Springfield-style cashew chicken is a legendary American-Chinese dish that perfectly bridges rich, savory flavors with an unforgettable crispy texture. Born in Springfield, Missouri, this dish was created by Chinese immigrant chef David Leong in the mid-20th century to introduce local diners to authentic Chinese culinary elements using familiar, comforting textures. Today, Springfield-style cashew chicken remains a beloved staple, celebrated for its golden-fried chicken pieces, velvety brown sauce, and crunch of toasted cashews.
Ingredients
For the Crispy Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 3/4 cup cold milk or ice water
- Vegetable oil for deep frying
For the Savory Brown Sauce
