Baked Chow Mein Chicken
Baked Chow Mein Chicken offers a delightful combination of tender chicken breasts coated in a savory soy-ginger glaze, topped with crunchy crushed noodles and almonds. Perfect for a flavorful dinner, it pairs well with rice or vegetables, making it a satisfying and easy-to-prepare main dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Place chow mein noodles in a plastic storage bag and crush them.
- Combine crushed noodles and chopped blanched almonds in a shallow dish.
- Melt butter or margarine in the microwave.
- Add soy sauce, chopped fresh ginger, and ground black pepper to the melted butter; stir to combine.
- Dip each chicken breast in the butter mixture, then roll in the noodle and almond mixture.
- Gently press the noodle mixture onto the chicken breasts.
- Lay the coated chicken breasts in the bottom of a 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding some sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or snap peas to the dish for added color and nutrition. You can substitute the chicken with tofu for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a crunchier topping, bake the dish uncovered for the last 10 minutes. Also, try using rice noodles instead of chow mein noodles for a different texture.
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Chow Mein Chicken pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal. For a side dish, consider serving a light stir-fried vegetable medley, which complements the flavors of the chicken. You can also serve it with a dipping sauce for extra flavor or alongside your favorite Chinese recipes for a themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the chicken in a baking dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions on medium heat until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Baked Chow Mein Chicken contains roughly 725 calories, with 26g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 56g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (52% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1512mg per serving (66% 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 chicken breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken breasts, but it's essential to thaw them completely before preparing the dish. This ensures even cooking and helps the coating adhere better. Consider placing the frozen chicken in the fridge overnight to thaw or using the defrost function on your microwave for quicker results.
What can I substitute for blanched almonds?
If you don't have blanched almonds, you can use chopped cashews or walnuts for a different flavor and texture. Alternatively, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can provide a nut-free option while still adding a satisfying crunch to the dish.
How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the breast. Additionally, the juices should run clear when pierced with a fork, indicating that the chicken is safe to eat.
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).