Mediterranean Stir Fry Celery with Grilled Chicken and Cashew Nuts: A Delightful Recipe
Mediterranean Stir Fry Celery with Grilled Chicken and Cashew Nuts is a light yet satisfying dish that brings together crisp vegetables, tender chicken, and the rich crunch of toasted cashews. While stir fry is often associated with Asian cooking, this version leans into Mediterranean simplicity by focusing on clean flavors, good olive oil techniques, and balanced seasoning. The result is a fresh, fast meal that feels nourishing without being heavy.
Celery might not always be the star ingredient, but when cooked quickly at high heat, it becomes mildly sweet and pleasantly crunchy. Paired with marinated chicken thighs and buttery cashews, it turns into a surprisingly crave-worthy dish. This recipe is ideal for busy evenings, meal prep lunches, or anytime you want something quick that still feels thoughtfully cooked.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Servings: 3 to 4
Ingredients
For the Dish
14 oz boneless chicken thighs (about 400 grams)
3 cloves garlic, minced
10 1/2 oz celery (about 300 grams), sliced on the bias
1 teaspoon rice wine
1/2 cup unsalted cashews
Green onions, chopped, as needed
For the Marinade
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions
Cut the chicken thighs into bite-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
Add all the marinade ingredients to the chicken and mix well until evenly coated. Let marinate for at least 10 minutes.
Wash the celery thoroughly and slice it into even pieces, about 2 to 3 inches long.
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and lightly toast the cashews until golden. Remove and set aside.
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pan or wok over medium-high heat.
Add the marinated chicken and cook until lightly browned and cooked through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
In the same pan, add a bit more oil if needed, then add the minced garlic. Stir quickly until fragrant.
Add the celery and stir fry for 2 to 3 minutes until crisp-tender.
Return the chicken to the pan, add the rice wine, and toss everything together.
Add the toasted cashews and green onions, stir well, and remove from heat. Serve immediately.
Tips
Slice celery evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
Chicken thighs stay juicier than breasts, especially in quick stir fries.
Do not over-marinate, as the chicken can become too salty.
Toast cashews separately to avoid burning them during stir frying.
Keep the heat high to maintain a crisp texture in the celery.
Stir constantly once garlic hits the pan to prevent bitterness.
Use a wide pan to avoid steaming the ingredients.
Prep all ingredients before cooking since stir fry moves fast.
Taste before serving and adjust salt carefully.
Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.
Variations
Add sliced bell peppers for extra color and sweetness.
Replace cashews with almonds or pine nuts.
Add a splash of lemon juice for a Mediterranean brightness.
Include mushrooms for a deeper savory flavor.
Use chicken breast if you prefer leaner protein.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
Toss in cherry tomatoes at the end for freshness.
Use tamari instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.
Add a drizzle of olive oil before serving for richness.
Serve over quinoa or brown rice for a heartier meal.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
It is best fresh, but leftovers keep well for up to two days refrigerated.
Does celery stay crunchy?
Yes, when stir fried quickly, it remains crisp-tender.
Can I skip the rice wine?
Yes, you can use a splash of broth or water instead.
Is this dish spicy?
No, it is mild unless you add chili flakes.
Can I use raw cashews?
Yes, just toast them before adding.
What pan works best?
A wok or large skillet works equally well.
Can I add more sauce?
You can add a tablespoon of chicken broth if you prefer it saucier.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and balanced.
Can I freeze it?
Freezing is not recommended as celery loses texture.
What can I serve with it?
It pairs well with rice, flatbread, or a simple Mediterranean salad.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 360
Protein: 27g
Fat: 22g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 2g
Conclusion
Mediterranean Stir Fry Celery with Grilled Chicken and Cashew Nuts is proof that simple ingredients can deliver impressive results when treated well. The contrast between tender chicken, crunchy celery, and toasted cashews makes every bite interesting and satisfying. It is quick enough for weeknights, flexible enough for variations, and light enough to enjoy year-round. Once you try celery cooked this way, it may just become a regular part of your cooking routine.