Celeste'S Chicken Chow Mein
Creamy chicken chow mein with crunchy almonds and savory flavors, perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner that combines tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich sauce over noodles.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped onion and chopped celery until tender.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup and chicken stock; heat to boiling.
- In a small bowl, combine cornstarch, lemon juice, and soy sauce; mix until smooth.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the soup and cook until thickened.
- Add diced chicken and toasted sliced almonds to the sauce; cook until heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Pour the chicken mixture over cooked chow mein noodles and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider using half-and-half instead of chicken stock. You can also substitute the toasted sliced almonds with cashews for a different flavor. If you're looking for a quicker option, pre-cooked rotisserie chicken can save time. This recipe can also be easily adapted to include other vegetables, such as bell peppers or snow peas, for added color and nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chicken chow mein over cooked chow mein noodles or rice for a hearty meal. Pair it with a side of Lumpia, Pampango Style (Vegetable Spring Rolls) for a complete Asian-inspired dinner. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple cucumber salad on the side. This dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the sauce if it thickens. This dish can also be reheated in the microwave, but stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Celeste'S Chicken Chow Mein contains roughly 1212 calories, with 30g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value), protein (60% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1310mg per serving (57% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and sauce in advance, and store them separately. Reheat the sauce and add freshly cooked noodles just before serving for the best texture. This helps maintain the noodles' integrity and ensures they don't become soggy.
What can I use instead of chicken?
You can easily substitute the chicken with tofu or shrimp for a vegetarian or seafood version of this dish. Ensure the cooking times are adjusted accordingly, as tofu should be cooked until golden, while shrimp cooks quickly and should be added towards the end.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Absolutely! This chicken chow mein is great for meal prepping. Divide it into individual portions and store them in meal prep containers. It reheats well and maintains its flavor, making it a convenient choice for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
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).