiber
- Slimming-friendly egg-fried rice
Tips & FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes. Chicken thighs provide extra flavor, but may increase calories and Weight Watchers points.
How can I make this even lower in points?
Reduce the cashews slightly and use a sugar-free sweet chili sauce if available.
Is this recipe good for meal prep?
Absolutely. The flavors develop nicely overnight, making it a great meal-prep recipe.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Yes. Swap the chicken for firm tofu or a plant-based chicken alternative.
Why is my sauce too thin?
Allow it to simmer a little longer, or mix 1 teaspoon cornstarch with water and stir it into the sauce.
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