Aunt Lee'S Chinese Chicken Casserole
A comforting Chinese chicken casserole with tender chicken, crunchy water chestnuts, and crispy noodles, topped with nuts—perfect for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of chicken soup, one can of water, mayonnaise, and lemon juice together in a bowl.
- Add the cooked and diced chicken breasts, sliced water chestnuts, chop suey vegetables, chopped celery, and Chinese noodles to the mixture. Mix thoroughly.
- Pour the mixture into a long, shallow baking dish.
- Top with chopped cashew nuts or sliced almonds.
- Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also substitute the cream of chicken soup with a homemade version using chicken broth and a roux. If you want extra flavor, add a teaspoon of soy sauce or sesame oil to the mixture. This dish can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins, making it versatile among Chinese recipes.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is best served warm and pairs beautifully with steamed rice or a side salad for a complete meal. Consider offering egg rolls or spring rolls as an appetizer to complement the flavors. For a refreshing side, try a simple cucumber salad to balance the richness of the casserole.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Lee'S Chinese Chicken Casserole contains roughly 687 calories, with 32g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 52g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1158mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of canned chop suey vegetables?
Yes, frozen vegetables work well in this casserole! Just make sure to thaw and drain them before adding to the mixture, as excess moisture can affect the texture. This swap not only enhances the flavor but also increases the nutritional value of the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole a day in advance, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I substitute for chicken breasts?
You can use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker option or even diced turkey. If you want a vegetarian version, consider using tofu or a mix of hearty vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers, which can create a satisfying texture and flavor in this casserole.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).