The caramelization process happens really quickly with the brown sugar and curry paste. I wonder if you browned the chicken first and then pushed the chicken to the side while you added the curry/sugar, it might work better. The water to the bottom of the pan is not optional, I probably added 1/4 cup. Also added a touch of sweet chili sauce to the cashew sauce. 9/10- Super good! And quick.
Used paprika and chili powder instead of taco seasoning. Used 2 Tbsp canned chipotle peppers instead of chipotle powder. Didn’t add salsa to the chicken. Made sauce with just mayo, 2 Tbsp canned chipotle peppers, lime juice and salt.